Shared Petting a Heeler Etiquette : To approach an unfamiliar Heeler, ask the owner first, then move slowly from the side in an arc, avoid direct eye contact, keep your hands down, and let the dog initiate sniffing and interaction; be patient, speak softly, and respect their space, as Heelers are naturally cautious and protective of their territory. Before you approach Ask the owner: Always get permission from the owner first, as some Heelers are wary of strangers, says Hauptman, O'Brien, Wolf & Lathrop. Don't rush: Heelers can be suspicious; rushing can trigger their protective instincts, note the AuCaDo and Facebook posts. How to approach Sideways & slow: Approach in a slight arc, not head-on, with your body turned sideways to appear less threatening. Avoid eye contact: Direct staring is seen as a challenge; blink often and use soft, indirect eye contact. Stay calm: Keep movements fluid and avoid sudden actions or high-pitched noises, suggests the Wisconsin Pet Care website. Get low: Crouching down can make you seem less intimidating, according to Global Strays. Let them sniff: Keep your hands at your sides or offer the back of your hand palm-down for them to sniff, notes Global Strays and Good Guys Injury Law. What to do next Let them lead: Allow the dog to approach you and dictate the pace of the interaction, says the Dog Trainer College. Pet appropriately: If they seem comfortable, pet their chest, chin, or sides, but avoid their head or ears initially. Be patient: It can take time for a Heeler to trust, so be prepared to go slow and respect their boundaries, say users on Facebook.

Failed rehoming post fostering. We need to remember Cattle dogs generally bond with only one person, and that one person is of their choosing. When bonded they take loyalty to a level above that you have ever known. In regard to protection, they have a level that many new people new to the breed have never seen and as a result label them as a rebellious and aggressive to even dangerous. I continue to work at laying the labels to rest through education in Cattle dog temperament.