Huntaway

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance dog, this is the one for you. They almost look after themselves, especially if they are farm dogs. 

They do shed, particularly during the summer months — so you’ll want to brush them around once a week. They may need the occasional bath with a specifically designed dog shampoo but to remove dirt or dust you can just rub them down with a soft damp cloth. You shouldn’t bathe them too often as the natural oil on their skin is what gives them the ability to withstand climate changes when outside. 

You also need to check their folded ears for infection, brush their teeth regularly and trim their nails when necessary. 

The Huntaway needs an active family as they have a lot of energy. If they’re a companion dog rather than a working dog, they will need at least one long walk every day. As they’re bred to work, they’ll enjoy games that challenge them. They respond well to training and love learning something new. 

An apartment isn’t suitable for this dog as they need plenty of space. A large fenced yard in the countryside will suit them best.

Huntaway health risks 

Huntaway dogs are generally quite a healthy, tough breed that don’t have many health issues. Any health problems they do have are usually caused by their work. But, they do have some inherited health conditions you need to be aware of. 

One major concern with this breed is bone cancer. There’s also a chance of hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. You also need to be aware of their ear health, and watch for any possible signs of infection. But, these are all minor concerns. They can also occasionally have eye problems. 

Does your pet insurance cover conditions such as bone cancer? Browse and compare top pet insurance providers to ensure you have the best cover for your dog. 

Bone Cancer 

The most common bone tumor is osteosarcoma — it can affect any bone in any dog but is most likely to occur in the leg bone of larger breeds. It’s one of the most serious cancers;  it’s difficult to remove and can spread quickly. At first it may look like a swollen or hard area on the dog's leg and you may notice them limping. It can also break easily. They need to be seen by a vet as soon as possible if you suspect this. They will X-ray the leg and perform a biopsy. The treatment will depend whether the cancer has been caught early or not. 

Feeding a Huntaway - what’s the best diet?

Huntaways are large and active dogs with a lot of energy. They can be fed high-quality dry food with protein as the main ingredient. The protein in your Huntaway’s dog food will contribute to their strong muscles and healthy bones — which is particularly important in a breed that is at risk of bone cancer. You’ll find some are specifically formulated for working breeds. Look for ‘active’ or ‘working’ on the packaging. 

Puppies should be fed four times a day, then once your Huntaway is an adult you can reduce this to twice a day. 

You’ll want your Huntaway to have the best possible diet. To help, check out our friends over at Dog Food Advisor for advice including the best large breed dog food and the best large breed puppy food.