Mary Allen
Introduction: The Lancashire Heeler
The Lancashire Heeler is a small breed of dog that originates from Lancashire, England. Despite its small size, the Lancashire Heeler is an energetic and agile dog breed that has a long history of hunting. This breed is known for its ratting abilities and was originally used to control vermin on farms.
Origins of the Lancashire Heeler breed
The exact origins of the Lancashire Heeler breed are unknown, but it is believed to have descended from the Welsh Corgi and the Manchester Terrier. The breed was developed in Lancashire in the 19th century and was primarily used as a working dog on farms. The breed was recognized by the Kennel Club in 1981 and is now considered a rare breed in the United Kingdom.
Hunting in the early years
The Lancashire Heeler was originally used for hunting small game and vermin, such as rats and rabbits. The breed was highly skilled at tracking and catching these animals, making it a valuable asset on farms. In addition to hunting, the Lancashire Heeler was also used for herding and droving cattle.
Ratting: The Lancashire Heeler’s specialty
Ratting is the Lancashire Heeler’s specialty, and this breed was once widely used for controlling rat populations on farms. Lancashire Heelers have a strong prey drive, making them excellent rat catchers. In the past, ratting was considered a popular sport, and people would gather to watch these dogs in action.
The breed’s role in cattle droving
In addition to ratting, the Lancashire Heeler was also used for cattle droving. These dogs were highly skilled at herding and driving cattle, making them valuable assets on farms. The Lancashire Heeler’s small size and agility made it easy for them to move around the cattle and keep them in line.
Hunting during the industrial revolution
During the industrial revolution, hunting became less popular, and the Lancashire Heeler’s role on farms changed. As farming practices changed, the breed’s use as a working dog declined, and it was in danger of becoming extinct.
The decline of hunting and the breed’s survival
As hunting declined, the Lancashire Heeler’s role on farms changed, and the breed began to decline in popularity. However, a dedicated group of breed enthusiasts worked to preserve the breed, and it was eventually recognized by the Kennel Club in 1981. Today, the Lancashire Heeler is still a rare breed, but its hunting legacy lives on.
Modern day hunting with the Lancashire Heeler
Today, the Lancashire Heeler is still used for hunting and is known for its ratting abilities. However, hunting with dogs is now regulated, and there are strict rules and regulations that must be followed.
Hunting regulations and the Lancashire Heeler
In the United Kingdom, hunting with dogs is regulated by the Hunting Act 2004. This act makes it illegal to hunt wild mammals with dogs, except for certain exemptions, such as ratting. Lancashire Heeler owners who want to hunt with their dogs must follow these regulations and ensure that they are hunting legally.
Training a Lancashire Heeler for hunting
Training a Lancashire Heeler for hunting requires patience and dedication. It is important to start training your dog at a young age and to use positive reinforcement techniques. Lancashire Heelers are highly intelligent dogs and respond well to training.
Hunting as a form of exercise for the breed
Hunting can be a great form of exercise for the Lancashire Heeler. This breed has a lot of energy and needs regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Hunting provides mental stimulation as well as physical exercise, making it an excellent activity for Lancashire Heelers.
Conclusion: The Lancashire Heeler’s hunting legacy
The Lancashire Heeler has a long history of hunting and was once a valuable asset on farms. Today, the breed’s hunting legacy lives on, and it is still known for its ratting abilities. While hunting regulations have changed, Lancashire Heelers can still be trained for hunting and can enjoy this activity as a form of exercise. The Lancashire Heeler’s hunting legacy is an important part of its history and should be celebrated and preserved for future generations to appreciate.