Dog Breeds 101: Blue Lacy

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The sleek Lacy Dog or Blue Lacy Dog is “a true Texas breed” according to Senate Resolution No. 436, the 77th Legislature. Governor Rick Perry signed the legislation in 2005 adopting the Blue Lacy as “the official Dog Breed of Texas”. [1]

The breed was created in the late 19th century by the Lacy brothers (Frank, George, Ewin and Harry) who wanted a dog that could round up wild hogs and drive them to market. The brothers started out with an English Shepherd, a Greyhound and a wolf which resulted to dogs having incredible speed and a strong drive to work. [2] Lacys have a clean appearance with their tight and smooth coat which usually comes in the colors gray, red or cream. Adults are 18 to 25 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 25 to 50 pounds, with unique yellow to orange eyes. They are natural herders and they can work with chickens and even the toughest Texas Longhorn cattle. [3]

Lacys have incredible drive and are always determined to protect their property. They need constant mental and physical exercise to keep them healthy. This is an extremely intelligent breed which can be quickly trained to perform tasks. They can be quite stubborn sometimes so they need a calm yet assertive leader who establishes clear rules. [4]

The breed has an average life span of 12 to 16 years and has no major breed-related health issues. However, they can develop minor joint and skin problems. Occasionally, blue and tricolor Lacys may have a rare condition called color dilution alopecia or CDA which causes hair loss. Dogs that have this disease would have a normal-looking coat while still young but will start to develop bare patches in small areas or over the entire body as they get older. Today, the National Lacy Dog Association is in-charge in promoting and preserving the breed. [2]