A Texas Original

The Blue Lacy

By: Nealie Sanchez

Editor In Chief

Thirteen U.S. states have named a state dog, and Texas has named the Blue Lacy.

Brothers Frank, George, Edwin and Harry Lacy developed the Blue Lacy breed in the mid-1800s in Texas' Burnet County for the purpose of herding the cattle and hogs bred on their ranch. An act of necessity for these brothers in the 19th century led to years of history for this iconic working dog breed. The House Concurrent Resolution No. 108 states "[...] like the Texas longhorn, the Blue Lacy is a Texas original [...]" and, with a final signature from Gov. Rick Perry on June 18, 2005, this document proclaimed the adoption of the Blue Lacy as the official State Dog Breed of Texas.

Blue Lacys were used on Southwest ranches for around 100 years. According to 79(R) HCR 108, Blue Lacys have been said to be able to "do the work of five cowboys" as they are "energetic, fast, eager to work and easy to train and handle." The hardworking breed was a staple on most ranches and farm s herding large and small animals until working dog became less commonplace among ranches as time passed. The breed, better suited for working situations, nearly disappeared with this shift among ranchers spurring a movement to save the Blue Lacy in 1975.

Blue Lacy

Wikimedia Commons

Breed Characteristics

Blue Lacys are said to be a mix of Greyhound, Scent-Hound and Coyote Stock. The breed is officially recognized by the National Kennel Club, Continental Kennel Club, Universal Kennel International, Lacy Game Dog Registry, Texas Lacy Game Dog Association and American Pet Registry, Inc.

Fully grown Blue Lacys are 18-25 inches tall, weigh 30-50 pounds and are characterized by a sleek gray, red or tri-color coat. (However, the Blue Lacy can also have white chest or paw markings.) Regardless of their color, Blue Lacys all share a natural herding instinct and high intelligence, making them easy to train.

The Blue Lacy's working dog trait makes it easy for these dogs to work everything from chickens to Texas Longhorn cattle, according to State Symbols USA. Because of this, Lacys need to live on land with room to run and thrive in challenging roles on the ranch.

Grooming

Grooming a Blue Lacy is relatively simple maintenance. According to Vet Street, it is best to brush or comb the coat weekly to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils, and bathe as needed. Additionally, like most breeds the Blue Lacy require basic nail trims every three to four weeks and standard toothbrushing for oral health.

Blue Lacy

Wikimedia Commons

Texas Treasure

Texas' ranching roots, cowboy culture and true southern spirit are all reasons the Blue Lacy came to exist and continues to be. Whether you call them a Blue Lacy, Lacy Dog, Lacy Game Dog, Texas Blue Lacy or a Lacy Hog Dog — they'll come when you call.

There are several organizations dedicated to the preservation and rescue of Blue Lacys. Texas Dog Magazine encourages readers to contact official organizations about the adoption of Blue Lacys to ensure that their family and home are an appropriate fit for this working breed.

Twitter: @NealieSanchez