Huntaway

Infobox Dogbreed
name= Huntaway


image_caption= A New Zealand Huntaway
altname= New Zealand Huntaway
New Zealand Sheepdog
country= New Zealand
notrecognized= yes| The Huntaway is a breed of dog that dates as a distinct breed from the 1900s. Although Huntaways are generally regarded as a breed they are not recognized by the New Zealand Kennel Clubs. A Huntaway is also known as a New Zealand sheepdog and is used to drive sheep away from the stockman. It uses its loud, deep bark to muster mobs of sheep and is well known for being a noisy dog, especially when working.

Appearance

Huntaways are large dogs that generally weigh in the region of 55-80 pounds (25-36 kg). Their coats can vary in colour; colours include black, black and tan (usually) with some white or brindle. Their coats can also come in different textures; they can be smooth, rough, or grizzly and they are generally floppy eared. A huntaway’s height is usually about 20-24 inches (51-61 cm) tall.

General information

Huntaway dogs can be expected to live to around 12 to 14 years old. They are intelligent, friendly, very energetic, active dogs that require a lot of exercise. They are often expected to help muster in the hills and mountains of New Zealand where it is difficult to walk or ride. Hand signals or a small high pitched plastic whistle are often used to communicate commands to these dogs when they are at a distance from their handler.

Hunterville in the North Island of New Zealand is famous for its statue of a Huntaway sheep dog.

A New Zealand Huntaway Club has commenced in Japan. Some Huntaway dogs are bred and used in Australia for work and yard dog trials.

External links

* [http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/newzealandhuntaway.htm Dog breed info]
* [http://www.huntawayclub.co.uk/ Huntaway Club UK]
* [http://www.burkesbackyard.com.au/2003/archives/2003?p=3703 General Huntaway Information]
* [http://www.marton.co.nz/hunterville/hunterville2.htm Hunterville Dog]