How to Train a Queensland Heeler Puppy
Training a Queensland heeler puppy is an essential task in order to create an obedient, balanced dog. Also called Australian cattle dogs and blue heelers, Queensland heelers are herding dogs by nature, as well as extremely bright and active. Many have strong personalities; training your Queensland heeler should begin as soon as possible.
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Instructions
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Place your Queensland heeler puppy inside a confined area, such as a crate, when you cannot provide supervision. Queensland heeler puppies become bored very easily and will look for something to do---this includes chewing your possessions and getting into things that are potentially dangerous, such as electrical cords and medications. Provide toys for your puppy to keep it occupied when you are away.
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Keep your Queensland heeler puppy in a crate for potty-training. This method typically works well for dogs, as it works with their natural instinct of not wanting to eliminate where they rest. However, Queensland heeler puppies usually do not like to be confined for more than a few hours; if you are gone for long periods of time, consider hiring a pet-sitter to let the puppy out or take it to a doggie daycare during the day.
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Walk your Queensland heeler puppy on a leash at least once a day. Queensland heelers are highly active and have quite an abundance of energy. Not providing an outlet for that energy can lead to a puppy who is frustrated, both physically and mentally. Frustration usually leads to destructive behavior and even aggression. Keeping your Queensland heeler's mind and body active will keep it calm and balanced.
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Socialize your Queensland heeler puppy by exposing it to humans and other animals. The more interaction your puppy receives and the more situations it is exposed to, the better. Queensland heelers have the tendency to be shy and timid; socializing the puppy at an early age is essential in preventing this sort of behavior.
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Establish your role as the leader in your household. Heelers are typically strong-willed and will try to become the alpha if not directed otherwise. Hold your Queensland heeler puppy on its back like a baby a few times a day to show it that you are the dominant one. Talk to the puppy and play with its feet while you practice this exercise. In addition, make your puppy work for its treats. Do not give treats unless it earns them with good and obedient behavior.
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Tips & Warnings
Queensland heelers typically do quite well in agility competitions. In addition, they usually like any type of physical activity, including swimming and hiking.
Avoid allowing interaction between your heeler puppy and other animals until it has received all of its puppy vaccinations.
References
- Photo Credit Miss Nina image by Troy Hostetler from Fotolia.com
