Discover the captivating allure of the Blue Bay Shepherd! With its striking blue coat and wolf-like features, this rare breed combines elegance and loyalty like no other. Bred for companionship and utility, its intelligence and trainability make it an ideal working dog.
In this article, we will explore the history, temperament, care requirements, and more of this remarkable canine, offering a comprehensive understanding of the enchanting Blue Bay Shepherd.
A Brief Overview of Blue Bay Shepherds
| Feature | Description |
| Origin | United States |
| Breed recognition | Not recognized by AKC, CKC, FCI |
| Size | Large |
| Height | 27.5 – 33.5 inches (70 – 85 cm) |
| Weight | 88 – 121 pounds (40 – 55 kg) |
| Coat | Double, medium-length, Blue or gray with possible sable markings |
| Temperament | Loyal, energetic, intelligent, protective, can be shy with strangers |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
| Good with children | Can be with proper socialization and supervision |
| Good with other pets | May vary, early socialization recommended |
| Activity level | High, needs regular exercise and mental stimulation |
| Training | Intelligent and trainable, but can be independent |
| Health concerns | Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat |
What is a Blue Bay Shepherd?
Discover the Blue Bay Shepherd, a unique breed blending the wolf’s majestic appearance with the German Shepherd’s friendly temperament.
Created through selective breeding of wolf-dogs and old-style blue German Shepherds, these dogs boast a wolf-like aesthetic while maintaining the affectionate and trainable nature of a traditional dog.
Are Blue Bay Shepherds Wolf Dogs?
Well, the answer is yes! The name Blue Bay Wolf Dogs is not just for show; these dogs indeed have wolf DNA in their lineage. However, there’s no need to be alarmed.
The Blue Bay Shepherd Wolf Dog is five generations removed from pure wolves, and their wolf-like traits are limited to their appearance. Vicki Spencer strives to maintain the wolf DNA at around 6% to ensure that her dogs don’t display feral tendencies. Yet, it’s not an exact science, and some Blue Bay Shepherds may share up to 40% DNA with wolves.
History Of Blue Bay Shepherd
Visionary breeder Vicki Spencer, based in Palm Bay, Florida, carefully crafted this breed, blending wolf dogs with old-style blue German Shepherds.
With a focus on the lupine look, loyalty, trainability, and affectionate temperament, the first Blue Bay Shepherds were born in March 2011. Their name pays tribute to their blue German Shepherd lineage and their birthplace.
Are Blue Bay Shepherd Really Blue?
Yes, Blue Bay Shepherds are considered “blue,” but not in the sense of a bright sky blue. In canine terms, “blue” refers to a diluted black color, giving their coat a bluish tint.
Their skin, noses, paw pads, lips, and eye rims also exhibit this blue hue, and some may even have blue eyes. This coloration makes them distinctively “blue,” despite potentially having other shades in their coat.
What Does A Blue Bay Shepherd Look Like?
- The Blue Bay Shepherd is a majestic breed with a wolf-like appearance and a large, impressive stature.
- Their long hair, typically in shades of blue or slate gray, enhances their unique charm.
- These dogs may have blue or black noses, and their eyes are often light-colored, ranging from amber to yellow, sometimes with greenish tints.
- Some even have striking blue eyes.
- Their athletic build reflects their wolf heritage, while their head shape shows a clear resemblance to their German Shepherd lineage, making them a captivating blend of both.
Size, Height, and Weight
The Blue Bay Shepherd is a large and attention-grabbing breed, with males often exceeding 30 inches in height and weighing between 85-105 pounds, while females typically weigh around 70-85 pounds. Some exceptional individuals can even reach 130 pounds.
These dogs are not small lap dogs; they require ample space and an active lifestyle due to their substantial size and energetic nature. They are best suited for homes with plenty of room and families who can engage them in regular exercise and play.
Coat Colors and Types
The Blue Bay Shepherd primarily features a stunning blue coat, but due to its mixed breed heritage, other colors like beige, cream, white, black, and black and tan also appear. These varying shades contribute to the breed’s diversity and charm.
While the focus remains on the blue coat, these additional colors may gain official recognition as the breed evolves and its standards become more established.
Temperament and Personality
Blue Bay Shepherds are known for their affectionate and gentle temperament, contrasting with the aggression often associated with their wolf ancestors.
They are sociable, playful, and form strong bonds with their human families, behaving well around other animals and livestock.
mProper training and early socialization are key to nurturing their naturally sweet and loving nature, making them excellent companions for both families and individuals.
Training and Exercise Requirements
Training a Blue Bay Shepherd is relatively easy, as they share the German Shepherd’s renowned trainability, intelligence, and work ethic. However, they are sensitive dogs, so harsh training methods are not recommended. Positive reinforcement, consistency, and reward-based training are more effective for these gentle giants.
Regular exercise is crucial for Blue Bay Shepherds, especially during their active puppyhood and early adulthood. Providing them with daily physical activities helps manage their energy levels and prevents hyperactivity. As they mature, they become more relaxed, but regular walks or light jogs are still necessary to keep them healthy and happy.
Socialization is essential during their puppy years, and dog parks can be great places for them to interact with other dogs. However, as they grow older and become more assertive, individual walks or hikes might be preferable if they start showing bossy behaviors towards other dogs.
Grooming and Cleaning
- Blue Bay Shepherds, with their thick double coats, require significant grooming. They shed heavily twice a year, during spring and fall, necessitating daily brushing to manage shedding and maintain coat health. Outside of shedding seasons, brushing 1-3 times a week is sufficient. Regular grooming not only keeps their coat in good condition but also strengthens your bond with them.
- Their active lifestyle typically keeps their nails trimmed, but occasional clipping may be needed.
- Additionally, ear care is important to prevent infections, a common issue in breeds like German Shepherds.
Food and Diet
They are large dogs with substantial appetites to match their size. A typical adult Blue Bay Shepherd may require around 5 cups of dog food per day, but individual needs can vary based on age, health, size, and activity level. For a precise diet plan, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian.
Large dogs are susceptible to bloat, a serious condition that can occur when they eat too quickly. To reduce the risk, it’s recommended to divide their daily food intake into two meals, providing more manageable portions throughout the day.
Life Expectancy and Common Health Issues
Blue Bay Shepherds are generally considered healthier than standard German Shepherds due to their diverse genetic background, which includes wolf, husky, malamute, and other wolfdog DNA.
However, like any dog breed, they can still be susceptible to certain health issues. Here are some common health concerns to be aware of:
- Hip dysplasia: Although Blue Bay Shepherds are expected to have fewer hip joint issues than German Shepherds, it’s essential to be cautious and monitor for signs of hip dysplasia.
- Elbow dysplasia: This condition can affect the dog’s elbow joint and lead to pain, lameness, and reduced mobility.
- Bloat: Large dog breeds are at risk of bloat, which can be caused by rapid eating and vigorous activity after meals. Feeding your dog smaller portions multiple times a day and allowing a gap between meals and playtime can help reduce the risk.
- Epilepsy: While the genetic diversity in Blue Bay Shepherds may lower the chances of epilepsy, it’s essential to be aware that the condition has been reported in German Shepherds.
- Pituitary dwarfism: This condition is caused by a growth hormone deficiency and can lead to disproportionate physical features and growth issues.
- Degenerative myelopathy: Canine degenerative myelopathy affects the dog’s hind limbs due to nerve degeneration in the spine, resulting in loss of functionality. While this condition is more prevalent in German Shepherds, it’s worth keeping in mind.
They have not been around for long, so definitive data on their life expectancy is still limited. However, considering their healthier genetic background, their actual life expectancy is estimated to be around or above 12 years. As with any breed, proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to their overall well-being.
How Much is a Blue Bay Shepherd?
The American Blue Bay Shepherds come with a considerable price tag, ranging from $2,000 to $3,500 per puppy. Due to their rarity and being the sole breeder globally, there is a significant waiting list of one to two years for interested buyers.
Be cautious of breeders claiming to offer they for much less, as Vicki remains the only legitimate breeder. It’s essential to verify the authenticity of the source to ensure you are getting a genuine Blue Bay Shepherd.
Additionally, remember to research your state and local county laws regarding wolfdogs, as they may have specific regulations or restrictions in place. Being aware of the legalities will help you make an informed decision before bringing home one of these remarkable dogs.
How Can I Find a For Sale?
- To purchase a Blue Bay Shepherd, you should know that Vicki Spencer from Southern Breeze Ranch in Florida is the only recognized breeder in the USA. If you’re in Texas or elsewhere in the USA, visit Southern Breeze Ranch’s website for available dogs.
- For those in the UK or Ontario, finding this breed is more challenging, as there are no official breeders. You might consider similar breeds like wolfdogs or German Blue Shepherds, available on websites like dogsandpuppies, ukpets, pets4homes, or through local breeders.
- If you’re outside the USA but interested in a dog from Southern Breeze Ranch, contact them to discuss possible delivery arrangements. Always ensure you’re dealing with reputable breeders to avoid scams.
Is a Blue Bay Shepherd the Right Dog for You?
Blue Bay Shepherds are well-suited for homes that embrace an active and outdoor lifestyle, enjoying nature alongside their devoted canine companion.
Due to their strong bond with their human family, it’s best to avoid leaving them alone for extended periods to prevent separation anxiety.
Considering their size, households without small children might be more suitable. However, Vicki Spencer, the breeder behind these remarkable dogs, carefully matches them with homes that suit their needs. Contacting her could be beneficial in determining if a dog is the right fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Blue Bay Shepherds Rare?
Yes, Blue Bay Shepherds are rare. The breed is rare due to its exclusive origin and careful development at Vicki’s Southern Breeze Kennels. With only Vicki and a small team overseeing their breeding, the number of Blue Bays added each year remains limited. Also, proper development and preservation of their unique traits require meticulous and selective breeding, further contributing to their rarity.
To ensure the authenticity of a Blue Bay Shepherd, each one is granted a registration number, and Vicki personally signs a certificate. This documentation is proof of a genuine breed, making them a rare and sought-after breed among dog enthusiasts.
How Much Wolf Is In a Blue Bay Shepherd?
The first Blue Bay Shepherd puppies had approximately 30% wolf blood. Through careful breeding, the wolf blood has decreased, aiming for around 6% in the current generation
Are Blue Bay Shepherds Aggressive?
No, Blue Bay Shepherds are not inherently aggressive. While individual dogs may show aggression in certain situations, the breed’s overall temperament is not aggressive. Proper socialization and training from a young age are key to fostering non-aggressive behavior.
Responsible ownership and adequate exercise also play a significant role in shaping their behavior. Currently, there is no widespread evidence of aggression in the breed, but as with any dog, early training and socialization are crucial for a well-balanced temperament.
Do Blue Bay Shepherds Get Along With Kids?
Yes, Blue Bay Shepherds generally get along with kids. They are sweet, intelligent, and playful, and their temperament is typically safe around children.
However, their large size can be a concern, especially around toddlers, due to the risk of accidental harm. While many owners are comfortable with these dogs around children, caution is advised.
Given that the breed is relatively new and still being understood, families with kids may prefer more established breeds with well-known temperaments for assured safety.
Do Blue Bay Shepherds Get Along With Other Pets?
Yes, Blue Bay Shepherds generally get along with other pets, especially dogs they have been raised with, due to their strong pack mentality. They tend to be patient and even-tempered with small dogs and puppies.
However, caution is advised with smaller pets like cats, as their high prey drive might lead them to chase these animals, which could be intimidating or harmful, despite the playfulness of the dog. Male Blue Bay Shepherds may also show dominant behaviors towards other dogs as they mature.
Are Blue Bay Shepherds Hypoallergenic?
No, Blue Bay Shepherds are not hypoallergenic.
They are heavy shedders and have fur that can spread throughout the house. The fur may also carry dander, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Additionally, their habit of using their mouth to explore can leave behind saliva, another potential irritant for those with dog allergies.
If you have allergies, it’s important to consider these factors before bringing a Blue Bay Shepherd into your home.
Conclusion
In summary, the Blue Bay Shepherd’s striking appearance, unwavering loyalty, and exceptional intelligence make it a remarkable and versatile canine companion. Whether working in various capacities or as a loving family member, this unique breed leaves a lasting impression on all who encounter it. Embodying both grace and strength, the Blue Bay Shepherd stands as a testament to the wonders of canine breeding and the beauty of diversity in nature.