Origin and Purpose

The Huntaway, a large, sturdily-built herding dog, originates from New Zealand, where it is primarily used for sheep-herding tasks. This breed was developed to drive sheep over large distances using its deep, powerful bark combined with physical presence, a trait that has been favored for its effectiveness in rough, steep hill country where visibility is limited.

Developed in response to the farming conditions of the New Zealand high country, Huntaways are known for their intelligence, agility, and stamina, essential for working over vast distances and through challenging terrain. The breed's lineage is not definitively known, but it is believed to have been created by crossing British sheepdogs with other breeds, such as Collies, that possessed traits like size, stamina, and a steady barking ability.

The breed dates back to the late 19th century, with the first references to Huntaways appearing in advertisements for "huntaway sheepdogs" and heading and huntaway collies in the late 1880s. The New Zealand Sheep Dog Trial Association, recognizing the breed's unique working ability, registered only those dogs that won at trials, ensuring the breed's focus on herding efficiency. The first known trial for Huntaways took place in 1893 at the North Canterbury Sheep Dog Trial, with the first registered Huntaway named "Bob" being awarded a ribbon in the trial.

Physical Description

Huntaways are large dogs, with males typically weighing between 29-40 kg (65-88 lb) and females between 25-35 kg (55-77 lb). Males stand at a height of 61-66 cm (24-26 in), while females range from 56-63 cm (22-25 in). Their coats are medium-length and can vary in texture from smooth to rough or grizzly.

The breed's ears are generally floppy, and their heads are large and deep-chested, reflecting their strong build and herding capabilities. The eyes of Huntaways are often dark and expressive, which can be attributed to their Collie heritage. Huntaways have a distinctive long tail that is often curled over the back, which is a characteristic that sets them apart from other breeds.

The Huntaway's gait is powerful and efficient, developed for endurance over long distances. Their strong, well-muscled legs and substantial bones contribute to their robustness, making them well-suited to the rigorous demands of sheep herding.

Temperament and Characteristics

Characterized by an intelligent and energetic temperament, Huntaways are work-focused and loyal. They are highly adaptable, which makes them suitable for various environments and tasks. However, their low friendliness level and moderate shedding make them less ideal for individuals seeking a quiet, low-maintenance pet.

Owners of Huntaways often note their intense focus on work and their willingness to work tirelessly until the task is complete. This work ethic makes them excel in roles beyond herding, such as as search and rescue dogs or agility competitors. Their trainability is high, a result of their intelligence and work ethic. This trait, combined with their strong herding instincts, makes them excel in activities such as obedience training and agility.

However, due to their intense focus on work, Huntaways may not be the best choice for families looking for a dog that will be equally engaged in play and cuddling.

Health Considerations

While the Huntaway is a robust breed, it is not without its health concerns. A possible predisposition to dilated cardiomyopathy has been identified, a condition that affects the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Owners should be vigilant for symptoms such as lethargy, coughing, or difficulty breathing. Dilated cardiomyopathy has been observed in Huntaways since the late 20th century, with the first recorded case reported in the early 1980s.

Other hereditary diseases that may affect Huntaways include mucopolysaccharidosis, sub-aortic stenosis, black hair follicular dysplasia, and fetal anasarca.

Additionally, Huntaways are prone to certain types of joint disorders, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which can affect mobility and require appropriate management to ensure a good quality of life.

Breed Recognition and Standards

The Huntaway was recognized by the New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC) in August 2013, marking the first recognition of a dog breed of New Zealand origin. This recognition came after years of efforts by breed enthusiasts to have the breed officially recognized, which included demonstrating the breed's unique characteristics and working ability.

The NZKC standard for the Huntaway breed specifies that the breed should not be kept solely as a pet and that any changes to the official breed standard should be made only after consultation with the New Zealand Sheepdog Trial Association. This ensures that the breed remains focused on its primary purpose of herding rather than becoming a pet that conforms to aesthetic standards.

The New Zealand Sheep Dog Trial Association remains the governing body for the breed, and the standard for a Huntaway includes a minimum number of points that a dog must earn through herding trials. This reflects the breed's working origins and ensures that only dogs with the appropriate working ability are considered for registration.

Culture and Popularity

Huntaways are well-known for their role in New Zealand's farming history, particularly in the high country stations of the South Island. They have been bred to work in environments where worded commands and whistles are used to communicate, as they may be at a distance from their handlers. Their communication skills and loyalty have made them invaluable to farmers for generations.

As of 2016, Huntaways were the second most common breed of dog registered in New Zealand, after Labrador Retrievers. This popularity reflects their effectiveness in a variety of roles and their significant contribution to the country's agricultural heritage. The town of Hunterville in the North Island is known for its statue of a Huntaway, a tribute to the breed's significant contribution to New Zealand's agricultural heritage.

Outside of New Zealand, the Huntaway has gained recognition in other countries as a versatile and capable working dog, although it remains less common compared to other herding breeds. Its unique blend of intelligence, energy, and herding instincts has made it a popular choice for those interested in dog sports and agricultural work.

Buying a Huntaway

Be prepared for the costs associated with owning a Huntaway, including food, veterinary care, and potential treatments for hereditary conditions. The cost of food alone for a Huntaway can range from $60 to $100 per month, depending on the quality of food and the dog's size.

• Research breeders and ask about the health history of their dogs.
• Ensure you have access to open spaces for exercise and training. Huntaways require daily exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and mental health.
• Be prepared for the financial commitment of owning a large, energetic dog.
• Consider the time and effort required for proper training and socialization. Huntaways are intelligent and eager to please, but they also need consistent training and positive reinforcement to develop into well-behaved companions.