McNab Breed description: Character & Co

The McNab is not a recognized US-American dog breed.

The origin of the McNab

Scotsman Alexander McNab came to Hopland, California in the late 19th century to raise sheep. His herding dogs, brought from Scotland, initially struggled with the rough terrain, heat, and local barbed plants. So he crossed his animals with breeds from indigenous nomadic peoples.

The result is still called the "McNab Collie", "McNab Sheepdog", "McNab Herding Dog" or simply "McNab". After Alexander McNab's death, his sons continued the ambitious breeding. Until the end of the last century, the McNab Dog was only known to regional farmers.

In the meantime he spreads along the west coast of the USA.

The breed characteristics of the McNab

The McNab is considered to be tougher and more aggressive than the European herding dog. It drives the herds not crouched, but in an upright posture.

A special anatomical feature are the cat-like paws. These let it act especially sure-footed and can perfectly resist the aggressive plant seeds on the spot.

Traditionally, the tail of the McNab Sheep Dog was docked more often. Today, this practice is frowned upon even in the U.S., yet some ranchers still adhere to it.

The McNab Dog has been denied recognition by official associations such as the Kennel Club or the FCI. Fanciers are currently trying to change this. In order to preserve the breed, they have founded the "McNab Shepherd Registry" (MSR) on their own. This non-profit organization keeps, among other things, collected genetic material of the animals.

• highly specialized herding dog from Northern California
• goes back to the Scot Alexander McNab
• not recognized breed