English Shepherd

The English Shepherd is an American breed, despite what their name suggests about British origins. They probably come from English and Scottish dogs that were brought to America during the colonial era. This breed is known for its versatility and is a medium-sized dog full of energy and quickness. As herders, they are focused and tenacious. With a reliable, steady, and honest nature, the English Shepherd also serves well as a watchdog and is simple to train.

Quick Info

Size
Medium
Colours
Black and White; Black and Tan; Black, White and Tan; Sable and White, and Tan & White
Lifespan
Height
18 to 23 inches
Type
Shepherd
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
40 to 60 pounds
Family
Herding

Personality

The English Shepherd is both courageous and calm, always prepared to start working right away. They are watchful and focused, but can also be quite sensitive. With their sharp minds, they pick up new skills quickly, making training easy. Like many herding breeds, they can think for themselves, which sometimes leads to a bit of stubbornness. They thrive with owners who provide steady, strong, and kind guidance.

History

The ancestors of the English Shepherd probably date back to Roman times when dogs were introduced to the British Isles for herding animals. When the British moved to America, they brought these dogs along, and they have been in the U.S. ever since, although they are less common than other types of shepherd dogs.

Ideal Owner

People who know how to motivate a herding dog will have the best experience with English Shepherds. These dogs require energetic owners who can keep up with their lively nature and are willing to spend time on training. They thrive on plenty of outdoor activities. Those who have English Shepherds should buy quality jackets, as these dogs enjoy being outside in all kinds of weather, regardless of what the weather report predicts.

Exercise Needs

Active and full of energy, the English Shepherd loves to walk, run, hike, and play. They also thrive on mental challenges like games, puzzles, and training sessions. When given the right amount of activity and mental engagement, they can be friendly and well-behaved companions for families.

Space Requirements

An enclosed yard or plenty of open space is perfect for an English Shepherd. They enjoy being close to their families when indoors.

Training

The English Shepherd is fast at picking up new skills and is very willing to learn. They tend to follow commands but may also look for their own solutions to problems. These dogs have strong views that can sometimes clash with what their owners want. Using steady, kind, and firm training approaches will encourage the dog to respect their owners. Additionally, socializing them can boost their confidence.

Grooming

English Shepherds lose a fair amount of fur, so it's a good idea to brush them often. This helps keep them healthy and prevents your floors from getting covered in dog hair.

Suitability for Family Life

English Shepherds make excellent pets for families who have some experience with dogs, particularly those who have had herding breeds before. They thrive in homes without young kids or with older children who can help with training and keeping the dog active.

Did You know?

Despite their name, English Shepherds are actually dogs from America. They probably originated from Scottish and English herding dogs that were brought to the U.S. during the Colonial period.

Similar Breeds

Australian Shepherd
Border Collie

Need to Know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Extra training required
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys vigorous walks
Medium dog
Minimal drool
Requires frequent grooming
Chatty and vocal dog