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Huntaway
Herding breed from New Zealand
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Huntaway
The Huntaway is a large, sturdily-built herding dog from New Zealand, known for its deep, powerful bark used to drive sheep over large distances using voice and physical presence. It is intelligent, energetic, work-focused, loyal, and adaptable. This breed is categorized in the Herding group and its recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight ranges from 29 to 40 kg for both sexes, and estimated adult height ranges from 61 to 66 cm. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. Because these measurements are modelled estimates, actual individuals may vary.
Quick facts
Huntaway at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHerding
OriginNew Zealand
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight29–40 kilogram
Female weight29–40 kilogram
Male height61–66 centimetre
Female height61–66 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Huntaway was developed in New Zealand during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Farmers crossed various British sheepdogs, collies, and other herding breeds to create a dog capable of moving large flocks of sheep over vast distances using its powerful voice and stamina. The breed's history is closely tied to the needs of New Zealand's expansive sheep stations, where a dog that could work independently and communicate vocally was essential. The exact timeline and specific crosses are not precisely documented, but the breed emerged as a distinct type valued for its barking style and endurance. Today, the Huntaway remains a working dog, though its recognition status varies by registry, and it is not universally standardized.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
29–40 kilogramAdult weight61–66 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentenergeticwork-focusedloyaladaptable
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Huntaway-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
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Growth chart
Huntaway puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight29–40 kilogramAdult female weight29–40 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Huntaway?
The Huntaway is a large breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 29 to 40 kg, and estimated adult height is 61 to 66 cm. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may differ.
What is the temperament of a Huntaway?
Huntaways are described as intelligent, energetic, work-focused, loyal, and adaptable. However, temperament varies among individuals. They are bred for herding and may exhibit strong working instincts.
How much exercise does a Huntaway need?
Huntaways have a high energy level (energy score 5 out of 5). They require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation, especially activities that engage their herding instincts. Without adequate activity, they may become restless.
What are the grooming requirements for a Huntaway?
Grooming needs are moderate (grooming score 3 out of 5). Shedding is also moderate (score 3). Regular brushing helps manage loose hair. Coat types are not specified in the available facts.
Is a Huntaway suitable for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is low (score 2 out of 5). This breed is best suited to homes with ample space and a yard, given its large size and high energy. They are not ideal for small living spaces without sufficient exercise opportunities.
How does a Huntaway get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is moderate (score 3 out of 5) and dog compatibility is also moderate (score 3). Individual temperaments vary, so early socialization and supervision are recommended. Their herding instincts may influence interactions.
Where does the Huntaway originate from?
The Huntaway originates from New Zealand. It was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by crossing various British sheepdogs, collies, and herding breeds to create a dog that could move large flocks of sheep using its voice and stamina.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.