McNab Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height
15-25
Weight
35-70
Life Span
13-15
Health
health
Cataracts
What are Cataracts?
Cataracts are eye diseases caused by clouding or opacification of the natural lens of the eye. There will be a cloudy appearance to the dog's eye(s), and he may walk into things or seem unsteady on his feet, especially in unfamiliar territory.
Clinical Signs
Changes in eye colour or changes in pupil size or shape
Cloudy pupils in one or both eyes
Clumsiness
Difficulty seeing in dimly lit areas
Reluctance to climb or jump
Rubbing or scratching of the eyes
Treatment
A dog with cataracts can sometimes have them surgically removed to help improve their vision as they age.
Personality
Playful
McNab’s are most playful around specific members of the family only
Affectionate
McNab’s develop affection only towards specific people in the family
Lifetime Care
Coat
McNabs possess a short, protective undercoat and a short, smooth, weather-resistant topcoat of medium length, which lies close to or a little further away from the body, but is never plush or completely off-standing.
Colors
McNab's coat can be solid, bi-color, or tricolor, and its white markings may be clear or ticked. The texture is coarse, dense, and glossy.
Hypoallergenic
No
Grooming
McNabs should be brushed at least once a week to remove dead hair and prevent tangles, mats, and debris from accumulating. The undercoat rake should be used several times a week during spring and fall when these dogs blow their coats. Trim their nails and keep their ears clean.
Training
For McNabs, training is essential. Due to their intelligence and eagerness to learn, these dogs can quickly learn basic commands and tricks.
McNab Dogs are bred for their working abilities and are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). As a result, the McNab's appearance can vary greatly. Females stand 16-21 inches at the shoulder and weigh 30-50 pounds, while males stand 18-25 inches at the shoulder and weigh 35-65 pounds. Dogs have a variety of ear sets, ranging from pricked ears to floppy ears. Most McNabs are black or brown with white feet, white collars, white facial strips, and white tipped tails, but tricolor McNabs are also well known.
The bodies and faces of some McNabs are covered in random white patches. Brown, hazel, or copper-colored eyes with occasional marble flecks or powder blue eyes are set well apart and almond shaped. McNab coats are close, dense, and weather-resistant. They can have a short single coat, a short double coat, or a medium length single coat, but they never have long fur. In addition to their catlike feet, the McNab is known for their agility.
The McNabs' reputation as an indefatigable "all-weather" dog has also opened a new field of work for the dog: Search and Rescue. McNabs are currently working as evidence search dogs, cadaver dogs, archaeology dogs, and missing persons search dogs. The McNab is only limited by its handler's energy, unlike many other breeds that must be pulled off the search because of tiredness.
McNab Sheperd Dog: Introduction to the Breed
There is no doubt that pet ownership is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family. If you are considering purchasing another puppy, take the time and energy to research the available puppies and think about which puppy will best suit your family and lifestyle prior to purchasing another puppy. Consider carefully what characteristics you would like to see in a dog, and what characteristics you would prefer not to see in a dog. There are a few things you should know about McNabs.
McNab dogs are generally:
Good with specific members in families
Playful
Energetic
Stubborn
McNabs are eager, intelligent, and energetic, like other working dog breeds. As shepherds and flock guardians, these dogs can work long hours without a break. Without work, McNabs can develop behavioral issues. It is best for McNabs to live in active homes with owners who provide both mental and physical stimulation. Despite being affectionate and loyal, McNabs might not be a good family dog. As a result of their strong herding tendencies, they may chase cars, corral children, or herd other animals. Additionally, McNabs tend to bond tightly with one person rather than spreading their affection throughout the family. It is also known for being aloof around strangers but not aggressive.
What are the Origins of McNab Sheperd?
Despite moving to California, Alexander McNab missed Scotch Collies for their endless stamina and strong work ethic. It was in 1866 that McNab returned to his native land where he purchased two Scotch Collies and brought them back to America so they could work on his ranch in his native land.
He crossed the Scotch Collies with local dogs of Basque origin and English origin, resulting in a breed that had the same strength, stamina, and herding abilities as the Scotch Collies, but with smooth coats that were better suited to the California climate. This new breed of dog was called the McNab after him. The McNab Border Collie is also known as the McNab Herding Dog, the McNab Sheepdog, and the McNab Shepherd.
As a result of these affectionate beginnings, the McNab gained a following among ranchers. A well-known breed in the sheep-herding world, it excels in agility dog events.
What are the Risks for the McNab Sheperd Dog Breed?
The McNab Dog has received a 5-star rating from the experts on the scale of dog breeds that are the healthiest dog breeds, according to dog experts. Hence, they possess no health risks. The MDR1 gene mutation leads to a defect in a drug-pumping protein, which is critical for limiting drug absorption and distribution (particularly in the brain). Some commonly used medications can cause severe adverse reactions in dogs with the MDR1 mutation.
McNabs should be fed high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their life stage (puppy, adult, senior) as well as a diet that is formulated for active breeds. McNabs might not become overweight if they exercise enough, but portioning out their food with a measuring cup and limiting treats to no more than 10% of their daily calories can help them maintain a healthy weight.
A walk around the block won't be enough exercise for McNabs; they're high-energy dogs. Although McNabs prefer working, regular outdoor activities such as running, hiking, swimming, and trips to the dog park can help them burn off their energy. In addition to being highly intelligent, these puppies also excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience, rally, and herding. McNabs will become bored and could become destructive or neurotic without adequate exercise.
Despite your best efforts, McNab can meet with an accident even if you do everything in your power to protect them. Due to this, it's essential to be prepared for the things you cannot control. At Spot Pet Insurance, our priority is helping you give your dog the long, happy, and healthy life they deserve. Reach out today and request a free pet insurance quote to learn more about our range of well-rounded plan options for your McNab Sheperd.