Health of the Lancashire Heeler

The majority of dogs, mongrels and pedigrees alike, can live long, healthy, happy lives given the correct care and routine veterinary attention.

Lancashire Heelers frequently live into their late teens and sometimes even longer. As with any breed, there are some inherited conditions and it is important that anyone interested in the breed knows about these before buying a puppy.
Veterinary science has made great progress in recent years and tests exist which can identify the presence of certain conditions under specialist examination and also through DNA analysis. Responsible breeders are always willing to discuss health issues and inform enquirers of the screening tests done on their breeding animals. They will also want to know of any problems that crop up when any dog they have bred gets older so that they can be alerted to future potential problems.

Lancashire Heelers are a very healthy breed but there is a small incidence of hereditary diseases. The most important to be aware of in the Lancasire heeler are eye diseases.

It is important that even if you are buying a pet dog that you buy from stock that have had their eyes tested. Reputable breeders will supply eye testing certificates for your puppy.

As with other small breeds there may be an occasional case of Patella Luxation (slipping kneecap).