English Shepherds are extremely versatile working dog of the collie lineage. They are known to be descendants of the Shepherds' dogs of England and southern Scotland. These breeds differ from their cousins by being upright, loose-eyed harding style, and for having all-around ability. Aside from herding, their abilities include guarding and hunting.
These dogs were bred to do different tasks around the farm and not for show. Unlike some other herding dogs, these breeds are not specialized to work one species of livestock. They have been used on small diversified farms with various of livestock species like cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and fowl. English Shepherds both herd and protect livestock.