Blue bay shepherd

Overall description of the breed

The Blue Bay Shepherd is a very recent breed of herding dog. It is the result of a crossbreeding between a Blue German Shepherd and wolf-dogs. Vicki Spencer, an American breeder, is the originator of this new canine breed. Her goal was to create a herding dog that would have the appearance of a wolf, but with the traits of German Shepherds and a gentle and loving personality.

To achieve this, she used a mixture of eight genetic lineages, the exact breeds of which remain secret. However, some observers suggest that sled dog breeds of the Spitz type, such as the Siberian Husky and the Alaskan Malamute, may have been included in the combination. The development of the Blue Bay Shepherd took over 20 years, and the first litter was born in 2011. These dogs come from six generations of carefully selected crossbreeding with wolf-dogs.

Although the aim is to maintain a final genetic profile with only 6% wolf DNA, some puppies may inherit over 15% lupine DNA, which does not pose a major problem. The name Blue Bay Shepherd is derived from their breeding location, Palm Bay in Florida, as well as their striking dark blue coat.

The Blue Bay Shepherd has a strikingly similar silhouette to that of a wolf. Its head is proportionate to its molosser-like morphology, neither too large nor too small. The animal has a broad nose and an elongated muzzle, with a relatively long tongue. The ears are large, with an extended base and pointed tips. The eyes of the Blue Bay Shepherd are clear, piercing, and almost hypnotic, with shades of blue, light brown, or green.

Its coat is captivatingly dark blue, although it can also have a grayish hue. In reality, most Bergers bleus de la Baie are more gray than blue. Given the novelty of the breed, the official standard for the American Shepherd has not yet been established, at least regarding coloration. Thus, a variety of shades are possible, ranging from beige to cream, or a combination of blue, fire, and black. Blue Bay Shepherds can weigh up to 60 kg (132 lbs) and measure approximately 80 cm (31.5 inches) at the shoulder, with an athletic and rather broad body.

The Blue Bay Shepherd is a gentle, affectionate, and energetic dog. It is extremely close to its family and loves playing with children. Unlike the German Shepherd, one of its ancestors, the Blue Bay Shepherd does not have a pronounced guarding instinct and does not show territorial behavior. Despite its imposing wolf-like appearance, it is not aggressive when properly socialized from a young age. Bergers bleus de la Baie are more inclined to relax on the couch rather than chase after strangers.

They have a calm temperament, although this may vary depending on their percentage of wolf DNA (6% or 16%). Individuals with a higher proportion of wolf blood may be more reserved or shy, likely due to the inherent wariness that wolves have toward humans.

However, early socialization and proper training will help a timid puppy relax and thrive within its family. Bergers bleus de la Baie get along well with other animals and have a tendency to live in a pack-like manner.