Texas Lifestyle Series | State Dog of Texas | Blue Lacy

What is the State Dog of Texas?

The State Dog of Texas is a breed that is native to Texas and originated here. The Blue Lacy is believed to be the first dog breed to originate in the State of Texas. The Blue Lacy was originally bred to round up hogs and wild cattle. The Blue Lacy is recognized by the National Kennel Club as well as the American Blue Lacy Association, the American Canine Association, and the Dog Registry of America.

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The Blue Lacy can be other colors, but they generally have slate blue fur which is short and easy to groom. They can be multicolored and can range from red-yellow to gray-black; however all blue Lacys carry the recessive blue gene. Another distinct feature of the Blue Lacy is their expressive eyes which are usually intensely bright, almond-shaped, and range from orange to yellow in color. Their body shape is reminiscent of a greyhound and according to dog breed information they originated from greyhounds, scent hounds, and coyotes. See more Appearance and Grooming.

Blue Lacy History

The Blue Lacy is named for the Lacy family, which developed the breed for herding and hunting. The Lacy family, including George W. Lacy and his brothers, moved from Kentucky to Burnet County, Texas in 1858. The Blue Lacy was developed in the mid-1800s by the Lacy Brothers after settling near Granite Mountain in the Marble Falls area. The brothers quarried and sold granite from the mountain. George Lacy later donated red granite used to construct The Texas State Capitol building.

State Dog of Texas, Senate Resolution

First recognized and honored as a True Texas Breed in 2001 per SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 436 states in part: The Blue Lacy is a Texas native, a working dog, bred to play an essential role in ranch operations, and a dog whose original breeders played a critical part in the building of the State Capitol, and this proud heritage gives the Blue Lacy especially strong Texas credentials.

Governor Rick Perry signed the legislation adopting the Blue Lacy as “the official State Dog Breed of Texas” on June 18, 2005, that being House Concurrent Resolution No. 108, 79th Legislature, Regular Session (2005).

Popular Family Dog

The Blue Lacy was highly popular with colonial Americans, and some say they could outdo any cowboy on the range. As times have changed and ranching operations have dwindled their population dwindled as well almost to the point of extinction. However, they have become a most prized dog breed by US trappers for their ability to pick up the scent and trail of game animals. They have also played a significant role in search and rescue operations. They remain a popular family dog and when given room to move about freely they do quite well even without a specific job.

Blue Lacy Temperament and Personality

Blue Lacys are loyal, protective, confident dogs with the proper socialization and can be great family dogs. They are naturally energetic, highly intelligent, hardy animals. The Blue Lacy loves to work being specifically bred for ranching they are instinctively drawn to herding duties and make excellent hunting dogs. They are curious by nature and have a naturally powerful physic. Even though lightly built their physic is compact and balanced making them a perfect high endurance working dog.

Being highly intelligent dogs, they are easy to train and respond well to socialization. Introducing socialization at a young age with both people and other dogs is quite beneficial for both you and your Blue Lacy. Socialization helps to establish a bond and shows regular consistent leadership which helps prevent aggressiveness and shyness in the Blue Lacy. The Blue Lacy will benefit from regular training, and socialization routine even into adulthood.

One of the most enduring qualities of the Blue Lacy is its somewhat dignified and almost aristocratic demeanor as well as being a physically attractive dog. The Blue Lacy is especially well suited for active families and makes loyal protectors. Blue Lacys do not bark a lot and if they are barking more than usual it could be they are feeling threatened or trying to alert others of a threat or possibly a mishap.

The Blue Lacy responds well to strong verbal commands, and is an obedient, observant animal but does not respond well to yelling or scolding. They are eager to please their owner and positive reinforcement rather than a scolding is much more effective for a Blue Lacy.

Health and Exercise

The life expectancy of the Blue Lacy is about 16 years. They generally weigh between 30 to 60 pounds. Blue Lacy needs a lot of physical activity for optimal health. An active family or environment with plenty of space will be the best and healthiest alternative for a Blue Lacy. They make great companions for assertive masters and are not the best pick for novice dog owners.

The Blue Lacy needs a diet high in protein and nutrients to support its high activity levels. The Blue Lacy benefits from mental stimulation which makes them the great trackers that they are. Training games will help build their confidence and exercise their minds. These dogs are naturally sensitive and respond well to a patient, calm handler who can provide positive stimulation as well as boundaries.

Blue Lacy can be Slate Blue, Multicolored, Brown, Grey

Appearance and Grooming

The Blue Lacy can be other colors, but they generally have slate blue fur which is short and easy to groom. They can be multicolored and can range from red-yellow to gray-black; however all blue Lacys carry the recessive blue gene. Another distinct feature of the Blue Lacy is their expressive eyes which are usually intensely bright, almond-shaped, and range from orange to yellow in color. Their body shape is reminiscent of a greyhound and according to dog breed information they originated from greyhounds, scent hounds, and coyotes.

Their short coat and low shedding make them very low-maintenance dogs. They have very few genetic defects and are in general healthy dogs given the right environment. They are not well suited for apartment living or confined spaces. They need active informed owners who are willing to invest time in shaping their behaviors. They are highly driven, energetic dogs who need direction and socialization on a regular basis.

Group Designation: Herding and Hunting

A dog is a domestic mammal from the Canine family. The scientific name for a dog is Canis lupus familiaris. The Blue Lacy has been designated as a herding and hunting canine by The State of Texas and various dog breed Associations. Not only are they exceptional herding and hunting dogs, but they also make wonderful family dogs although better suited for suburbanites and farm families.

Blue Lacy has Expressive Eyes Ranging from Yellow to Orange

In Conclusion, State Dog of Texas

The Blue Lacy is one of the top dog breeds in Texas. They are popular with families and especially well-suited to farm, ranch, and hunting environments. This sweet intelligent dog is not for everyone but is perfect for the right owner who is willing to invest their time, patience, direction, and love. The Blue Lacy is eager to please, and will thrive with an active family who enjoys his energy, intelligence, and need for companionship in the great outdoors.