Breed History:

The Huntaway is a hardworking sheep-herding breed developed in New Zealand during the late 19th century. Farmers needed a dog capable of managing large flocks of sheep across steep hills and vast grazing lands where silent herding dogs were less effective.

To meet this need, breeders crossed several working breeds, including Border Collies, Collie-type dogs, and other strong farm dogs, creating a powerful herding dog that worked primarily using its loud bark rather than intense eye contact.

Unlike many traditional herding breeds, the Huntaway became famous for “barking” sheep over long distances and rough terrain. The breed remains one of New Zealand’s most respected and widely used farm dogs today.

Size: Large

Life Expectancy: 12–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The Huntaway is a large, athletic, and strongly built dog designed for stamina and endurance during long hours of farm work.

Because the breed was developed mainly for working ability rather than appearance, physical traits can vary slightly between individuals.

Common features include:

• Deep chest and muscular body

• Medium-length muzzle

• Drop ears

• Strong legs built for rough terrain

• Dense weather-resistant coat

Coat colours commonly include:

• Black and tan

• Black

• Tri-colour combinations

Most Huntaways have medium-length coats that protect them from changing weather conditions.

Breed Type – Herding/Working Dog:

The Huntaway is an energetic, intelligent, and highly driven working breed developed specifically for livestock management.

It is known for being:

• Extremely hardworking

• Loyal and cooperative

• Highly vocal while working

• Intelligent and quick-learning

• Energetic and determined

The breed thrives when given jobs, structure, and daily activity.

Huntaways are generally friendly with family members and often work well alongside humans and other dogs.

Training:

The Huntaway is highly trainable and eager to work, especially when training is active and rewarding.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Obedience and recall

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Impulse control

• Mental stimulation and task-based activities

The breed excels in:

• Herding work

• Agility

• Obedience

• Farm tasks

• Outdoor endurance activities

Because of its intelligence and energy, insufficient training or stimulation may lead to unwanted behaviours.

Health & Care:

The Huntaway is generally healthy and durable but may occasionally be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Joint strain injuries

• Obesity if under-exercised

• Ear infections in some dogs

Routine veterinary care, balanced nutrition, and maintaining proper fitness help support long-term health.

Its active working background contributes to strong endurance and resilience.

Living Conditions:

The Huntaway is best suited to active homes with access to large outdoor spaces.

Ideal environments include:

• Farms and rural properties

• Large fenced yards

• Active households with outdoor lifestyles

The breed is generally not suited to apartment living or sedentary homes.

Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, Huntaways may become bored, vocal, or destructive.

Exercise:

The Huntaway has very high exercise and activity requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Long walks or runs

• Herding activities

• Hiking and outdoor adventures

• Interactive games and fetch

• Obedience and agility training

Mental engagement is equally important due to the breed’s intelligence and work drive.

Grooming:

The Huntaway’s coat requires moderate maintenance.

• Weekly brushing to remove loose hair

• More frequent brushing during shedding seasons

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Routine nail trimming and ear cleaning

• Regular dental care

The coat naturally protects well against outdoor conditions.

Advantages:

• Extremely hardworking and energetic

• Intelligent and highly trainable

• Excellent herding abilities

• Loyal and cooperative temperament

• Hardy and adaptable outdoors

• Strong endurance and stamina

Disadvantages:

• Very high exercise and stimulation needs

• Naturally vocal and loud while working

• Not suitable for inactive owners

• May become destructive if bored

• Requires space and outdoor activity

• Strong herding instincts may lead to chasing behaviour