Blue Heeler Mixes: Meet 21 Amazing Australian Cattle Dog Crossbreeds

Known for their boundless energy and exceptional herding abilities, Blue Heelers, or Australian Cattle Dogs (ACDs), have long been prized as hardworking ranch dogs. These loyal and sturdy dogs are also called Hall’s Heelers, Queensland Heelers, or Australian Heelers. While originally bred to handle tough cattle-driving tasks across vast stretches of Australia, Blue Heelers have since made their way into many homes as beloved companion animals.

But Blue Heelers aren’t just popular as purebreds—they’re also commonly crossbred to produce some unique and versatile hybrids. If you’re thinking about a Blue Heeler mix, this guide introduces 21 popular crossbreeds that combine the best of the Blue Heeler’s attributes with the unique traits of other breeds.

What Is a Blue Heeler?

Blue Heelers are known for their striking blue-speckled or mottled coats and energetic personalities. Interestingly, these dogs are born white and only develop their famous blue coloring as they grow. Some variations, like the Red Heeler, share similar traits but have red or tan coats. These tough dogs were initially developed by Australian ranchers in the 19th century by crossing Dingoes with Dalmatians and Collies to produce a breed capable of herding cattle in harsh conditions.

The result? A fiercely loyal, medium-sized working dog with an insatiable drive to work. While these dogs can make excellent companions, their high energy and independent nature mean they’re not suitable for everyone. To channel that energy, Blue Heelers are often crossbred with more even-tempered dogs, producing hybrids that retain their loyalty and work ethic while adding traits that make them better suited for family life.

21 Popular Blue Heeler Mixes

Each Blue Heeler mix offers something unique, from intelligence to loyalty to distinct appearance. Here’s a list of some of the most popular Blue Heeler crossbreeds and what you can expect from each.

1. Labrador Blue Heeler Mix (Labraheeler)

The Labrador Retriever’s friendly nature softens the Blue Heeler’s high-energy drive, making the Labraheeler an ideal family dog. These dogs are loyal to their families but may be reserved with strangers. With the athleticism of both parents, this mix requires regular exercise and is perfect for active families. Labraheelers typically weigh between 30 and 80 pounds.

2. Border Collie Blue Heeler Mix (Border Heeler)

The Border Heeler, a mix of two renowned herding breeds, is incredibly intelligent and hardworking. This high-energy hybrid loves to stay active, whether herding, running, or playing. With a weight range of 30 to 55 pounds, Border Heelers are agile, protective, and make excellent companions for experienced dog owners.

3. Pitbull Blue Heeler Mix (Pit Heeler)

Combining the Pitbull’s affectionate nature with the Blue Heeler’s loyalty, the Pit Heeler is an energetic dog that needs consistent training. Known for their protective instincts and muscular build, Pit Heelers make fantastic watchdogs and can weigh up to 24 inches in height.

4. Siberian Husky Blue Heeler Mix (Ausky)

The Ausky is a striking blend of Australian Cattle Dog and Siberian Husky, resulting in a dog with both beauty and energy to spare. However, their high prey drive and energetic nature require a lot of socialization and exercise to prevent destructive tendencies.

5. German Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix (Cattle Shepherd)

The Cattle Shepherd is a strong and protective breed, not suited for novice owners. Their high intelligence and guarding instincts make them excellent protectors, though they require plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Cattle Shepherds can weigh between 30 and 95 pounds.

6. Corgi Blue Heeler Mix (Corgi Heeler)

With the adorable short legs of a Corgi and the Blue Heeler’s spirited energy, the Corgi Heeler is a compact and lively breed. This mix retains the herding instincts of both parents, making it a vigilant and fun-loving companion.

7. Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix (Texas Heeler)

The Texas Heeler is a natural herder and an energetic family dog. Known for their loyalty and intelligence, Texas Heelers need ample space and stimulation. They weigh between 25 and 50 pounds and have coats that come in various colors, including black, merle, and brown.

8. Beagle Blue Heeler Mix (Beagle Heeler)

The Beagle Heeler combines the curiosity of a Beagle with the loyalty of a Blue Heeler. Known for their adventurous nature, Beagle Heelers may tend to wander, so secure yards are a must. They are medium-sized with droopy ears and a charming mix of Beagle and Blue Heeler features.

9. Boxer Blue Heeler Mix (Box Heeler)

The Box Heeler is a friendly, protective hybrid. With the Boxer’s patient nature, this mix is more tolerant of small children than a typical Blue Heeler. They stand about 25 inches tall and have a short, manageable coat.

10. Shih Tzu Blue Heeler Mix (Blue Tzu Heeler)

This adorable crossbreed pairs the small, cuddly Shih Tzu with the hardworking Blue Heeler. Known for their charming looks and playful personalities, Blue Tzu Heelers make excellent companion dogs, especially for families looking for a smaller breed.

11. Dalmatian Blue Heeler Mix (Dalmatian Heeler)

The Dalmatian Heeler has a striking coat and a high-energy personality. These dogs are best suited for experienced owners due to their intense need for attention and high maintenance in training.

12. Shar Pei Blue Heeler Mix (Heeler Pei)

The Heeler Pei combines the protective Shar Pei with the energetic Blue Heeler, creating a vigilant and devoted companion. Their independent nature requires consistent training and socialization to prevent guarding issues.

13. American Eskimo Blue Heeler Mix (Aussimo)

Aussimos are affectionate and wary of strangers, often devoted to their families. With the silky coat of the American Eskimo, this mix requires regular grooming and benefits from early socialization.

14. Boston Terrier Blue Heeler Mix (Boston Cattle Dog)

Boston Cattle Dogs are spritely and sturdy, thanks to the Boston Terrier’s lively personality. This mix requires an owner who can handle their high-energy nature and prevent stubborn behaviors.

15. Bernese Mountain Dog Blue Heeler Mix (Bernese Cattle Dog)

This mix combines the gentle Bernese Mountain Dog with the hardworking Blue Heeler, resulting in a friendly and easy-to-train hybrid. With proper care, Bernese Cattle Dogs are great family pets and bond well with children.

16. Basset Hound Blue Heeler Mix (Basset Heeler)

The Basset Heeler is an unusual mix with floppy ears and a muscular build. Known for their protective instincts, Basset Heelers need early socialization and firm training to thrive.

17. Cocker Spaniel Blue Heeler Mix (Blue Cocker Spaniel)

This cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Blue Heeler has a soft, wavy coat and a people-loving nature. However, they may develop protective tendencies, making consistent training essential.

18. Poodle Blue Heeler Mix (Blue Cadoodle)

Known as the Cattle Doodle, this rare hybrid inherits intelligence from the Poodle and the work ethic of a Blue Heeler. Blue Cadoodles can vary in size, depending on the Poodle parent.

19. Golden Retriever Blue Heeler Mix (Golden Cattle Dog)

Golden Cattle Dogs inherit the friendly temperament of the Golden Retriever and the agility of the Blue Heeler, making them ideal for active families who love to spend time outdoors.

20. Dachshund Blue Heeler Mix (Doxie Heeler)

This small but spirited mix combines the long body of a Dachshund with the energetic nature of a Blue Heeler. Doxie Heelers are playful and loving but require patience during training.

21. Rottweiler Blue Heeler Mix (Blueweiler)

The Blueweiler has a strong herding instinct and an affectionate nature. These large dogs make excellent watchdogs but need plenty of space to exercise.

Tips for Choosing the Right Blue Heeler Mix

When choosing a Blue Heeler mix, consider the following:

• Energy Level: Blue Heelers are high-energy dogs, so ensure you have time for daily exercise.
• Space Requirements: Many Blue Heeler mixes need ample room to roam.
• Temperament: Each mix will have a unique temperament, so choose a mix that fits your lifestyle.

Conclusion: Which Blue Heeler Mix Is Right for You?

Whether you’re drawn to the playful Labraheeler, the protective Blueweiler, or the energetic Border Heeler, there’s a Blue Heeler mix for every type of dog lover. Whatever mix you choose, you can look forward to a loyal and active companion who’s always ready to keep up with you. Share your favorite mix in the comments, and let us know if you’ve found your ideal furry friend!