Queensland Heeler vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Queensland Heeler vs Huntaway - Breed ComparisonHuntaway is originated from New Zealand but Queensland Heeler is originated from Australia. Huntaway may grow 15 cm / 6 inches higher than Queensland Heeler. Huntaway may weigh 24 kg / 53 pounds more than Queensland Heeler. Both Huntaway and Queensland Heeler has almost same life span. Both Huntaway and Queensland Heeler has almost same litter size. Both Huntaway and Queensland Heeler requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Herding dogs
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New Zealand
Australia
Height Male:
56 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
Height Female:
52 - 62 cm
20 - 25 inches
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 46 kg
55 - 102 pounds
15 - 22 kg
33 - 49 pounds
Weight Female:
20 - 35 kg
44 - 78 pounds
15 - 22 kg
33 - 49 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 7
1 - 5
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
New Zealand Huntaway, New Zealand Sheepdog
Australian Cattle Dog, Blue Heeler
Colors Available:
commonly black and tan, tricolour, variable
mottled blue, Red speckled. Black and tan coloring , Blue
Coat:
smooth or rough
Short, double coat
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful, Responsive, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

huntawayThe Huntaway or New Zealand Huntaway is a herding dog that originated in the New Zealand sheep country. Their main purpose is to drive sheep and they are not an old breed. They were developed late in the 19th century for their working skills. The only real criteria was that they were black and tan. A dog must win a trial in order to be placed in the New Zealand Sheep Dog Trial Association studbook. They drive sheep mainly through their deep, loud voice.

In the New Zealand high country there was a need for a working dog with stamina, agility and intelligence to work the sheep as a drover (herder). The dog had to be able to handle rough, steep land and work with very large groups of sheep. The sheer area of land that the sheep graze and the dog would have to cover, demanded that this dog have stamina and strength to cover large pasture land and work for days if necessary. Before this the shepherds had used British sheepdogs but they preferred dogs that barked while working. So they bred the British Sheepdogs with Collies, Border Collies, Labrador, Rottweiler, Doberman and other barking sheepdogs to create the Huntaway. In addition to the bark, they bred for stamina and size.

They were participating in field trails in 1870 and ads for them were seen in newspapers by 1884. They became a separate breed in the 20th century. Today they are spreading around the world and are becoming very popular. It is not recommended that they be kept as pets however, since they are true working dogs.

queensland heelerAnother name for Queensland Heeler is Australian Cattle Dog or Blue Heeler.

These dogs have always been known for herding cattle. The term ‘Heeler’ comes from the dog’s working style – nipping and biting at the cattle’s hooves.

He was was an Australian cattle dog for Australian settlers in the 1800s. It is believed that Thomas Hall created one of the foundations of the Australian Cattle Dog breed by crossing crossing sheepdogs with Dingos.

The Blue-colored dogs have been the most popular, being known as the Blue Heeler.

Description

huntaway puppy - descriptionThe Huntaway is a large dog with a deep chest and a black and tan coat. They are strong, big and muscular with voices to match. They herd, head, work the sheep in pastures and force them into pens. They are bred to have that big authoritative, deep bark. They do not yap. Their bodies are well proportioned but longer than high. They have well - padded feet and a deep chest for stamina, along with strong legs and body that allows them to run fast and change directions at will.

The tail of a Huntaway if long, while their heads are shaped like blocks while the muzzle is long and the nose is black. They have dark, round eyes and long ears. An unusually attractive dog, they have dense fur with fringe on the tail and chest. There is characteristics a very large variety in the in the way the breed looks from one dog to the next. Thus they do not participate in confirmation events, as the standard is based on working characteristics rather than appearance guidelines. They are more a “class” than a “breed”.

queensland heeler puppy - descriptionThe Queensland Heeler is a medium sized dog that stands between 43 and 51cm in height, both male and female. The dog weighs in the region of 15 to 22kg.

He has a short double coat with colors being blue, mottled blue and also red speckled. You’ll also find black and tan coloring on this active dog.

He is strong, lean and muscular with medium sized ears that are erect. The eyes are dark and alert, the legs straight and strong. The tail can be docked or left long.

Temperament:

The Australian Cattle Dog is a high-energy working dog that you won’t easily find lying around. The alert eyes are consistently looking around for action and he can’t be bored otherwise he could resort to digging or other destructive behavior.

He is loving to his entire human family, but being particularly attached to just one family member. He is also protective, taking his guarding role of his family seriously.

He gets on well with children and other pets but you’ve just got to keep your eyes on him around children as when excited he can give a nip or two.

Training and socialization will be important for this dog, particularly because he can be strong-headed, willful and stubborn.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

huntaway dog - characteristicsThey are very good with children and love to play with them.

Special talents

Stamina, speed and independence

Adaptability

Not really. Don’t do well in small spaces. Better off in the country.

Learning ability

Very intelligent, quick learner, loves learning new things.

queensland heeler dog - characteristicsActive, intelligent, feisty, brave, playful, loving – these are just some of the wonderful characteristics you get when you bring a Queensland Heeler into your home.

True, he is independent, self-willed and stubborn, but training and socialization can take away all the rough edges.

He forms a strong bond with his human owner, and once you’ve had one of these amazing dogs in your life, you’ll be convinced that dogs are truly man’s best friend.

Health Problems

huntaway puppies - health problemsThe Huntaway is a pretty healthy breed, developed as it was from the sheepdogs and collies. They still face some inherited issues such as:

  • Hip dysplasia – can cause lameness and arthritis
  • Cancer of bone – life threatening
  • Ear Infections – long eared dogs are prone to infections
  • Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (MPS IIIA) – rare metabolic issue can cause neurological problems.
  • Dilated Caridomyopathy (DCM) – enlarged heart can cause heart failure

queensland heeler puppies - health problemsAustralian Cattle Dogs are healthy. Every dog, even the most healthiest breeds, can succumb to some of the common dog illnesses there are.

Deafness:

This is an inherited condition, so if you’re looking for a puppy, be careful about the breeder you buy from.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is another inherited condition where the thighbone of the dog doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. Your dog is usually so active but with this problem he may well be in pain and actually be lame. Your pet can even develop arthritis . The idea is to get your pet to the vet because it can be unbearable to see him in pain and unable to get around.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

This eye disease can mean deterioration of the retina. You'll recognize the signs when you see your dog unable to navigate around your home during the night. He is night blind but later on he can’t see during the day either.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the Puppy

huntaway dogs - caringIf you are not using your Huntaway to herd, then feed a medium formula not a high protein, high calorie formula. Feed 3-4 times a day and 1-2 cups.

Feeding the adult

3 cups per day feeding twice a day high quality medium calorie food.

Points for Good Health

Exceptional stamina

Games and Exercises

This herding breed has a great need of mental and physical stimulation. They were born to herd and to do so over vast tracts of land in challenging conditions. They need to be challenged. They need daily exercise at a very high level. A Run them every day or take them on a couple of long walks. They will excel in field trials, Barnhunt, agility and rescue. They love to learn.

queensland heeler dogs - caringTo cope with his life on the Australian Outback, the Queensland Heeler is known to be a low maintenance dog.

The thick coat does shed and it can get dusty so a good brush twice a week is all that is basically required for this dog. If his nails don’t wear down naturally, you will need to have them trimmed. As with every dog, you will need to give attention to his ears and teeth.

Exercise:

This is an extremely active dog. He is going to be needing both mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom, after all he is used to an active lifestyle herding cattle. Hikes, swimming, running – you name it – he’ll join you with all your activities.

Diet:

Your Queensland Heeler is such a vibrant dog, full of the joys of living, and you want to ensure he has good food to eat to ensure he stays like that.

For convenience you get some excellent commercially manufactured dog foods. Your Blue Heeler is such a wonderful companion dog that you want to spoil him a bit and give him some delicious home-made food too. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are a healthy choice for your pet – plain and simple just like dogs love it. Chop it up and add it into the high quality dry kibble a couple of times a week.

Some raw meat added in from time to time will help his skin and coat remain healthy. Never leave him without a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

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  8. Huntaway vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Huntaway vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Huntaway vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
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  14. Huntaway vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
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  26. Queensland Heeler vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Queensland Heeler vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Queensland Heeler vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Queensland Heeler vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Queensland Heeler vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Queensland Heeler vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Queensland Heeler vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Queensland Heeler vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Queensland Heeler vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Queensland Heeler vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Queensland Heeler vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Queensland Heeler vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Queensland Heeler vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Queensland Heeler vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Queensland Heeler vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Queensland Heeler vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Queensland Heeler vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Queensland Heeler vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Queensland Heeler vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Queensland Heeler vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Queensland Heeler vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Queensland Heeler vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Queensland Heeler vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Queensland Heeler vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Queensland Heeler vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison