Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mix (Cattle Terrier Mix) - Info & FAQs

Rat Terrier Blue Heeler Mix (Cattle Terrier Mix) – Cross Breed

Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix (Cattle Terrier Mix) is a hybrid designed dog breed. We discuss all the information and answer the FAQs about this wonderful crossbreed.

Did you know that dog cross breeding traces back to the 14th century? Yes, that was nearly 700 years ago. Ever since various crossbreed dogs were developed over the years, and in the present, crossbreed dogs or designer dogs are not something unusual.

Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix, sometimes also known as the Cattle Terrier mix, is a wonderful crossbreed. These hybrid dogs are adorable looking, and they inherit both physical and personality traits from their parents; Rat Terriers and Blue Heelers.

If you are someone looking forward to having a loyal, friendly, intelligent, and energetic dog, this crossbreed will make an ideal pet for you.

When adopting a dog, you might pay attention to several things: their temperament, life expectancy, and maintenance. It is crucial to be attentive to such factors when raising a dog.

Speaking of crossbreed dogs, if the breed sounds unfamiliar to you, most of us might be a bit reluctant to adopt such dogs. But if you are someone who says yes to adventures, you won’t hesitate to have a unique dog.

Either way, before making the decision, it is always worth knowing the facts. So read this article to get a fair understanding of the Cattle Terrier Mix.

Fast Facts of Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mix (Cattle Terrier Mix)

Average height 13 – 17 inches 
Average weight 10 – 20 pounds
Lifespan 12 – 15 years 
Suitable for Apartments, Active owners,
Families with kids, Couples
Temperament Energetic, Friendly, Playful,
Protective, obedient
Good for families? Yes
Other nicknames Cattle Terrier Mix, Rat-Heeler
Complied by Jack Russell Owner

Origin of Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mix

Let’s begin with understanding the origins of this dog breed. When was the Blue Heeler and Rat Terrier mix created? Well, this can be a tricky question to answer because it is hard to trace the exact origins of this crossbreed dog.

But it is pretty evident that the Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix has gained popularity in recent years. 

If we briefly study the origins of the parent dogs, Rat Terriers were hunting dogs bred in the early 1900s in the United Kingdom.

On the other hand, Blue Heelers were cattle dogs developed in the early 1800s in Australia. Both parent dogs have an extensive history associated with them.

Back in the day, Rat Terriers were farmers’ best friends as they helped to protect the farms from rats and small pests.

And Blue Heelers also played an important role on farms and ranches, looking after cattle.

Perhaps these two breeds were crossed with the aim of developing friendly yet intelligent watchdogs.

There is no precise information to figure out when and why exactly these designer dogs were created. However, they came into the discussion not so long ago.

The appearance of Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mix

The appearance of Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mix

Appearance-wise, Rat Terriers and Blue heelers have some similarities and significant differences. When it comes to the appearance of a Cattle Terrier Mix, this hybrid version makes a unique-looking dog.

Keep in mind that as a cross-breed dog version, they could sometimes inherit more physical characteristics from one parent over the other.

They can also be a perfect blend of both. Nevertheless, below you can find what these designer dogs typically look like.

Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix is identified as a medium-sized dog. Their size could slightly differ based on the bloodline of parents as well as gender.

However, generally, they would grow around 15-25 pounds in weight and 13-20 inches in height. These cross-breed dogs have a solid and sturdy body structure.

Their straight coat is usually short or medium-length. And the coat has an interesting color blend, primarily white, and you can find black, gray, and brownish shades with speckles that have a red and blue touch. Furthermore, they have oval-shaped eyes and pricked ears. 

How big do Blue Heeler and Rat Terrier Mix get?

Rat Terriers are typically small-sized dogs, whereas Blue Heelers are medium-sized. Their crossed version, as mentioned before, makes a medium-sized dog.

A full-grown healthy a Blue Heeler Rat Terrier mix could have a weight of around 10-20 pounds and a height of 13-17 inches.

Internal factors such as genes and gender function as the primary determinants of the growth of these dogs.

But it is essential to know that external factors such as food and exercise could also considerably impact the dog’s growth.

The temperament of Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mix

As an amalgamation of a hunting dog and cattle dog, the Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix undeniably becomes a dog breed with amazing personality traits.

Rat Terriers are well known for their energetic, outgoing, friendly personalities. On the other Blue Heelers are known for being protective, obedient, and intelligent. Moreover, both the parent breeds are friendly, attentive, and loyal.

So the combination of these two breeds, which is the Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix, is a dog with a brilliant personality. Just like their parents, these dogs are active and energetic.

They have good levels of intelligence. Also, these dogs make loyal, caring, and friendly family pets.

Most importantly, their sharp eyesight and highly sensitive noses make them excellent watchdogs.

Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix might inherit prey drive within them, but the ones who grow up in households along with humans do not show intense predator behavior.

Average Lifespan of Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mixed

Rat Blue Heeler mixed dogs live around 12 – 15 years. It is a relatively higher lifespan than most small dog breeds. However, proper care and healthy foods give them a maximum lifetime.

Average Lifespan of Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mixed

How much do Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mixed puppies cost?

The prize range of Cattle Terrier Mix could vary due to several reasons. However, if you have any plans to buy one of these puppies, you might have to spend around 500-1000 US dollars.

This is just an average price range; you might find these dogs for lower or even higher prices than the usual range.

However, it is better to get your Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix puppy from a reputed breeder since this is not the most famous hybrid dog version.

Tips for maintenance of a Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler Mix

Maintenance is the key to having a healthy and happy canine. Speaking of maintenance of a pet dog, the first thing that pops up to mind is grooming. Keeping your dog neat and clean is a must.

Also, it is essential to know about the general health, dietary patterns, and exercise requirements of your pet as a responsible dog parent.

So below, you can find some tips for maintenance and other related aspects of this crossbreed.

  • Grooming

If you are someone who has a busy schedule, you might find it challenging to raise a high-maintenance dog.

But these dogs are low maintenance dogs which makes them an ideal fit for anyone. Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix typically have a short or medium-length straight coat.

Unless there is a particular need, it would be enough to keep their coat clean by brushing them once or twice a week and bathing them once a month.

Apart from that, you can brush their teeth a couple of times a week to maintain oral hygiene. Also, trim their nails when needed. 

  • Nutrient 

We say that “you are what you eat,” and this phrase is applicable to dogs as well. The food you give to your dog matters significantly when deciding its well-being.

Hence Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix are energetic and active dogs; you need to provide them with high-quality food.

It is recommended to give them dog food twice a day, but adding vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and other protein sources like chicken to their meals is better. Also, you have to pay attention to the amount of food you give them. 

  • Physical activities 

Physical activities are essential for dogs. Not only does it keep them happy and fit, but it also helps them to stay healthier, enjoying the maximum life span.

These dogs are naturally active and super energetic, so it is not hard to make them exercise. You can take them for a walk or play in a park for around 15-30 minutes regularly to provide their exercise requirement. 

  • General health concerns 

As a crossbreed, Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix could possess some health concerns from both parent breeds.

Examples include genetic disorders, hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), deafness, and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).

If you notice sudden and frequent changes in your dog’s behavior, take it to a vet without delay. 

Final thoughts about Cattle Terrier Mix

This article comprehensively talked about a designer dog breed; Rat Terrier and Blue Heeler mix. They might not be the most familiar crossbreed dogs, yet they make wonderful family pets.

Inheriting genes from Rat Terriers and Blue Heelers, these dogs get unique looks and personalities. Hence this is a designer dog breed; one cannot precisely explain their physical or personality traits.

But you can relatively understand them as described in the article. It is crucial to know the facts, but don’t forget that they are subjective. Raising a dog is undoubtedly a responsible duty to fulfill.

And when it comes to mixed-breed dogs, you might have to pay extra attention. Although it is responsible, it is a rewarding duty, especially being an owner of a unique dog breed.

I hope you got some valuable insights by reading this article! Stay tuned with Jack Russell Owner for more interesting posts about your favorite dog breed.

Author

  • Lisa Watson

    Lisa W. is a practicing certified veterinarian (BVetMed Hons in Veterinary Medicine) who graduated from Royal Veterinary College, UK. One of her research fields is mixed-dog breeds and their temperament, behavioral issues, and genetic health concerns. Also, she gathers data about purebred dog breeds and their origin, lifespan, and genetic conditions. Lisa is a loving dog parent who is keen to share her expertise with other fellow dog parents.

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