English Shepherd

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

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.

Color

The English Shepherds primarily comes in sable and white (clear and shaded), black and white, black and tan, and even in tricolors. Others appears to be in solid gray dogs of any variations of brindle, and red nosed tricolors and sables.

Coat

These breeds have a medium in length, thick, double coat which can be either straight, wavy or slightly curly. They appear to be quite feathery on the legs and tail. Their coat is very easy to take care having a weather and dirt-resistant coat. These breeds will only need minimal grooming.

Personality

The English Shepherd is a highly intelligent breed with a unique type of kindness for both animals and people. They can work independently and can easily adapt and are able to quickly learn with the routines being taught. However, they sometimes exhibits an independent, bossy or "enforcer of the rules" personality. They have the desire to enforce order and when they are not followed, they ended being a strong, confident leader which may then lead to exhibiting many undesirable behaviors. Nevertheless, they can develop as a companion dogs in environments that provide sufficient mental and physical stimulation. They best work in a partnership arrangement with their master. These breeds are energetic, lively, smart, very active and courageous. They are useful as watchdogs at home and are companionable to their master. They are wonderful with children and other animals, especially when raised with them from puppyhood. They can be friendly dogs, however they can be reserved with strangers.

Care

English Shepherds are medium-sized breeds that are normally healthy dogs, but can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Their coat affords all weather protection. These breeds will normally require minimal grooming. Bathing should be done when necessary to keep them clean.

Training

English Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs. Training these dogs can be easy since they can easily understand and follow routines and can even work independently. However, it is important for the owners to exhibit confidence on enforcing rules or else they will make up their own rules. Early socialization and training is advised for these type of breeds.

Activity

English Shepherds are normally made as working dogs, however they can compete these days with dog agility trials, obedience, showmanship, tracking, flyball and herding events. They can also be trained to compete in herding trials with their herding instincts. These breeds are active, athletic and will require a good amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. They will need to be taken out on regular daily walks. They can be trusted being a sensible watchdog.