Blue Heelers, also known as Australian Cattle Dogs, are special little dogs.
They may not have the size of some bigger working dogs, but they will put in just as much effort with just as much energy.
These dogs are capable of running rings around other breeds – and their owners. This make them perfect companions and herding dogs for either active owners or cattle farmers.
An energetic, healthy Aussie Cattle Dog needs the right diet. So, what is the best dog food for Blue Heelers?
This means looking at different food by age, such as the best dog food for Blue Heeler puppies or seniors. It also means looking at factors like health issues, allergies and specific ingredients.
This guide will cover lot of different points with some top brands of Cattle Dog food to illustrate the point.
To begin with, let’s look at the importance of a good diet with these dogs.
Table of Contents
Why is a good diet so important for these dogs?
A good Blue Heeler diet is essential with their active lifestyle. Whether they are working dogs or not, these pooches will keep their owners on their toes.
They need a lot of exercise and play. Therefore, they need the right nutrition in their diet to handle there energy needs.
This typically means a source with two or three meat proteins in, such as whole chicken, beef, fish or lamb.
A good diet also helps them when maintaining the right weight. How much does a Blue Heeler weigh?
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]Ideally, you should be looking around 35 to 45 pounds for a healthy adult dog.This means an average daily caloric intake on that higher end of the scale of 1212 kcal. Too much more than this, with minimal exercise, and they could easily put on weight.
Also be aware that dogs that have been spayed/neutered will require a reduction in calories. [/thrive_text_block]
At this point it is also important to talk about good portion sizes for Blue Heelers.
Portion control is important in any breed. It helps to ensure they have energy and nutrients across the day, but don’t eat too much.
It is also important here because of the risk of bloat in Blue Heeler. Smaller portions, with limited access to water, can help to decrease this risk.
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Fromm Family Foods Dog Food could help with both issues here
Fromm cover all the bases when it comes to providing high quality dog food for all kinds of pets.
They promise the best ingredient from puppies to seniors, and many Blue Heeler owners will love their Fromm Adult dog Food.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]This is a great example of a brand with a lot of protein for that energy-rich diet that these Cattle Dogs need. [/thrive_text_block]There is a crude protein level of 24%, with the chicken, duck, lamb and fish meal. There are also plenty of vegetables with the carrots, potatoes and celery. Finally there are added vitamins, minerals and probiotics.
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”220″ identifier=”B00HYFROVM” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/215Nu6KXniL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”220″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2jVjdDJ’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]Fromm Family Foods also have a Fromm Gold Dog Food Weight Management option for those that may struggle to keep weight off.
This is great for those owners that struggle with portion control and dogs that have too many calories.
[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]The aim here is to provide the same great quality ingredient and the taste that dogs love. Yet, there is a clear reduction in fat and calories. This is a leaner option with just 10% fat. [/thrive_text_block]This means that dogs can eat the same size portions and hopefully begin to lose a few pounds.
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”300″ identifier=”B009LQ9GOK” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/31jq2BRRsgL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”300″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2j4QR9x’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]The best food for healthy adult dogs
The best place to start with some good dog food for Blue Heelers is with some basic options for adult dogs.
If you’re lucky enough to have a full grown, healthy Blue Heeler, then you just need a simple formula with all the most important ingredients for good health.
We have already seen the potential of Fromm for maintaining a healthy weight in adult dogs. Later on we will look at other options for working dogs, puppies and seniors.
BLUE Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food is a great example.
BLUE Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food is another option where there are lots of different types to suit different needs.
It pays to read the labels carefully as the differences might not be automatically clear to everyone. There are different protein options with brown rice, options for larger and small breeds and one for weight loss.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]As a medium breed, the standard chicken and brown rice should suit most Blue Heelers just fine. There are plenty of vegetables and no by-products, soy or wheat.The only potential downside is the inclusion of the whole grains – more on this later. [/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B0009YUI86″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/514k6k942OL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”341″] [thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’http://amzn.to/2AEso5U’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]
The best food for working herding dogs
Another consideration with the Australian Cattle Dog diet is their calorie intake. This is particularly important for those that are working dogs and therefore more active.
Herding dog need to get through the day on a healthy supply of calorie rich food. The same is true for those involved in sports and agility.
This means that the average intake for an average sized Australian Cattle Dog could increase to around 2020 kcal or more.
Purina Pro Plan SPORT Performance 30/20 Formula Dry Dog Food for working dogs.
Purina Pro Plan SPORT Performance 30/20 Formula is a great choice here.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The appeal with this option lies in the “sporty” focus for more energy for active dogs. This dog food boast a formula of 30% protein and 20% fat, with the aim of keeping dogs going, while maintaining muscle mass. [/thrive_text_block]There is also the added bonus here of extra EPA and glucosamine for joint health and increased mobility.
As you will see further on in this guide, this is particularly helpful with the health history of the Australian Cattle Dog.
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This is all great for dog that have no complaints. However, some of this Blue Heeler dog food wont be suitable to all pets.
There is a risk of having to deal with some Australian Cattle Dog allergies here.
[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]Many will suffer from food allergies. This mean a problem handling certain types of meats, grains or other ingredients that may be further down the list. [/thrive_text_block]This could present itself through itching and irritation on the skin, or through intestinal problems and digestive issues. When this occurs, take your pet to a vet for a check up. This could pinpoint the source of the allergy, while ruling out any other possible causes.
Unfortunately, there could be a case of trial and error until the culprit is found.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]In some cases, a simple shift to a different meat could be enough to help. This means ditching the chicken or fish and trying lamb, or a more unusual wild-sourced meat.Others will have problems with some herbs, spices or other flavoring that weren’t so clearly labelled. Then there is the issue of grains. [/thrive_text_block]
The good news on this front is that there are many brands that offer a form of grain-free food to eliminate these problematic carbs.
Choosing a good grain free mix for Blue Heelers
The good news is that there are lots of different grain free foods out there that can provide a great source of nutrition.
This means that dog owners can feed their pets some familiar formula with great taste, while retaining some peace of mind.
One such solution is the CANIDAE Grain Free PURE Dry Dog Food
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]This option comes in a wide range of meat options and adds lentils, peas and dried egg to the mix for a balanced diet.There are also plenty of probiotic, fatty acids and antioxidants.[/thrive_text_block] [easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B00K1DENYU” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/51k0o2Bd2xuL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2AEx9MO’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]
Other choices in grain free Blue Heeler food include Merrick Grain Free Dry Dog Food and Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food.
The latter has some stranger ingredient combinations, such as their wild game mix and fish mix. It is all-natural and completely safe.
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B007M0J7Z0″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/519tVFYWWJL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2j1oMzL’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]Finding the best puppy food for Blue Heelers
The options above all have their benefits for adults, but what about the needs of Blue Heeler puppies?
Puppies need different nutrients to allow them to grow fit and strong.
These Aussie Cattle Dogs are also prone to osteochondrosis dessicans (OCD). This means that their bones grow faster than the cartilage within. It is important to check the calcium levels and calcium to phosphorus ratio in any puppy food.
Hill’s Large Breed puppy Food
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]Hill’s Large Breed puppy Food is a great choice for fast growing pups in need of plenty of calories. [/thrive_text_block]There is a tasty blend of chicken and oats with plenty of additional vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to help with puppy health.
There is also a strong focus on the natural sources of glucosamine, chondroitin and calcium. This means that owners should have no concerns over the developing bones and joints of pups. There are also no artificial elements, such as colors, flavors or preservatives.
The other plus side to Hills is that this is a company with a conscience. They donate lots of food each year to shelters. This means high quality food for dogs and pups in need.
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B003MWGS22″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/41X6bcKFRPL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2Ci9rDe’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]The best food for senior dogs
There are two issues to consider with food for senior Cattle Dogs.
The first is that problem with their joints. This is more likely to affect their mobility and lifestyle in older age. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis can worsen with repetitive strain and exercise at a young age.
Also remember that older dogs need fewer calories because of reduced activity levels. They may put on weight more easily with their old diet and portions.
Luckily, there are plenty of senior dog foods that can help.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]ORIJEN Senior Dry Dog Food is loved by many dog owners that want to find the best possible, no-thrills solution for their aging pet. [/thrive_text_block]This is a simple “limited ingredient” formulas that is designed to still offer the right amount of nutrients that older dogs need.
This freeze-dried chicken mix has non grain and no weird extra for fussy eaters.
Buyers say that it can put the spring back into the step of older dogs.
The only problem is that it is quite an expensive choice compared to some other options that are available.
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B01I3KQ3SQ” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/51xEOsPv4mL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”312″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2j3dR8S’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link] [thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Senior Dog Food, Chicken & Barley, 30-Pound Bag is pretty similar in terms of its aims and the ingredients that are on offer. [/thrive_text_block]There is a blend of deboned chicken and barley that should be easy for older dogs to digest.
There is also added glucosamine and chondroitin, for maintaining those healthy joints, and no sign of any wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, preservatives, or artificial flavors.
The added benefit with this option is that is it much cheaper. Ideally, you want to find the perfect option for your pet, without paying a fortune every month for it.
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B001BORBII” locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/5157EoC5z9L.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2BlX8Ir’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]The benefits of natural whole-food diets for these dogs
A lot of the brands mentioned in this guide have a focus on healthy, well-sourced ingredients with the best nutrients. This is clear from the Blue Heeler puppy food to all those grain-free solutions.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]There are some brands that take this a little further with some impressive flavors and ingredients from more unusual sources.There are some that look at other sources of meat, such as boar, rabbit or even kangaroo. This adds a little authentic touch to the Australian Cattle Dog diet. Others like to use more unusual ingredients with the carbs and fillers, such as sweet potatoes. [/thrive_text_block]
It is worth looking around to see what is available. This could offer a nice change for pets stuck with the same flavors. However, some these products are a little more expensive as a result.
The other benefit of turning to these odder, naturally sourced meats and vegetables is that reduces the risk of those allergies.
If you can’t figure out if your heeler is allergic to chicken or lamb – or perhaps both – try a more unusual source of protein instead. These natural formulas also mean fewer preservatives and additives that might also contribute to allergic reactions and poor health.
There are plenty of interesting alternatives out there:
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]Taste of the Wild, Canine Formula comes in some interesting flavor choices when choosing one of their large, dry dog food bags for adult dogs. [/thrive_text_block]They are the “high prairie” option, with the bison and venison, “pacific stream” with smoked salmon, “wetlands” with roasted fowl, “sierra mountain” with roasted lamb and “southwest canyon” with wild boar.
Each bag contains a series of premium ingredients, complex carbs and no grains. They also promote the dog’s immune system in a natural way.
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B000W5SLB8″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/51lr4K3BWHL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”500″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2AGO7do’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link] [thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]Then there is the Wells Earthborn Holistic Primitive Natural Grain-Free Dog Food, this one doesn’t have the prestige of the Taste of the Wild options. Yet, it is more affordable and still have some interesting formulas. [/thrive_text_block]This is a purely natural solution with nothing that wild dogs shouldn’t enjoy. There is no risk of grain, gluten or preservatives.
The meat isn’t as interesting, with a choice of turkey, chicken or white fish. But, this may appeal to owners with dogs that are slightly fussier eaters.
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B0028H3IE8″ locale=”US” nw=”y” src=”https://howtotrainthedog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/51cSJPdRsUL.jpg” tag=”howtotrainy03-20″ width=”304″] [thrive_link color=’red’ link=’http://amzn.to/2BotGBM’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Buy On Amazon[/thrive_link]Of course there is also the option of making your own Aussie Cattle dog food
All this talk of the best brands and natural sources of food brings up one final factor that we shouldn’t overlook.
[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]Some dog owners like the idea of making their own meals for their dogs.This way they know precisely what is in the bowl. There are no additives and preservatives, no strange flavorings and no questionable processes. This allows for real, well-prepared food. [/thrive_text_block]
There is also a chance to reduce costs a little if the dog is eating what the family is eating – to a degree.
The downside is the time spend preparing the meals.
Finding the right food for your Aussie Cattle Dog.
As you can see, there is a lot to think about when considering the best dog food for Blue Heelers.
Age plays a part here, as there are different brands and formulas for puppies, adults and seniors. However, other factors like activity levels and allergies play a part too.
There could be many owners that find that they stick with the same brand throughout their heeler’s life – just with different versions. Others may experiment a little more with different solutions.
[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]This guide is meant to act as a starting point. Start with the age range and protein source your dog needs, then experiment with brands and flavors from there. [/thrive_text_block]If your dog has a negative reaction, seek advice from a vet on ingredients to avoid. If they love it, and still strong and lean, you have a winner. Most importantly, listen to your dog. He will soon show you if it tastes good and keeps him fit and strong.
Featured Image: Flickr / mlnewman, Pinimg