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Re: [RC] [Guest] Blue Heelers on Trail - SullivanI have thought for some time that breed would be good to run with a horse. My Rot did not work out, bad hips. Jean Wonser FL Since I have one, want to correct the misconception that the "heeler" is a breed- the name of the breed is Australian Cattle Dog. Those have have "heelers" also seem to be of the sort that whack off the trail, which is not only cruel, and unbalances the dog, but is also contrary to the breed standard which is to include a TAIL! Story I heard is that a Calif Vet. started the practice of docking the trails and it caught on with the ranch crowd......unfortuntaly. Okay, off soapbox. I have one, a sort of rescue as a one year old. They ARE great trail dogs with a minimum of physcial problems, hip dysplasia is rare in the breed and they are tough as nails. Mine is very bonded to me, but shy with strangers. They are not known for the best of dispositions; can be fiercely protective and reactive. Mine is still a problem chasing and heeling the horses, despite trying all kinds of training and a shock collar. Mine stays away from the horse feet on the trail, and ranges off after whatever, but generally in sight. I had tried Ridgebacks as trail dogs, but that did not work out for me. Both disliked it (were too lazy), and one had severe hip problems..... She is better as a running buddy, staying within sight and very protective. Would I get another? NO Karen =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Ridecamp is a service of Endurance Net, http://www.endurance.net. Information, Policy, Disclaimer: http://www.endurance.net/Ridecamp Subscribe/Unsubscribe http://www.endurance.net/ridecamp/logon.asp Ride Long and Ride Safe!! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
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