Lancashire Heeler breed guide

Lancashire Heelers have a unique characteristic called the Lancashire Heeler Smile: when content, they draw back their lips in a way that looks like a human smile. They are affectionate with their owners, always happy, talkative and always ready for a walk.

Intelligent and quick to learn, they may have a mind of their own, so training should be kind but firm. They are sometimes wary of strangers until introduced.

Lancashire Heelers live 12 to 15 years. Primary lens luxation, an inherited eye disease, was found in 2006 and aggressive action by breeders and research by animal health groups has reduced it, so both parents and their young should be eye tested.

The short, hard, flat coat is dense and waterproof and needs very little grooming: a light brushing and an occasional bath keep a Lancashire Heeler clean. Nails need trimming with a clipper or grinder.

The breed likes exercise, human interaction and mental stimulation. It may be demanding of your attention or somewhat laid back but is always ready to play. Play in a fenced backyard or walks several times a day cover its exercise.

The Lancashire Heeler's history goes back to the 17th century, though its exact origin is unknown. A type of Welsh Corgi is mostly accepted to have been used to drive stock to the Lancashire market from northern Wales and a small black and tan butchers' dog was common in the Ormskirk area of West Lancashire.

In 2003 the breed was placed on the UK Kennel Club's Endangered Breeds list because of a small gene pool and the risk of several inherited diseases.