There are a few dog breeds that have the word “blue” in their name. This refers to dogs that have a grayish-blue coat coloration. Here are some of the most popular dog breeds with “blue” in their name:
Blue Heeler
The Australian Cattle Dog, often called the Blue Heeler, is a breed developed in Australia for herding cattle. These medium-sized dogs have a black and blue mottled coat. The blue refers to the gray/blue patches on the fur. Some key facts about the Blue Heeler:
- Originally called “Hall’s Heeler” after the Hall brothers who helped develop the breed in the 1800s.
- Used by Australian ranchers to herd cattle over long distances.
- Energetic working dogs that need daily exercise and mental stimulation.
- Intelligent, loyal, and protective of their family.
- Height ranges from 17-20 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Weigh 30-50 pounds fully grown.
The Blue Heeler is known for being an active herding breed that bonds closely with their family. Their name comes from their bluish colored coats and ability to nip at the heels of cattle to get them moving.
Blue Lacy
The Blue Lacy is the official dog breed of Texas. It originated in the mid-1800s as a working dog bred to herd livestock, especially feral hogs. Some key facts about the Blue Lacy:
- Named after the Lacy brothers who helped develop the breed in Texas.
- Intelligent, energetic, and needs a job to do.
- Allow coat colors include blue, red, and tricolor (blue, red, and white).
- Has a short, smooth coat that sheds minimally.
- Males range from 18-21 inches tall, females 17-20 inches.
- Weigh between 30-50 pounds.
The Blue Lacy is alert, smart, and enjoys working. They make excellent hunting and herding dogs, especially in Texas where they originated.
Blue Picardy Spaniel
The Blue Picardy Spaniel hails from France and is one of the rarest spaniel breeds. Here’s an overview:
- Developed in France in the early 1900s as a hunting dog.
- Known for having a grayish-blue speckled coat.
- Close cousin to the Picardy Spaniel but has the dilute blue coat.
- Excellant nose and stamina for finding and retrieving birds.
- Has a calm, gentle temperament in the home.
- Males stand 22-24 inches tall, females 21-23 inches.
The Blue Picardy nearly went extinct after World Wars I and II but breeders revived the population in the 1980s. It remains a rare breed even in France today.
Blue Nose Pitbull
The Blue Nose Pitbull is a type of American Pitbull Terrier that has a signature grayish-blue nose and coat. Key facts:
- Result of a recessive gene that causes the blue coloring.
- Controversial origins – some think they come from American Pitbull bloodlines, others say English Staffordshire Terriers.
- Bred to be loyal, protective family companions.
- Athletic, strong, and energetic.
- Need consistent training and socialization.
- Males are 18-21 inches tall, 40-65 pounds.
The Blue Nose Pitbull has the same temperament as other Pitbulls but their unique coloration and mysterious history attracts many potential owners.
Blue Blood Cane Corso
The Blue Blood Cane Corso is a rare color variant of the Cane Corso mastiff breed from Italy. Here’s an overview:
- Cane Corsos typically come in black, gray, red, or brindle coats.
- Blue Blood has a distinctive gray coat with a blue tinge.
- Originated as a farm guardian of livestock and property.
- Powerful, muscular build.
- Males are 25-27.5 inches tall, 99-110 pounds.
- Needs consistent training and socialization.
- Wary of strangers but devoted to their family.
The Blue Blood Cane Corso has the impressive stature and protective nature of the Cane Corso breed in an uncommon coloration.
Comparison of Blue Dog Breeds
| Breed | Origin | Coat | Size | Temperament |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Heeler | Australia | Black & blue speckled | Medium | Smart, energetic, loyal |
| Blue Lacy | United States | Blue, red, or tricolor | Medium | Intelligent, active, protective |
| Blue Picardy Spaniel | France | Grayish-blue speckled | Medium | Calm, gentle, excellent hunter |
| Blue Nose Pitbull | United States | Grayish-blue | Medium-large | Loyal, energetic, athletic |
| Blue Blood Cane Corso | Italy | Grayish-blue | Large | Trainable, powerful, protective |
This table compares some key traits of breeds that have a blue coat color. While the origin and size varies, they tend to have loyal, energetic temperaments. The blue coloration itself does not influence temperament – it is simply a coat color gene.
Unique Traits of Blue Dogs
While coat color alone doesn’t directly impact behavior, many blue dog breeds share some interesting traits:
- Often have an athletic, muscular build for dynamic movements needed in herding or hunting.
- Intelligent and highly trainable when properly motivated.
- Strong loyalty and protective instincts towards their family and home.
- Hard-working attitudes and energetic natures.
- Strong prey drive in many blue herding and hunting dog breeds.
The blue coat color is often seen in active working dog breeds. While individual personalities vary, blue dog breeds tend to be smart, driven dogs ready for action. They excel at canine jobs like herding, hunting, sporting, and guarding.
Health Issues in Blue Dogs
Blue dog breeds are prone to some health issues, especially those related to their color genetics:
- Alopecia – Blue dogs can suffer from color dilution alopecia which causes hair loss.
- Skin Problems – Allergies, dry skin, and sun sensitivity may be seen.
- Deafness – Congenital deafness is common in some blue dogs like the Blue Heeler.
- Eye Problems – Increased risk of developing certain eye diseases.
- Joint Issues – Some lines have hip dysplasia and joint problems.
Reputable breeders screen their blue dogs for conditions like deafness and only breed the healthiest dogs. Buyers should ask about health clearances.
Finding a Blue Dog Breeder
Those interested in purchasing a blue puppy from a breeder should do their research to find ethical breeders who prioritize health and temperament. Here are some tips:
- Check that the breeder does all recommended OFA health tests for the breed.
- Breeder should ask you questions to ensure the dog matches your lifestyle.
- Ask to see parents on premises and their health clearances.
- Breeder focuses on breeding healthy, sound temperament dogs, not just color.
- Meet the puppies in person before adopting if possible.
- Get references from past puppy buyers.
Finding a responsible blue dog breeder requires diligence, patience, and research. Avoid those who make guarantees just on coat color alone. The breeder should breed for total health and temperament.
Conclusion
Dog breeds with blue in their name have a specific grayish-blue coat but vary widely in size, origins, and purpose. Blue Heelers, Blue Lacies, Blue Picardy Spaniels, Blue Nose Pitbulls, and Blue Blood Cane Corsos all make striking additions to an active family. While prone to some genetic health issues, these breeds offer loyal companionship to the right owners able to meet their needs for exercise and training. Those interested in adopting one of these unique blue dogs should take time finding a reputable breeder focused on more than coat color alone.