I’ve never heard anyone call one of us cowdogs weak. Whether said as compliment or criticism, we are known for traits of strength. I am solid as a rock, granite- hard. I’ve heard it said, “That dog has bottom.” That means we are relentlessly, deeply powerful. We can run all day after cows and do just as good a job at sundown as at dawn when we started. We can cover rough country, get kicked by the rankest bovine, come right back. We can figure out what needs done, whether moving cows, disciplining the puppy, or ensuring our people know they are loved. We do it all with endless energy, smarts and heart. But there are a few other ways we are tough that you may not know about. So here is my Ladysmith List of unseen, unappreciated Heeler-strong traits.
1. Strong stomach – I know that connoisseurs and caring owners out there think a raw diet is just the best. I’m pretty discerning myself, most of the time, but I won’t pass up a good pile of aged horse poop either. There is nothing raw and fresh about a seasoned flat filet of road-kill, simmered for days on hot pavement and even fermented to bring out those healthy elements and aroma. And we will eat that with relish! 
2. Paws of iron – I have pads as tough as dried rawhide, and a little like flint. I think at times, scrambling over gravel, I have seen sparks. They are boots, cleats, ice crampons and dancing shoes. I am armed with rows of spiked nails. But they are soft when I reach out to comfort, laying a paw on dad’s knee and staring hard so he is assured that I feel his sorrow and worry; I lend him my joy, I pass cowdog power through that one paw touch. 
3. Shoulders of steel – these are to lean into our work, to lead the charge, to absorb the shock of a bumpy road, the heat of a high noon mountain trail, the icy blast of a dive into the river, and an easy rest on cool grass. Nowadays, there is a little limp sometimes. Many years ago when I was young and invincible, I baled off a high bank at my new home, landing hard on my left shoulder. Mom told me then it will someday remind me of my youthful exuberance, but not in a good way. But it’s okay. It won’t stop me from being all the dog I need to be. And mom and dad walk slower now, too, sometimes with a little bit of a limp like me.
4. Bottomless Lungs – You may never see the deep reservoirs that drive me on, never stopping, when a lesser soul would give out. But I will keep going, til the final breath I draw, to finish my job with commitment.
5. A tail made of wind and sun – mine is long and luxurious. My friend Ruger’s was just a little stump, but he could wag so hard his whole body positively buzzed! For all of us cowdogs, it is balance, beauty and how we shout happiness and joy.
6. Supernatural ears – I know I have been accused of selective hearing. But maybe it is because I am taking time to think, I am looking for the best response, and am thinking for myself like any good stock dog should do. Perhaps I listen intuitively to words you don’t say, to wishes you cannot name. I listen to the secrets of your heart. 
7. A coat of many colors – we may be called Blue or Red, but we wear the colors of a priceless gem – speckled or spotted in shades of blue, streaked in blended auburn tones, and trimmed out around the edges with every color of joy. I am a Red, White and Blue Heeler and proud of it!
8. A Heart of Gold – All the well known Heeler traits come from here – I am steadfast, determined, joyful and unwavering. But most of all, this is where I am relentlessly and permanently welded to you, heart to heart and soul to soul.
