4 Facts About English Shepherds
This dog breed is known for their versatility, energy, and friendly personality. Here are a few more facts about English Shepherds:
Read more →English Shepherd Puppies for Sale
Breed Characteristics
Average Size: Medium
Average Lifespan: 12-15 years
Kid/Pet Friendly: Sometimes
Registry: other
Activity Level: high
Shedding Level: moderate
Grooming Level: moderate
Trainability: high
Good For Novice Owners: moderate
Adaptability: moderate
Prey Drive: high
Watchdog: very alert
Breed Information
Overview
Shoulder height: 18-23 inches. Weight: 40-60 pounds.
Although the English Shepherd has origins stretching back into Scotland and northern England, the breed was developed in the United States. English and Scottish settlers in the American colonies brought farm dogs with them. It’s from these farm dogs with collie lineage that stretched back to Roman sheep and cattle dogs that the English Shepherd was developed.
This working dog breed was prized for their versatility on the farm. Their high intelligence served them well as an all-around farm dog. The English Shepherd could often be found working in several different capacities as a herding dog, watchdog for the farm, guard dog for livestock, hunting dog, and more. They often also juggled their working dog duties with being a loyal family dog and a beloved companion to children.
Because of their ability to excel on the farm, the English Shepherd may have been the most popular and common dog breed in the United States during the 19th century and the early 20th century. These days, you can still find the English Shepherd working on the farm or serving in other capacities like search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and, of course, a loving family companion.
They aren’t currently recognized by the AKC, but they are recognized by other notable dog organizations like the United Kennel Club, National Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, and more.
Temperament
The English Shepherd is a highly intelligent and energetic dog with a sweet disposition and a playful personality. They are serious, determined, and independent workers when on a job. But, at home with the family, they are playful, affectionate, and loving.
They tend to get along fantastically with children and tend to be good with other dogs. With their hunting dog background, they tend to have a high prey drive, so they will need some extra socialization with other small pets in the household. They may also be initially wary of strangers due to their watchdog instincts, but they tend to warm up after introductions.
Did You Know?
The English Shepherd is also sometimes called a Farm Collie. They often share this nickname with several other farm shepherds as well.
Available English Shepherd Puppies
No English Shepherd puppies are available right now — check back soon!
Featured English Shepherd Articles
