Huntaway
Also known as New Zealand Huntaway · New Zealand Sheepdog
New Zealand, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 56–66 cm
- Weight
- 25–45 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Vocal
- Tireless
- Intelligent
- Friendly
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Huntaway is a big, deep-chested New Zealand sheepdog that drives flocks with a loud, deep, repeated bark rather than working silently. It is bred purely for working ability, so its looks vary, but most are black and tan with drop ears. It is one of the most common dogs in New Zealand and rare elsewhere.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 56–66 cm
- Adult weight
- 25–45 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
12–14 years
Most Huntaways live 12–14 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Huntaways are intelligent, friendly and full of stamina, and they love to work. They are noisy by design, which is a challenge in suburbs, and the working community feels strongly that they should not be kept purely as pets.
- Vocal
- Tireless
- Intelligent
- Friendly
Food
For a typical 35 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,610 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.4 L–2.1 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayThey need a great deal of exercise and real work; a couple of walks a day will not satisfy most dogs.
Grooming & shedding
The smooth or rough coat needs a weekly brush.
Health
Unless you farm or can offer serious daily activity, this breed is hard to keep happy. Expect barking and plan training around it. A predisposition to dilated cardiomyopathy has been suggested, and several inherited conditions have been identified, so ask breeders about health screening.
The breed can be prone to
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Mucopolysaccharidosis
- Sub-aortic stenosis
- Black hair follicular dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Heart examination
- Hip and elbow scoring
- MPS DNA test
Not every Huntaway is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Settlers' British sheepdogs mostly worked quietly, but on New Zealand's steep, open high-country stations dogs that barked to drive sheep proved useful. Farmers crossed collies showing this trait with other dogs for size and stamina, and Huntaway classes were running at sheepdog trials by the 1870s. It became the first New Zealand-bred breed recognised by the national kennel club in 2013.
- Country of origin
- New Zealand
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the New Zealand Kennel Club since 2013; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Huntaway right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Huntaway FAQ
How big does a Huntaway get?
Adult Huntaways typically stand about 56–66 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–45 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Huntaways live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Huntaway need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Huntaway need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Huntaways easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Huntaways shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Huntaways good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Huntaway live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Huntaways have?
The breed can be prone to dilated cardiomyopathy, mucopolysaccharidosis, sub-aortic stenosis. Not every Huntaway is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.