Overview
The Blue Lacy was developed in Texas in the mid-nineteenth century as an all-round ranch helper. It herds cattle, trails wounded game and bays feral hogs, and it is quick to learn new tasks.
It is a high-drive dog best suited to owners who can offer a job, not just a yard.
History
The breed is named after the Lacy brothers, ranchers who moved from Kentucky to Burnet County, Texas, in 1858 and brought their working dogs with them. The dogs are said to come from greyhounds, scenthounds and coyote blood, and were bred to herd cattle and hogs and to track and tree game.
The Texas Senate honoured the breed in 2001, and in June 2005 the governor signed a law naming it the official state dog breed of Texas.
Appearance
The Lacy is strong and fast, lightly built yet well proportioned. Height at the withers is about 43 to 56 cm, and weight typically 11 to 25 kg, with males heavier. The coat is short, smooth and tight, and the eyes range from bright yellow to rich amber.
Three colour varieties are accepted: blue (silver to charcoal), red (cream to rust) and tri-colour, which combines blue with red markings.
Temperament
Lacys are intelligent, intense and alert, with great drive and determination when working stock or big game. They learn quickly and are easy to train, but young dogs can have too much energy for small children.
They are happiest when given a job and can become frustrated and restless without one.
Care and exercise
The short coat needs little grooming beyond occasional brushing, though they do shed. The main demand is activity: hard daily exercise and mental work such as herding, tracking, hog bay trials or agility.
They cope well with hot and cold weather and rough terrain, but are not suited to a sedentary life.
Health
Lacys are generally healthy and sturdy. Skin problems and food allergies can occur, and colour dilution alopecia is very rare but has been reported.
