Texas ranch work produced the Blue Lacy. The Lacy brothers, who moved from Kentucky to Burnet County in 1858, are credited with developing a quick, versatile dog that could drive livestock, trail wounded game and bay feral hogs, reportedly blending greyhound and scenthound ancestry. In 2005 the Texas Legislature named it the state dog breed. Lacys are lean, athletic and medium-sized, with a short, tight coat in blue gray, red or tricolor and striking amber or yellow eyes.
These dogs are intense, alert and quick to learn, and many bond closely with their people. They were bred to work all day, so a Lacy without a job can turn restless, noisy or destructive. Adopters who enjoy running, hiking, scent games or dog sports, and who can manage a strong chase instinct around small animals, tend to get the best from this driven working dog.