The Blue Lacy breed was originally developed in Texas during the mid-1800s by four brothers—George, Ewin, Frank, and Harry Lacy—who needed a versatile working dog to assist them with herding cattle and hogs. According to the Texas Lacy Game Dog Association (TLGDA), this breed is believed to be a mix of Greyhounds, scent hounds, and even coyotes.
Highly effective as herders and hunting companions, Blue Lacys became indispensable on Texas ranches, with claims that a single dog could perform the work of five cowboys. However, as ranching declined, the demand for these dogs dwindled, and their population decreased significantly. By 1975, the breed was on the verge of extinction, but the Blue Lacy has since made a remarkable comeback thanks to efforts to preserve it. In 2005, it was officially recognized as the state dog of Texas.
These medium-sized dogs stand about 18–25 inches tall and weigh between 30–50 pounds. They carry a unique blue-color gene, with short, glossy coats that come in three color categories: blue (ranging from gun-metal gray to nearly black), red (which includes shades of red, yellow, and cream), and tricolored (blue with red markings).
Caring for a Blue Lacy
The Blue Lacy’s history as a ranch dog is central to its temperament and needs. The Lacy Game Dog Registry describes them as “spectacular working dogs” that are “energetic and dedicated.”
While they can make great family pets, they require significant mental and physical exercise daily. A home with ample outdoor space for running is ideal, as they are not well-suited for apartment living. Blue Lacys are known to bark—a useful trait for working dogs, but potentially less desirable for household pets.
Though reserved around strangers, Blue Lacys are generally gentle with familiar children. They thrive on learning and respond well to positive, reward-based training. As with many working breeds, grooming is relatively simple. They only need occasional brushing to maintain their sleek coats.
Blue Lacy Health Issues
Being a rare breed, there is limited data on the Blue Lacy’s health issues. However, they are considered generally healthy with a lifespan of up to 16 years.
Some conditions have been observed in the breed, including:
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is an allergic skin condition where the skin’s outer layer malfunctions, causing inflammation due to contact with allergens like pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and dander. Dogs may also be allergic to fleas. The most common sign is itchiness, and while it’s often seasonal, it can become chronic. Affected dogs tend to lick, chew, or scratch their skin, which can cause further irritation, discoloration, and hair loss. Treatment options include topical therapies, immunotherapy, oral medications, and injections to improve the dog’s quality of life.
Food Allergies
Dogs with food allergies may experience an immune response to certain ingredients, usually proteins. This can lead to skin irritation, itching, swelling, and redness, as well as gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or vomiting. The most common treatment is switching to an allergy-friendly diet, though some dogs may also benefit from allergy medications.
Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA)
Though uncommon, some Blue Lacys can develop color dilution alopecia, which is more frequently seen in dogs with blue coats. Symptoms include thinning patches of hair, bald spots, irritated or flaky skin, and itchiness. While CDA is a lifelong condition, it can be managed with specific shampoos, ointments, and medications.
Feeding a Blue Lacy
Each Blue Lacy has different dietary needs, so it’s essential to work with a veterinarian to choose the right food for your dog’s age, size, and health history.
Most adult dogs do well with two meals daily, while Blue Lacy puppies often need a third feeding due to their higher metabolism. For exact feeding amounts, consult your vet, who can adjust recommendations based on your dog’s weight, lifestyle, and overall health. Remember that treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
If your Blue Lacy is eating a nutritionally complete and balanced diet, they generally won’t need supplements unless recommended by a vet for specific health conditions like allergies.
Blue Lacy Personality and Temperament
Blue Lacys are intelligent, energetic, and adaptable. Bred to be efficient working dogs, they need plenty of physical and mental activity, as well as close companionship with their owners. Without this stimulation, they may develop undesirable behaviors, such as excessive barking or destructive chewing.
Though originally bred to herd livestock, well-socialized Blue Lacys can be gentle with children and interact well with people of all ages. However, they may be initially reserved around strangers.
Blue Lacy Training and Behavior
Because of their high energy and working-dog instincts, Blue Lacys require early socialization and consistent training. It’s essential to expose them to different people, animals, and environments during their first 16 weeks of life. This early exposure helps them feel more comfortable in diverse settings.
Training a Blue Lacy is easier when using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, toys, or play as rewards. If treats are used during training, be mindful of their caloric intake to avoid overfeeding.
Fun Activities for Blue Lacy Dogs
- Running
- Hiking
- Agility training
- Scent work
- Herding
- Hunting
- Tracking
- Fetch
- Obedience and skills training
Grooming a Blue Lacy
Despite their high energy, Blue Lacys require minimal grooming. Their short, smooth coats are easy to maintain and only need occasional brushing. However, they are prone to skin issues, so keep an eye out for symptoms like itchiness or redness. It’s important not to over-bathe them, as too many baths can strip away their natural skin oils.
Blue Lacys have no known predispositions to eye issues, but their floppy, triangular ears can be prone to infections. Regular ear cleaning, as recommended by a veterinarian, can help prevent infections.
