The English shepherd’s obedient nature, its drive to work and protect, its companionable disposition and its exuberant demeanor make this breed an ideal family member. The English shepherd originated in England and Scotland. English shepherds accompanied the first settlers of the American colonies, and American farmers subsequently welcomed the working dogs to herd and protect their livestock and to guard their homes. In 1934, the United Kennel Club recognized the English shepherd. As the numbers of small, family farms have diminished, the need for the English shepherd’s services also decreased. Today, the English shepherd is considered a rare breed.
The English Shepherd is a medium-sized, sturdy dog breed. They have long bodies and strong, muscular legs. English Shepherds have long muzzles and medium-sized, pendant ears. They have medium-length double coats, which can be straight, wavy or curly. They need to be brushed regularly to prevent the hair from tangling. Their ears should be checked regularly to prevent infections. The medium-sized English shepherd stands 18 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 40 to 60 pounds. The medium-length coat may be wavy, curly or straight, and coloring includes tri-colored, black and white, sable and white or black and tan. Their small ears flip downward when relaxed, and their tails are carried low.
Personality
English Shepherds are kind, friendly and intelligent dogs. They are very energetic and are happiest when they have a task. Sometimes they are more one-person-type dogs and don’t accept children as part of their pack. When they do, they are very affectionate and friendly towards children. They need plenty of vigorous exercise and need to sprint, run or jog on a daily basis. They are often independent-minded and bossy and need consistent training. They are usually friendly or shy towards other dogs and reserved with strangers. The English shepherd makes a devoted and companionable family member, getting along with children and other pets. They are alert and fearless watchdogs. English shepherds are energetic and agile, and they will appreciate long walks, interactive play, agility and other canine sports. English shepherds are obedient and intelligent. They are playful, and they delight in games of chase and fetch for hours. Once their energy is expended, they are content to relax with their owners.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12-16 years |
| Nicknames: | Farm Collie |
English Shepherd Build Information
The English Shepherd is a medium-sized, sturdy dog breed. They have long bodies and strong, muscular legs. English Shepherds have long muzzles and medium-sized, pendant ears. They have medium-length double coats, which can be straight, wavy or curly. They need to be brushed regularly to prevent the hair from tangling. Their ears should be checked regularly to prevent infections. The medium-sized English shepherd stands 18 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 40 to 60 pounds. The medium-length coat may be wavy, curly or straight, and coloring includes tri-colored, black and white, sable and white or black and tan. Their small ears flip downward when relaxed, and their tails are carried low.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
English Shepherds are kind, friendly and intelligent dogs. They are very energetic and are happiest when they have a task. Sometimes they are more one-person-type dogs and don’t accept children as part of their pack. When they do, they are very affectionate and friendly towards children. They need plenty of vigorous exercise and need to sprint, run or jog on a daily basis. They are often independent-minded and bossy and need consistent training. They are usually friendly or shy towards other dogs and reserved with strangers. The English shepherd makes a devoted and companionable family member, getting along with children and other pets. They are alert and fearless watchdogs. English shepherds are energetic and agile, and they will appreciate long walks, interactive play, agility and other canine sports. English shepherds are obedient and intelligent. They are playful, and they delight in games of chase and fetch for hours. Once their energy is expended, they are content to relax with their owners.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
An English shepherd’s coat requires minimal grooming. They do shed, so brushing them through once or twice each week will collect the dead hairs and minimize the accumulation of shed hair on household carpets and furnishings. Check the ears each week, and keep them clean and dry to reduce the incidence of infection. Brushing the teeth daily or every other day will be helpful in preventing periodontal disease and maintaining overall internal health.
| Shedding: | Heavy |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
English Shepherd Common Health Conditions
English shepherds live an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. They are hardy and have few known inherited health conditions. Prospective owners should be mindful of the potential for hip dysplasia and for an inherited sensitivity to some commonly used canine medications and anesthetic drugs. As with all deep-chested breeds, owners should also be aware of the increased risk for gastric torsion, or bloat, which is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention.
English Shepherd Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The English shepherd originated in the United Kingdom. The English shepherd is an attentive and protective watchdog and a devoted household companion. The English shepherd stands 18 to 23 inches tall and weighs 40 to 60 pounds. English shepherds have a high energy level. English shepherds require minimal grooming. The average lifespan for an English shepherd is 12 to 16 years.
| Training: | Easy to Train |
