English Shepherds are an intelligent, energetic, and devoted breed. They make excellent farm dogs and family pets.
The English Shepherd dog breed originated in Scotland and North England. English Shepherds are a working breed and are most content when they have a job to do, whether it be herding sheep or cattle or watching over children at a day in the park. They make excellent farm dogs, but may also adjust to an active life in the city. They are energetic, independent, devoted, and extremely gentle, making them wonderful companions for any age.
Early settlers from the UK brought these dogs to the United States to serve as farm dogs. They are sometimes called farm coolies or farm shepherds. English Shepherds have natural instincts to herd livestock and work well with sheep, cattle, hogs, and chickens. These dogs are known for being calm and having good judgement, as well as instinctively obeying their owner's commands.
My own father took these same things into account when he purchased an English Shepherd puppy from an established breeder in 1977 to help him on his farm. That same year he and my mother became parents to a baby girl. Poor Violet, our English Shepherd, must have thought her job was to be my companion, because she was never much interested in herding cattle. But that dog became my best friend and protector for the next 16 years.
English Shepherds are known for their devotion to their owners and when Pansy was 12 years old, as was I, we attempted to leave her behind when we moved to the city. The idea was that she would be happier running on the large farm and in her familiar surroundings. The neighbors we left her with called a week later to say Pansy had refused to eat since the day we left. Several hundred miles later she was back where she belonged - with her family.
English Shepherds are a medium sized dog and grow to approximately 18 to 24 inches in height and have moderately (about two inches) long hair. They are predominantly black in color with accents of tan or white, although chocolate and red coloring may also be found in the breed. English Shepherds can weigh between 35 and 90 pounds, although dogs over 60 pounds are uncommon. An English Shepherd's coat should be glossy and may be either wavy or straight. A healthy dog's eyes will be very expressive and alert. These dogs are known for their intelligent looks. They have bushy tails that are raised when alert. The average life span of the English Shepherd is 12-16 years.
English Shepherd's also make excellent watch and guard dogs and may be trained for hunting. They are very capable when carrying items with their teeth. The English Shepherd is a very people-oriented dog and makes an excellent companion, watchdog, working farm dog, or family pet.
English Shepherds require plenty of exercise and activity. An owner in the city should be willing to take frequent and lengthy walks and romps with a dog of this breed. English Shepherds are very healthy dogs, although hip dysplasia is common in older dogs.
