Blue Heelers are working dogs that are bred for herding and protecting livestock. They have a very high energy level and need plenty of playtime and mental stimulation.
While they tend to calm down as they become older and with proper training, it’s important to understand they this breed will always require plenty of exercise.
When do Blue Heelers calm down? Blue Heelers are naturally energetic, and although they may calm down between the ages of two and four, they will still be full of energy and require a lot of exercise. Proper training can help keep your dog calm in certain situations and calm down earlier in life.
If you have a Blue Heeler and want to know when you can expect him or her to calm down, read on to learn more.
When You Can Expect Your Blue Heeler To Calm Down
Blue Heelers are full of energy, and they love to play. This trait is what makes them great working dogs and perfect for herding livestock for long hours.
If you are planning to get a Blue Heeler, you should know that they will always be active and require plenty of exercise.
They typically start to calm down between the ages of two to four, and proper training can help them control their energetic behavior.
Blue Heeler Energy and Behavior Year By Year
To give you a clear idea of what to expect as your dog matures, let’s break it down a bit.
Birth to One Year
Up until the age of one, you can expect your Blue Heeler puppy to be very energetic and curious but also shy.
They will want to play constantly and will need to spend time outdoors where they can get plenty of exercise.
You should begin training within the first six months of bringing your puppy home, and they should know basic commands by age one.Â
Age Two to Four
Between the ages of two to four, Blue Heelers start to calm down. Their energy levels will stay high, but if they have had proper training, they should have learned to control themselves and be better behaved.
They should understand when it’s acceptable to run, play and be rambunctious and when they are expected to be calm.
If they are working on a farm or ranch, they will have adapted to this routine.
Age Five to Nine
By this age, most Blue Heelers are well trained and out of their puppy stage. They have adapted to their work and play routines and should be well socialized with both people and other dogs.
They are more likely to be calm at home and indoors but will still need plenty of exercise. Â
Age Nine and Up
Blue Heelers can live to be between 12 and 14 years old. As they age, they do become calmer, and their energy levels will drop.
Healthy Blue Heelers should still enjoy running, playing, and staying active. They will require less exercise than they did in their younger days and may spend more time napping or resting.
Factors That Affect When Your Dog Will Calm Down
While Blue Heelers do seem to calm down as they get older, there are some other factors that can determine when they calm down.
Daily Exercise
Blue Heelers need plenty of exercise and a chance to run and play each day. If they are able to get adequate exercise, they are more likely to be calm when exercise time is over.
Training
Even though Blue Heelers are full of energy, they can be trained to control their behavior. Proper training will help them know when it’s okay to run and play and when they are expected to be calm.
Socialization
All dogs need socialization, but Blue Heelers are especially social and affectionate.
They are more likely to get hyper and anxious when someone comes around if they have not been properly socialized.
Dogs that are properly socialized will be able to remain calm when a new person or animal comes around them.
Mental Stimulation
When Blue Heelers get bored, they are more likely to be hyper and want to explore and jump around.
Giving your dog toys or even a task to complete will help prevent boredom and help the dog direct his energy in a calm way.
Mental stimulation is often overlooked by many dog owners, but with a breed as active and intelligent as this one, exercising the mind is critical.
Why Blue Heelers Are So Hyper
Blue Heelers are a naturally energetic and active breed. They are bred to herd and protect livestock and must be quick on their feet and alert at all times.
With proper training and mental stimulation, they can use their energy in a healthy way and are more likely to calm down when the situation calls for it.Â
5 Ways To Help Your Blue Heeler Calm Down
If your Blue Heeler is extra hyper or full of energy and you need to find a way to help it calm down, consider these tips.Â
- Provide plenty of exercise
- Train your dog properly
- Provide plenty of mental stimulation
- Provide early socialization
- Be affectionate often
Related Questions:Â
Do Blue Heelers Ever Stop Biting?
Blue Heelers are bred to herd livestock, and one of the ways they motivate the animals to move where they want them is by nipping at their feet.
This instinct can also cause Blue Heelers to nip and bite at people. With proper training, this behavior can be corrected.
Do Blue Heelers Have Separation Anxiety?
Blue Heelers are very social and are prone to separation anxiety. They do not do well in homes where their owners spend long hours away or where they are the only pet.
When Do Blue Heelers Calm Down?
We’ve outlined ways to help your Blue Heeler find his “chill.” The long and short of it, though, is that your Blue Heeler is as unique and individual as you are. He will calm down… eventually!
ConclusionÂ
Blue Heelers are very friendly, smart, and affectionate. They are also full of energy and need a lot of exercise. So when do Blue Heelers calm down? We hope you’ve found a little comfort in our guide!Â
Before bringing a Blue Heeler into your home, make sure you understand the needs of this breed.
