Blue Lacy Dog Breed

Blue Lacy
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  • Other names:
  • Lacy Dog
  • Lacy Game Dog
  • Texas Blue Lacy
  • Lacy Hog Dog
  • Blue Lacy Game Dog
  • Texas Blue Lacy Game Dog
  • Texas State Dog
  • View all 7...
Overview

The Blue Lacy is also referred to as the "Lacy Dog" or simply "Lacy" and is a breed that appeared a few centuries ago in the Southwestern United States. This dog is known for being the state dog of Texas and possesses a true country spirit; they are diligent, alert, and always complete a task. Lacys are also great family companions because they are best friends to children, do well with other dogs and strangers, but can still be a protective watchdog. Members of this breed fare best when they have a job to do, therefore, their perfect matches are hunter, farmers, ranchers and other outdoorsy folks. Their attractive coats need very little grooming and they can adapt to indoor or outdoor living (provided they get enough attention). The Blue Lacy is a very hardy dog that has no well documented health issues and may well live 16-20 years; this should be taken into consideration carefully as it makes owning a Lacy a lifelong commitment.)

Blue Lacy Breed Details

Breed Specs
TypeLifespanHeightWeight
Purebred16-20 yrs.18-25 in.25-50 lbs
  • Friendliness
  • Overall
  • Family Friendly
  • Kid Friendly
  • Pet Friendly
  • Stranger Friendly
  • Maintenance
  • Easy to Groom
  • Energy Level
  • Exercise Needs
  • General Health
  • Shedding Amount
  • Behavior
  • Barks / Howls
  • Easy to Train
  • Guard Dog
  • Playfulness
  • Watch Dog
  • Ownership
  • Apartment Friendly
  • Can Be Alone
  • Good for Busy Owners
  • Good for Novice Owners
  • Intelligence
* The more green the stronger the trait.

Below are details and specs for the Blue Lacy dog breed.

Blue Lacy Breed Description

Individuals typically stand around 18-25 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 25 to 50 pounds.

The Lacy is driven, alert, intuitive and an all-around good family companion. They are playful and loyal with kids, mesh well with other dogs, and make good watchdogs. They may retain hunting instincts toward smaller pets.

This breed is very low maintenance in regards to grooming. As long as you can firmly establish yourself as the leader, they are natural workers and very trainable. They are at their best when they have a job to do so an active, outdoorsy owner is a must.

Blue Lacy Breed History

The Blue Lacy was documented to make its appearance in the Southwestern U.S. during the 1800s and was named for the Lacy family of Texas. This family maintains they are a mix of several breeds including Greyhounds, scenthounds (such as the July, Redbone, or Italian Greyhound), and even coyotes! They originally found their place herding and droving on the open plains, and as these needs diminished with time, found new jobs as game trackers including hogs and deer. They are not only prized for trailing wounded game and treeing others but are also dependable family companions. Presently, they are still used heavily by the United States Trappers and still can be found doing farm and ranch work; they are known for leading the livestock instead of pushing them from behind. The Blue Lacy is recognized by many organizations including the UKC, ACA, and CKC. In 2001 they were recognized by the Texas Senate and in 2005 they became the state dog.

Blue Lacy Appearance

Members of this breed are absolutely eye catching in addition to being medium sized, well balanced and symmetrical. Their coats are very short and smooth and are either blue, red or tri-colored. Lacys have proportionately sized heads that are rather flat on top. They have unique eye coloration, an orangish yellow, and a slate colored nose to match their coat. The triangular ears are set set on the top sides of the head and hang about 4-5 inches. Overall, their look is alert, confident, and capable of putting in work.

Blue Lacy Coloring

Technically, Lacys have two color classes-- red or blue. Red encompasses red coats as well as yellow and cream. Blue includes the solid slate grey as well as the tri-colored; tri coloreds are blue with red markings above the eyes, under the tail, as well as on the muzzle and legs. The UKC states that all Lacys have white markings to some extent on their chest and on at least one paw.

Blue Lacy Size

The Blue Lacy is considered a medium sized dog. Individuals typically stand around 18-25 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 25 to 50 pounds. Females will be on the lower end of this scale and males will trend towards the higher limits.

Average Adult Height

18-25 in
*Height is measured in inches from the front paws to the top of the shoulder while the dog is standing on all four legs.

Average Adult Weight

25-50 lbs

Blue Lacy Temperament

Lacys are very dependable and intuitive; you can count on them to be where they are supposed to be and doing what they are supposed to be. They are said to need very little training in the way of duties and are especially sensitive to raised voices and anger towards them. That being said, they are naturally dominant dogs and it is imperative that you firmly establish yourself as the pack leader at the time of puppyhood.

These dogs are energetic and driven to fulfill any task, they need plenty of stimulation and interaction. The best match for a Lacy is either farmer, hunter or a very active individual. They are protective and territorial and, like any other job assigned to them, they will do their utmost to guard you and their property. Lacys excel at: following blood trails, hunting hogs, treeing small animals, herding, and even search and rescue.

Blue Lacy and Children

Members of this breed are stable yet playful companions to children. They will be protective and loyal to them (as well as the rest of the family).

Blue Lacy and Other Pets

Due to most of its history being that of a hunting companion, these dogs will likely need to be socialized from a young age with smaller pets; even then they might retain strong curiosity or chasing instincts. They will likely get along with other dogs.

Blue Lacy and Strangers

All evidence suggests Lacys get along just fine with strangers. They are alert and territorial, so they make acceptable watch dogs.

Blue Lacy Photos

Below are pictures and images of the Blue Lacy.

Blue Lacy
Blue Lacy Sitting
Blue Lacy

Blue Lacy Maintenance

Ideally, this breed will have owners that are either very outdoorsy and active, farmers, ranchers, or hunters. They are at their best when they have a job to do and are getting plenty of exercise. They enjoy working and exercising with their owner/family and require a moderate amount of attention. Training them in their duties will require little effort--they are naturals! However, it is important to establish yourself firmly as the pack leader from the beginning with these dominant dogs.

Grooming Requirements

The sleek, short coat needs little care and is said not to shed much. A brushing every week or so will help lessen whatever shedding there is. Nails should be trimmed regularly and the teeth and ears should be cleaned on a schedule as well.

Exercise Requirements

Unlike many breeds, the Blue Lacy doesn't develop destructive behaviors quickly if bored, however, they still need appropriate amounts of exercise. Lacys are still working dogs and they get much exercise hunting, herding, or doing other duties on farms and ranches.

Living Requirements

Lacys are very adaptable dogs that can live indoors or out. Whichever you decide, know that they will still need plenty of attention and exercise.

Temperature Range

These dogs have very short, sleek coats that keep them cool in warm to hot weather. They will, therefore, likely be uncomfortable in very cold climates.

Blue Lacy Health

No well documented issues exist for this healthy breed and they will likely live a long life (around 16-20 years). Many Lacys are still active at the age of 16. Some experts mention that, although rare, skin allergies and Color Dilution Alopecia (loss of coloration and hair) has been noted.

  • Color Dilution Alopecia

Blue Lacy Breed Recognition

The following dog breed registries and organizations recognize the Blue Lacy as a dog breed:

  • American Canine Registry
  • America's Pet Registry
  • Continental Kennel Club
  • Dog Registry of America Inc.
  • National Kennel Club
  • American Canine Association, Inc.
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