chasing autos

Question
Hi!We need help. We have a 4 month old blue heeler pup that is out of control! We have had 2 other blue heelers, one who died at the age of 16 this fall. He was a great dog and we are trying not to compare them but this new pup is much harder to deal with. We are starting to get past the biting (somewhat) he does great in the barn but he has now starting to chase auto's (we've never had a dog do that before) What is the best way to go about breaking him of this? We've thought about shock collar but have never had to use one before. He is smart and loveable but refuses to come to us outside but will inside. We are tired of having to chase him around. He will finally come in (when he chooses or we shake the treat bag!) We trained out other heelers but are in need of help with this little guy. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Our children are already attached to him but we fear he won't make it long with his habits.  Thank You so much!  Amy

Answer
Hi Amy, I am sorry you are having problems...some heelers are "more independent" than others. Since heelers are bred to "chase stock".....it is natural for them to chase other moving objects..i.e. skateboards, bikes, cars,etc. Most heelers have an intense desire to please, but there are those(such as your boy) who prefer to live life their own way. If he is only 4 months, I would wait till he is at least five months, and then enroll him in a formal obedience class. He needs to learn to come when called,etc. If you will tell me where you live, I may be able to refer you to someone. You can also post to cattledog-l@mylist.net...and ask there where you might locate a trainer who is good with heelers.It would be impossible for me to go through all the intricacies of obedience training.....through this email. I also have a four month old puppy that I evaluated at 7 weeks. Should you decide not to keep this puppy...and want another one...do a search for "puppy temperament test" online.......there will learn how to pick out the correct disposition. Believe me these tests work. I used them on the puppy I bought, and he is everything I wanted. Hope this helps...Wendy