Blue Lacy

The Blue Lacy breed is named after the Lacy brothers Frank, George, Ewin, and Harry Lacy, who moved from Kentucky to Texas United States in the mid-1800s. They needed an all-around working dog to herd free-roaming hogs and cattle, track and tree small game, hunt wild deer and hogs, and guard the homestead. The dog breed had to be fast, hardworking, trainable, and resilient to Texas weather.

According to the Lacy family, the dog breed was created by mixing Wolf, Greyhound, English Shepherd, and possibly Coyote. Another scent hound was also included in the mix. The focus was on enhancing herding instincts.

This helped the dogs drive livestock to market effectively. The Blue Lacy has since remained a true Texas breed, rare outside the state.

The Blue Lacy combines intelligence and high energy, making it an exceptional working dog when properly stimulated. They are easy to train and thrive with firm, positive training methods. Due to their sensitive nature, they respond poorly to yelling or punishment. 

With early socialization, they develop into loyal, protective family pets who are especially kind to children. Blue Lacys are known for their strong bond with their families. When given adequate mental and physical challenges, they become calm, loving household members.

• Potential Challenges

Blue Lacys require significant mental and physical stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors like chewing or digging. Their prey drive and territorial nature can lead to aggression toward other animals without early training and socialization. These purebred dogs need long daily runs and additional exercise to stay content. 

Their tendency to bark, rooted in their hunting background, can be difficult to manage. Additionally, they don’t tolerate being left alone for extended periods and are best suited to homes where they can have a job or purpose.

The Blue Lacy has a sleek, athletic build with a slightly domed head and a tapered muzzle. Their almond-shaped eyes come in shades of orange, yellow, or amber, and their medium-set, folded ears have a triangular shape. A muscular neck leads to strong shoulders, a straight topline, sturdy forelegs, and a well-sprung chest with a moderately tucked belly.

• Size

The Blue Lacy typically stands between 17 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs around 25 to 50 pounds. Their medium build and athletic frame make them highly agile and well-suited for active tasks, such as working as herding dogs and hunting. This size allows them to balance strength with speed, a hallmark of their working dog heritage.

• Coat color

The Blue Lacy comes in three distinct color varieties. “Blues” range from gray to nearly black. “Reds” can be light cream or reddish-brown. “Tris” has a blue base coat with red markings. They also have white accents on the belly, chin, or paws. Their vibrant yellow or amber eyes stand out beautifully against these coat colors. The breed’s coat is short, smooth, and typically lacks an undercoat.

1. Blue and Tan Lacy- Source: Wikipedia
2. Blue Lacy- Source: gandalf_thegreydog
3. Reddish Brown Lacy- Source: thechadhouts

The Blue Lacy typically stands 17 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Males are generally larger, weighing 35 to 55 pounds, while females usually range from 25 to 45 pounds. Some individuals may fall outside these ranges.

In terms of temperament, males tend to be more assertive and independent, while females are often slightly more affectionate and eager to please. However, both genders are highly energetic, and intelligent, and require consistent training and socialization.

A Blue Lacy typically needs 3 cups per day of food, formulated for medium-sized breeds with high energy and intense exercise needs. Along with high-quality dog food, you can offer vegetables and fruits like watermelon, carrots, and green beans as healthy treats in moderation. 

It's important to consult your veterinarian or a professional nutritionist to determine the best food and portion sizes for your Blue Lacy. As they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years, their dietary needs will change, so staying on top of these requirements is essential.

The Blue Lacy is a generally healthy breed, but they may be susceptible to a few health issues. Here are the key health concerns and how to manage them:

• Hip Dysplasia: This genetic condition occurs when the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to instability and potential arthritis. To help prevent hip dysplasia, provide your Blue Lacy with regular exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid high-impact activities like excessive jumping, especially during Lacy puppyhood.
• Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is a developmental condition in which the elbow joint doesn’t form properly, leading to lameness and pain. Preventive measures include providing a balanced diet, managing one's weight, and avoiding excessive or strenuous activities that could strain one's joints during the growing phase.
• Hypothyroidism: In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, causing symptoms like lethargy, weight gain, and skin problems. Regular vet check-ups and blood tests can help detect hypothyroidism early, and it can be managed with lifelong medication prescribed by a veterinarian.
• Food Allergies: Blue Lacys can develop food allergies, which may cause skin irritation, digestive upset, or other symptoms. To manage food allergies, work with a vet to identify the allergens and provide a hypoallergenic diet or eliminate specific ingredients that trigger symptoms.
• Skin Conditions: Skin conditions, such as dermatitis or hot spots, can occur due to allergies or infections. Regular grooming, ensuring their coat is clean, and using vet-recommended skin treatments can help keep these issues in check.
• Color Dilution Alopecia: Some Blue Lacys may inherit color dilution alopecia, leading to hair loss, typically around the body or in patches. While there is no cure, good grooming and keeping the skin healthy can help manage the condition, and in severe cases, veterinary advice for possible treatments or interventions may be necessary.

Regular vet visits, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent and manage these conditions, ensuring your Blue Lacy stays in top shape.

Caring for Blue Lacys is relatively straightforward. Their nails should be trimmed monthly, or as needed, to prevent overgrowth. Regular teeth brushing is important, and it's a good idea to consult your veterinarian about your dog's specific dental care needs. Their ears should be checked frequently for debris, ticks, parasites, or signs of infection, and cleaned as necessary.

Blue Lacys shed moderately, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. They require minimal grooming, with a weekly brushing being sufficient, and should be bathed as needed.

As an active breed, Blue Lacys have high exercise needs. They thrive with regular, intense physical activity, such as long runs or engaging in tasks that challenge their energy and intelligence. For optimal results in training, refer to dog training tips that focus on consistency and positive reinforcement.

The Blue Lacy is available for sale at an average cost ranging from $400 to $1,000. The price can vary depending on factors such as the dog's lineage, breeder reputation, and location. It's important to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of the puppies to ensure a well-socialized and healthy dog.

Lusty Crain Blue Lacy

Magnum Blue Lacy Dogs

Adopting a Blue Lacy through a rescue organization is a great way to give a dog in need a loving home. Rescue dogs are often more affordable than purchasing from a breeder, and adopting helps reduce the number of homeless pets. Be sure to connect with a reputable rescue group to find a Blue Lacy that matches your family and lifestyle.

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• In 2005, the Blue Lacy was recognized official state dog of Texas and has since become an important part of Texan culture.
• The Blue Lacy, also known as the Lacy Game Dog, is prized for its versatility and intelligence in various working roles.

The Blue Lacy is best suited for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities and have the time to provide mental and physical stimulation. They thrive in homes with ample space, such as those with large yards or access to open areas for exercise. Experienced dog owners who can provide firm, consistent training will find the Blue Lacy to be a loyal and capable companion.