Huntaway

Group: Working
Size: Medium – large
Lifespan: 12-14 Years
Exercise: High
Grooming: Low
Trainability: High
Area of Origin: New Zealand
Original Function: Sheep herding

History
While its exact origin is unknown, the first known written record of the Huntaway appeared in 1870 in the region of Upper Waitaki, where a sheepdog trial was known to have a Huntaway class. Furthermore, in 1884, in the Otago Daily Times newspaper, there were advertisements featuring the breed.
It was not until as recently as 2013 when the Huntaway dog was recognised by the New Zealand Kennel Club. However, because they are working dogs whose appearance has never been specifically bred for, creating a breed standard and showing the dog is just not an option at this stage. There is a huge variety in the appearance of this breed. The organisation also specified that the Huntaway should never be kept solely as a pet, but rather must continue to exist as a working dog.
When breeding a Huntaway, the breeder must focus exclusively on their ability and health, and never on their appearance which is insignificant to the breed. While best known in New Zealand, Huntaways are also used in Australia and Great Britain, and there has even recently been a Huntaway club started in Japan.

Temperament
Diligent workers, Huntaways are driven, obedient and extremely intelligent. They are renowned for their problem-solving ability and will excel at sheepdog trials. Their intelligence means that they can be quick to bore and do not enjoy repetitive tasks.
Built for their stamina and ability to be active for long periods of time, they will quickly become destructive and hyper if not given an adequate outlet for their high energy levels. Generally not well-suited to an indoor lifestyle, they much rather roam outside, and like to work in a pack rather than alone.
Despite the dedication to their work, they enjoy the company of humans, and respect their handler in particular, often forming a close bond with them. They do well with children, and are good with other animals, though may attempt to herd smaller creatures if given the opportunity. As they are shepherds by nature, and not watchdogs or guard dogs, they are very tolerant of strangers, and will often welcome them good-naturedly. While you might assume that Huntaways will bark incessantly, and that it would be problematic, anecdotally, they will rarely bark when not working.
In the right hands, this breed is a dream to train. Sharp on the uptake, and willing to learn, they will pick up on new commands and tricks remarkably quickly. It is true, however, that they can often be quite independent, and so benefit from a firm owner who is consistent and dedicated. Keeping their training interesting and varied is key for their continued interest and participation.

Upkeep
Given the purpose of this breed, it will come as no surprise that they need a large amount of exercise to keep them sane. As well as physical activity, they equally need suitable mental stimulation. Participating in a variety of activities, such as herding, agility and obedience will lead to a satisfied dog. Inevitably, an under-exercised Huntaway will become a nuisance in the home and may be destructive, hyper and badly behaved.
Due to the variety of coat types within this breed, each individual will have particular needs. In general though, this is a low maintenance breed that requires infrequent brushing and bathing only rarely.

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Huntaway at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

Rehomes & Rescues

Christchurch Border Collie Haven
Christchurch Border Collie Haven is a non profit rehoming and rescue organisation, helping collies and collie mixes to find the best homes, all over New Zealand
https://www.chchbordercolliehaven.org.nz/
Email: chchbordercolliehaven@gmail.com

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Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz & https://www.dogzone.com/breeds/huntaway/
Images sourced from Google Images.
No copyright infringement intended.