McNab

Coat and looks how to spot one

smooth, short or medium, dense and weather-resistant

A lithe, athletic herding dog with a close, dense, weather-proof coat. Ear carriage ranges from upright to folded, tails may be naturally short or long, and its compact, cat-like feet help make it very nimble.1

Personality what they are like

Intelligent, confident and eager to work, forming a close bond with its family and keeping a watchful eye on its home. It responds best to consistent, reward-based training.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High: needs substantial daily exercise and mental challenges; excels in herding and dog sports such as agility, flyball, disc and nose work.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short to medium coat is easy care; regular brushing is enough.1

Home where they are happiest

Happiest with space and a job, such as a farm, ranch or a very active home.1

Company who they like around

Bonds tightly with its people and wants to be part of daily activity.1

The story where it all began

Scottish immigrant Alexander McNab founded a large sheep ranch near what is now Hopland, California, in the late 19th century and bred his own herding dogs there. His son John McNab continued the line in the early 1900s, bringing in more dogs from Scotland. A DNA-based founding registry for the breed was set up in 2014.1

Recognised by the official bits

McNab Shepherd Registry

Founding registry established in 2014, using DNA verification for registration.1

AKC

Not recognised by major kennel clubs such as the AKC.1