The Lone Star State has no shortage of pride or state symbols. The Texas bluebonnet represents the state’s striking natural beauty; the modest but unflinching mockingbird is the state bird; and the Blue Lacy is the state’s chosen canine. If you haven’t heard of this breed, it’s time to meet these hardworking beauties!
Blue Lacy = a ranch dog at heart
The breed was developed in the mid-1800s by the Lacy brothers of Burnet County, and combines the bloodlines of various scent hounds, the Greyhound, and the coyote. These hunting and ranch dogs range from 18 to 25 inches tall and 25 to 50 pounds.
Blue Lacys are typically blue-gray, but can also wear red or cream coats, or combinations of these colors). Former Governor Rick Perry made the state dog designation official in 2005.
The breed represents the state well, embodying its tenacious and tireless work ethic, as well as its laid-back, friendly attitude toward life. Get to know a Blue Lacy, and you’ll quickly see how the breed checks all the boxes below.
The Blue Lacy might be part Matthew McConaughey
Much like one of the state’s homegrown celebrities, the Blue Lacy is up for whatever.
These dogs don’t spook easily. They’re trusting, easygoing, and always down for a good time. Try asking a Blue Lacy to join you on a long ride to parts unknown where you’ll encounter god knows what. She’ll just strap on her aviator shades and say, “All right, all right, all right.”
And also part Chevy pick-up
Every modern cowboy or cowgirl needs a heavy-duty pick-up and a Blue Lacy to tackle the endless work on a ranch. This breed is tough and can handle just about any job.
Because they were bred to herd cattle and hunt, these dogs have the build and stamina to run long distances, sprint and chase, and put in a hard day’s work.
Blue Lacys need an energetic sidekick
Because they were bred for tough jobs, Blue Lacys crave activity.
They thrive when paired with adventurous owners who love to get out and explore, hike, run, or hunt. More sedentary humans, loving as they may be, simply won’t provide enough activity and excitement for this high-intensity dog.
The Blue Lacy loves wide open spaces
They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that’s definitely true when it comes to real estate, which is how the Blue Lacy prefers it. This breed not only needs serious activity, but plenty of room to run, patrol, tend, and govern.
The ideal spot for a Blue Lacy is on a ranch with ample land to roam, but these dogs will do well in a moderate-sized home with a big yard. Confinement in a small apartment or dwelling will feel suffocating.
The classiest dog on the ranch
While they may be tough, hard-working, and covered in dirt after a full day’s labor, the Blue Lacy cleans up particularly well. The dog’s blue-gray coat is sleek and hearty, and gives off a gorgeous sheen.
Their distinct color is both alluring and mysterious, and their friendly nature makes them an ideal host or hostess when friends come over to kick back and relax.
All in all, the Blue Lacy captures the Texas spirit in a strong and striking canine form. Owners love the Blue Lacy’s disposition and good nature, as well as their appetite for excitement.
For more information
The Texas Lacy Game Dog Association
The National Lacy Dog Association
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Featured image via Flickr