Hard-working huntaway the top dog
Breed proves popular in rural Hawke’s Bay
Central Hawke’s Bay has ranked in the top five districts for most dogs per capita in New Zealand. The rural district came in fourth, with 360 dogs for every 1000 residents. Alongside its human population of 14,650, there are 5271 registered dogs.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs figures show the most popular breed in CHB is the much-loved New Zealand huntaway.
CHB Vets veterinarian Karen Phillips, the owner of a huntaway, said the hard-working breed make great companions.
“Most huntaways are gentle dogs with a big bark.
“Huntaways and crosses are popular as pets in rural areas because as working dogs age and need to retire, these dogs are available as pets.”
While huntaways take the lead in CHB, labrador retriever are the most popular dog nationally. Huntaways and border collies ranked second and third, which can likely be attributed to rural communities.
Phillips said there were a number huntaways around.
“There are often surplus puppies or unplanned litters available.”
The Waipukurau-based vet has owned her huntaway, Jack, for five years.
She got him when he was two, after an injury ended his working life.
“He isn’t that keen on stock work but will provide some form of help by barking when we are moving calves and sheep. He’s more of a pet and a gentle giant who everyone loves.”
Phillips did warn huntaways need a lot of exercise and attention as they were bred to work.
Last year’s most popular names for our canine companions were Bella and Charlie, according to the survey.
Griffiths Footwear in Hastings has a friendly pooch named Bella, and the shop dog is often stationed at the store providing tail wags and affection to customers.
Nine-year-old Bella is a rescued heading huntaway-cross that loves sleeping and being patted.
Wairoa followed CHB in fifth place in the rankings, with 358 dogs for every 1000 humans. The huntaway is the most popular breed there, too.
The northern Hawke’s Bay district has 3123 dogs for its population of 8720.
The South Island district of Hurunui tops the rankings with 421 dogs for every 1000 people, having 5451 registered canines to its human population of 12,950. Its most sought-after breed is the smooth collie.
Hastings district in 52nd spot has 11,081 dogs with a human population of 84,700 – the most common breed in the area is the golden retriever.
Napier was 60th on the list with only 94 dogs for every 1000 people. Its favourite breed is the labrador retriever.
The more densely populated areas were shown to have many fewer dogs per capita.
Wellington City came in last, recording the lowest number of a mere 58 dogs for every 1000 people.