Huntaway

Also called New Zealand Huntaway, New Zealand Sheepdog

Recognised breedShort profile

From New Zealand, developed on the large high-country sheep stations.1

At a glance the quick version

Weight25 to 40 kg1

Height56 to 66 cm1

Sizelarge

hard-working

intelligent

powerful carrying voice

Coat and looks how to spot one

smooth or rough coat

A big, deep-chested, athletic working dog whose coat can be smooth and short or rougher and grizzled.1

Coloursblack and tantricolour1

Personality what they are like

A clever, agile and tireless sheepdog, bred to work with a lot of independence over huge stretches of hill country.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Very high: bred to work long days across steep, rough country, so it needs lots of exercise and ideally a real job.1

Home where they are happiest

Best suited to farms or rural homes with plenty of space.1

The story where it all began

The Huntaway was shaped in the late 1800s to cope with New Zealand's vast, unfenced high-country stations. References to the type go back to around 1870, and farmers were advertising for huntaways by 1884. Dogs were chosen for working ability and voice rather than looks.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Unlike most herding dogs, the Huntaway moves sheep mainly with its loud, deep bark.1
2
Its bark comes in steady, repeated bursts with short pauses, so it can keep calling for long periods.1
3
The North Island town of Hunterville has a statue in honour of the Huntaway.1
4
In 2016 it was the second most registered breed in New Zealand, after the Labrador Retriever (per Wikipedia).1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Huntaway is also known as the New Zealand Huntaway, a breed developed in New Zealand for herding sheep, using its loud, deep bark to drive them.1

Name ideas for your new friend

MusterTussockRuruKeaPounamuHillsTuiRoamSummitFernHakaBreeze

A day in the life told by a Huntaway

The sun peeks over the hill, and I'm already up. My human whistles, and I spring into a wide arc, gathering the sheep with a sharp bark. We move as one across the paddock, my nose reading the wind. At midday, I rest in the shade of a macrocarpa, watching the lambs. After a splash in the creek, we head home. I curl at my human's feet as they pat my head. 'Good dog,' they say. I wag my tail once, then close my eyes, dreaming of tomorrow's run.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

New Zealand Kennel Club (Dogs NZ): Recognised in August 2013, the first recognition of a dog breed of New Zealand origin (per Wikipedia).1

Popularity Second most popular registered breed in New Zealand, after the Labrador Retriever1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Huntaway. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Frozen Yoghurt & Berry Kong Stuffing

A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.

You need

120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)

How

Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
Give to your dog as a supervised treat.

How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Simple Apple & Carrot Crunchies

Crunchy, low-calorie treats that help clean teeth and provide vitamins. Apple and carrot are safe for dogs in moderation and are naturally sweet.

You need

1 medium apple (cored, seeds removed)
1 medium carrot

How

Wash the apple and carrot thoroughly.
Core the apple and remove all seeds (seeds contain trace cyanide).
Slice both into thin, bite-sized pieces suitable for your dog’s size.
Serve raw as a crunchy treat, or lightly steam the carrot if your dog prefers softer textures.

How much: Give a few slices per day for a large/giant dog, ensuring treats make up no more than 10% of daily calories.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Huntaway, and at what times?

Adult Huntaways do well with at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feeding at the same times each day helps their digestion. Check the food label for amounts and ask your vet for a schedule tailored to your dog.2

What should a Huntaway eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid giving them human treats like these.3

How often should I bathe a Huntaway?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if they get very dirty. At least once every three months is a good general rule. Use a gentle dog shampoo and rinse well.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Huntaway need brushing?

Brush your Huntaway weekly to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy. This is especially helpful for the rougher-coated variety. Regular brushing also helps you check for any skin issues.4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Huntaway's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Huntaway need?

Huntaways have very high energy and need lots of daily exercise, ideally with a job to do. Daily walks and play are essential, and they thrive on activities like herding or agility. A tired Huntaway is a happy one.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Huntaway's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily with dog toothpaste, and check their ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Their floppy ears can trap moisture, so dry them gently after baths or swimming. Never push anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Huntaway live?

Lifespan varies by individual and care, so ask your vet for a general estimate. With good nutrition, exercise, and regular vet check-ups, they can enjoy many active years. Senior care usually starts around age 7. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Huntaway good with children and other pets?

Huntaways are clever and tireless, but their suitability with children and other pets depends on training and socialization. They are bred to work independently, so early, positive introductions are key. Consult a good breeder or trainer for guidance.1

Can a Huntaway be left alone?

Huntaways are working dogs that thrive on activity and companionship, so they may struggle with long periods alone. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation before being left. If you're away often, consider a dog walker or daycare.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.