Beagle Blue Heeler mix is an interesting designer dog obtained by crossing a Beagle with a Blue Heeler (Australian Cattle Dog). They are one of the rarest beagle colors.
While relatively rare, the popularity of these designer dogs is rising in the United States. More and more breeders are crossing Beagles with Blue Heeler dogs since the resulting puppies are smart, curious, alert, and energetic. They also combine the desirable traits of both the parent dog breeds.
If you’re considering getting a Beagle Blue Heeler mix, you must do your research and learn everything you can about the breed. With proper training, these hybrid dogs can make a wonderful addition to your family.
Origin of the Beagle-Blue Heeler Mix
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Also known as the Beagle Cattle Dog (since Blue Heelers are known as Australian Cattle Dogs), the origins of the Beagle Blue Heeler mix aren’t documented. After all, there are no canine club registries that record the birth of these mixed puppies.
As such, cross-breed dogs may have existed since the dawn of time. But dog breeders only started using scientific know-how about complex canine genetics to mix dogs around the 1980s. This was the time the popularity of designer dogs was on the rise. People wanted dogs that combined the best traits of different dog breeds.
One such mix is the Beagle-Blue Heeler.
Let us study the characteristics of the parent dog breeds:
Beagles
Beagles are a popular dog breed in the United States. The AKC describes the Beagle as a merry, friendly, loyal, and companionable dog.
In 2021, it was voted 5th most popular dog breed in the United States.
Beagles are available in two sizes – 13 inches and under with a weight of under 20 lb. and about 13-15 inches with a weight of 20-30 lb. Beagles are available in a variety of colors, although the classic black-tan-white or the tri-coloured Beagle is the most popular.
Beagles generally get along well with other kids and dogs, provided they are socialized with them from a young age. Often, Beagles tend to be wary and aloof with strangers.
Blue Heeler
The Blue Heeler, or the Australian Cattle Dog, is a tenacious, loyal, working dog. These dogs often have blue/blue mottled/blue speckled coats, which give them their name. Blue Heelers measure between 17-20 inches and weigh around 35-50 lb.
They are highly trainable, intelligent dogs. Heelers also have high energy levels and need a job to do. Without work, they tend to get bored and destructive. Blue Heelers also need a lot of mental stimulation.
Physical Characteristics of the Beagle Blue Heeler Mix
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Depending on the Beagle parent used in the cross, the Beagle Blue Heeler Mix could weigh between 18-28 lb and measure between 14-18 inches at the withers. They are muscular dogs with deep, broad chests. They could have rounded ears like Beagles or pointed upright ears like the Blue Heeler.
Coat and Grooming Needs
The coat of the Beagle Blue Heeler mix could be blue, brown, white, tan, black, red, or lemon and combinations of these colors. They could also have speckled, mottled, or ticking patterns on their coat. Mostly, these mixed dogs have a short and smooth double coat like the parent dogs.
The Beagle-Blue Heeler mix’s short coat does not need too much grooming. However, they do shed seasonally, so you might want to brush your dog’s coat at least 3-4 times a week. You should also bathe your dog once a month.
Temperament and Personality of the Beagle Cattle Dog
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Exercise and Training Needs
Beagle Cattle Dogs might inherit the friendly, outgoing, lovable personality of the Beagle or the tenacious and hardworking nature of the Blue Heeler dog.
In any case, your Beagle Blue Heeler mix is bound to be curious, alert, intelligent, and bold. They are also determined and focused. You have to give them a job to do, and rest assured they will get it done! Naturally, your pet will also need consistent training from a young age.
Like the Beagle, your puppy could love to bark and howl. (Of course, there is a good chance that your dog takes after their silent Blue Heeler parent). If it is the former, you should not tolerate your dog’s tendency to howl, whine, and bark. Curb this behavior from the start unless you want your neighbors complaining.
Beagles are hunting dogs, and Blue Heelers were bred to guard and herd cattle. The mixed offspring of the two breeds could inherit the strong sense of smell of the Beagle and the Blue Heeler’s tendency to nip and herd. In either case, obedience training in basic commands can come in handy.
Your active and energetic dog will also need a lot of daily physical activity. Without exercise and mental stimulation, your puppy is bound to get bored and destructive. Invest in puzzles and dog treat dispensers to keep your smart dog engaged. If possible, enroll your dog in agility courses.
Are Beagle Blue Heeler Mixes Good Family Dogs?
With socialization and training, you can mold this dog to suit your household. Most Beagle Blue Heeler mixes get along with kids and other dogs.
They also make great companions for kids. However, they need an active family and aren’t the best choice for inactive people or people with limited mobility.
Health and Lifespan of Beagle Blue Heeler Mix
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Beagle Blue Heeler mixes live for an average of 12-15 years. Common health issues seen in the breed are heart conditions, eye issues like cherry eye, hip dysplasia, allergies, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy.
It is important to buy your puppy from a good breeder who conducts health checks on the breeding dog to prevent genetic defects in the pups.
How Much Does a Beagle Blue Heeler Mix Cost?
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Breeders for the Beagle Blue Heeler mix are relatively rare. Some websites are known to sell Beagle Blue Heeler mix puppies for $150-$450.
Always ensure that the dogs are vet checked, dewormed, vaccinated, and raised in a loving family environment. Good breeders also offer health guarantees on genetic issues.
What To Feed a Beagle Blue Heeler Mix?
Beagle Blue Heeler mixes need high-quality dog food that meets or exceeds AAFCO guidelines. You can choose from dry food or canned/wet food. If you’re comfortable with home-cooked food for your Beagle Blue Heeler mix, make sure to discuss the diet with your vet. This is important to ensure that your pet gets balanced nutrition.
A Raw or BARF diet is also a good option. Always make any dietary changes slowly and after a detailed discussion about the topic with your vet.
Final Thoughts – Beagle Blue Heeler Mix
If you’re looking to add an active, smart, and highly trainable Beagle mix dog into your family, then the Beagle Blue Heeler mix is a great choice. They are great family dogs and make excellent companions for kids. However, they also need a firm and experienced dog handler.
If you have a Beagle Blue Heeler mix, please tell our readers a bit more about the breed in the comments below.