Appearance of the Blue Lacy
|
| The Blue Lacy can come in three color varieties, despite their name. Blues range from gray to almost black. Reds can be anywhere from light cream to brownish rust. Tris are tricolored and have a blue base coat with red and white markings along the belly, chin or legs. Their coat color tends to bring out their yellow or amber eyes beautifully. |
Temperament of the Blue Lacy
|
| The combination of intelligence and high energy that characterizes the Blue Lacy dog breed can lead them to be well-trained working dogs or destructive forces of nature, depending on the degree of mental and physical stimulation they receive. Blue Lacys can't be cooped up for very long, and when they get bored, they'll play as they please, even if that means chewing or digging things they're not supposed to. They'll need long runs every day and probably some extra exercise. Training is very useful and Blue Lacys responds very well to firm, positive training, although she is sensitive and doesn't respond well to howling or punishment. Training is essential for Blue Lacys and socialization must start early to overcome their natural prey drive and territorial nature. If not socialized early, Blue Lacys can be indifferent to strangers and downright aggressive towards other animals and pets. However, they are very kind and protective of their families, even children, and you'd be hard pressed to find a better watchdog. Because they've been bred to help with hunting and small game, they tend to bark, and it can take some time to get them to calm down once they've gone. They should not be left alone for long periods. When properly exercised and trained, the Blue Lacy makes an excellent, very loyal and affectionate family companion. They do best when they have a job where they can expend their physical and mental energy. When they have something to do that presents them with a suitable challenge, Blue Lacys are calm, gentle members of the family. |
Needs and activities of the Blue Lacy
|
| Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind is high energy. That's why they need several long runs and walks every day to consume all that energy. They often need work, hunting, herding, agility training, or acting as a watchdog, otherwise they risk becoming bored and acting out, as is the case with many intelligent, energetic dog breeds. Physical and mental stimulation is essential every day for the Blue Lacy. If you live in an apartment or don't have a task in mind for these dogs, you may want to look for another breed. Although the Blue Lacy is a loving family dog, it's not for novice owners, or families with small pets or very young children, as they have a strong prey drive and intensity. They need early socialization and competent training, although they are very sensitive and do not respond well to howling, harsh criticism or punishment. Highly territorial, somewhat wary of strangers and eager to chase anything that moves, Blue Lacys make excellent guard dogs, although socialization training is absolutely necessary so they know when to be on guard and when to be friendly with other animals and people. Blue Lacy will work as hard and tirelessly as you ask them to. They're perfectly suited to the farm and hunting work they've been bred for, as well as agility training or even search and rescue. If you know what you're doing, you'll have a well-trained, intelligent and adaptable companion who will do just about anything for you. |
Maintenance of the Blue Lacy
|
| The Blue Lacy's coat is short and smooth. There is little, if any, undercoat. Blue Lacys shed an average amount, although shedding is heavier seasonally. They require little grooming. A weekly brushing should suffice, and they should be bathed as needed. The Blue Lacy is generally a healthy, robust breed, although they are sometimes genetically predisposed to a few health problems. Blue Lacys sometimes suffer from hip or elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and food allergies. They can also develop skin conditions and, although rare, some may be born with color-dilution alopecia, a condition that can lead to hair loss in patches or all over the body. Care for Blue Lacys is fairly standard. Their nails should be trimmed monthly or as needed to prevent overgrowth. Their teeth need to be brushed regularly, and you should ask your vet about dental care for your dog. Their ears should be checked often for debris, ticks, parasites or signs of disease, and cleaned if necessary. |
English (United Kingdom)