A ranching dog in the city

[rockymtngirl]

So we found this dog several weeks ago and have ID'd her as a red queensland heeler. We still live in the suburbs and, based on her behavior, we are wondering if it's such a good idea. We do have a very large back yard - probably around 8000 sq ft - but she seems a little frustrated like she would rather be somewhere herding some cows or sheep. she really is sweet and we have grown to really love her in this short time, but wondering if we are really doing her a disservice keeping her in the 'burbs. Any one have experience with this type of dog?

Thanks - Kirstin

[Deberosa]

Our dog is part heeler, part Aussie. They certainly do best on a farm, but I have also seen many people in the city with heelers and no problem. I met a gentleman at a flea market who was in a wheelchair. His heeler road on his lap. I had to comment because of our heeler and he said they are inseperable.

Around here there are farms that cater to herding dogs where you can take your dog to do herding. They have all varieties of herding - ducks, sheep, cows, etc. I have a friend who takes her border collie to one regularly for her "fix". Another thing is agility training - Don't know if you remember the famous heeler - Skidboot? That dog was truely amazing.

Oh, and they will herd their people too. ;-) Jake will constantly try to get us to be together if we are too far apart. He herds his new kittens too. They are really cool dogs.

[rockymtngirl]

Thanks Deberosa! We had actually discussed setting up an agility area for her in the back yard. I don't think it would be that hard to do- and maybe it would keep her a little happier ;)

[Deberosa]

You are welcome. I have found that breed to be a very sensitive dog. She may just be adjusting to the changes in her life. Jake hates change of any kind - move his crate one foot to the side and he is upset, used to be we could not get him into the car until we literally dragged him in a couple of times and now he's the first one in ready for a ride! She may adjust once she knows the routine. It's a very smart breed of dog.

Jake doesn't seem to need to be constantly active - he is perfectly happy snoozing under my desk while I work. Now if he was a full bred aussie or border collie that would never happen I don't think!

Can you tell I really like the heeler breed? ;-)