I agree. We had one when I was a teen in NM. She was tough as nails and 100% animal, but what a sweet heart. If not kept busy will chew on and through anything. They are also smart but thick headed. She wouldn't quit jumping up on us and I worked with her just as the vet told us and it had no affect (slight knee to the chest and firm "no"). I could have beat her to death and she wouldn't have cared.If we were running in the back yard she would grab your foot and put you on your face. She could tackle anyone. I once saw a heeler/rotweiler mix. This dog was tough. Got kicked in the head by a cow it was messing with and didn't phase it.

Our heeler was protective but we didn't have to worry too much. She did place herself between us and others. She even pushed my grandpa away from my dad when he was giving him a hug. They are pretty heavy shedders if I remember correctly. Ours was on the large side and most I've seen are smaller.

I bought a car from a guy who had two heelers and used them to run rabbits. He said he didn't have to train them they just did it. He had a beagle pup he kept at home as a pet. I imagine that they could be trained to do just about anything.

If I had time and property I'd have a heeler and or a border collie in addition to a hunting dog.

Spud