Dog breeds / Huntaway
Photo: Cgoodwin · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Dog breed
Huntaway
The Huntaway is a New Zealand working dog bred to drive sheep over long distances with a deep, carrying bark rather than by biting. At home it is typically steady, loyal, and very vocal, and it tends to stay close to its people. Many are good with children and other animals when raised with them, though their working instincts can make them want to herd running kids or pets, so supervision and early training help.
Day to day, a Huntaway needs a lot of physical activity and mental work. Long walks, fetch, and tasks that use its nose and drive keep it settled. Without a job to do, it can become restless and bark persistently, so it suits owners who will engage it daily rather than leave it alone in a yard.
Good for: Active owners with space and time for daily work
| Origin | New Zealand |
Living with a Huntaway
Exercise
Plan on at least one to two hours of activity daily, including long walks, running, and games. Working tasks or structured training are especially valuable for this breed.
Grooming
The double coat sheds heavily, especially seasonally, so brushing a few times a week and more during shedding periods helps. Bathing only as needed keeps the coat in good condition.
Health
Like many large working breeds, the Huntaway can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and other joint problems. Ask your vet about screening, and ask any breeder for health test results on the parents.
Questions owners ask
Do Huntaways shed a lot?
Yes. The double coat sheds heavily, particularly during seasonal changes. Regular brushing several times a week keeps shedding manageable.
Can a Huntaway live in an apartment?
It is generally not an ideal match. The breed needs a lot of exercise and mental work, and its loud bark can be a problem for neighbors.
Are Huntaways barkers?
Yes, barking is a core trait since the breed was developed to drive sheep with its voice. Training and enough activity can help manage it.
Good picks for a Huntaway
