| A New Zealand Huntaway | |||||||
| Other names | New Zealand Huntaway New Zealand Sheepdog |
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| Country of origin | New Zealand | ||||||
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| Dog (Canis lupus familiaris) | |||||||
The New Zealand Huntaway is a breed of dog used to drive sheep using their loud, deep bark. The breed is relatively new, dating as a distinct breed from the 1900s.[1]
Although now widely regarded as a separate breed, they are practical working dogs and as yet not recognised by any Kennel Club.
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Huntaways are large dogs that generally weigh in the region of 40-65 pounds (18–29.5 kg).[1] 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.[1]
Huntaways generally live to around 12 to 14 years of age.[1] They are intelligent,[1] friendly, very energetic, active dogs that require a lot of exercise.[1] They have been bred to muster in the hills and mountains of New Zealand where it is difficult to walk or ride, so hand signals and whistles are used to communicate commands to these dogs when they are at a distance. They are well known for being a noisy dog, especially when working.[2]
They are becoming increasingly popular worldwide with a New Zealand Huntaway Club started in Japan and huntaways being bred and used in Australia for work and yard dog trials.
Hunterville in the North Island of New Zealand is known for its statue of a Huntaway[3].