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The Blue Lacy
Official State Dog Breed Of Texas
Click here to access: HCR108
Origins and History
Lacys were developed in the Texas Hill Country by the four Lacy brothers (Frank, George, Ewin, and Harry), who immigrated from Kentucky to Burnet County, Texas, in 1858. Traditional wisdom, as well as Lacy family history, holds that Lacys are the result of Greyhound/scent hound/coyote cross.
Multiple sources also suggested that the presence of Lacys in the Hill Country strongly influenced Fred Gipson, who was raised in adjacent Mason County and was best known for his novel Old Yeller. The Blue Lacy Game Dog filled the needs of colonial Americans for well over a century on ranches in the Southwestern US.
The decline of the family-owned ranching industry, as well as the introduction of technology such as all-terrain vehicles, brought the Lacy breed near extinction; however, its rediscovery as a masterful hunting companion has dramatically increased the demand for Lacys. They are now the most common breed used by United States Trappers.
Colors and Markings
The origin of the unusual slate blue coat and nose is a genetic rarity. All Lacy's have minimal to full white markings on their brisket and most of the time on paw or paws. The light gun-metal gray to almost black Lacy's are classified in color as blue. The red, yellow to cream Lacy's are classified in color as red.
The tri-colored Lacy's are blue with red markings over their eyes, on muzzle, under tail, and down the legs. They are classified in color as tri. Both the red and tri-colored Lacy's hold the name Blue Lacy due to the blue-color gene they possess. All Blue Lacy's eyes are very bright and distinctive orange to yellow in color. Which adds a unique touch to their appearance.
Handling and Care
Lacy's are easy to handle, spectacular workers and pets that are great with children. They are energetic and dedicated dogs, capable of handling the meanest longhorn cattle or most jittery of hens, taking the job instinctively, requiring no training. They are known to replace the work of a cowboy by five times. This breed is also used for hog hunting, finding wounded deer, and treeing game. Suitable for a watch dog.
Temperment
Can be sensitive to yelling. Most respond better to stern or soft commands.
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