English Shepherd Dogs & Puppies

• Energy Level

• Exercise Requirements

• Playfulness

• Affection Level

• Friendliness to Dogs

• Friendliness to Other Pets

• Friendliness to Strangers

• Watchfulness

• Ease of Training

• Grooming Requirements

• Heat Sensitivity

• Vocality

The English Shepherd is courageous and gritty, always ready to perform the work for which he was bred at the drop of a hat. Alert and eager to please, the English Shepherd is a devoted family companion and loyal watchdog.

Because the English Shepherd is a working breed, he requires plenty of exercise. He’s not ideally suited for apartment dwelling and does better in a home with a fenced backyard or acreage with plenty of room to roam. Due to his high intelligence, the English Shepherd also requires as much mental stimulation as he does physical. Without proper training and socialization, he can become stubborn and bossy. The English Shepherd has a thick, soft and glossy coat that requires regular grooming, including weekly brushing and the occasional bath.

• Major Concerns: N/A
• Minor Concerns: N/A
• Occasionally Seen: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, luxating patella, cataracts
• Suggested Tests: Hip dysplasia, brucellosis, MDR1
• Lifespan: 10 to 13 years

The English Shepherd is believed to have resulted from a combination of dogs native to the British Isles with sheep and cattle dogs that Caesar brought to the British Isles when he invaded in 55 BC. These dogs assisted the Romans in herding livestock that were brought to help feed the troops. As the livestock dwindled, the extra dogs no longer needed were left to be used by natives to the area to breed with similar herding dogs to strengthen their natural instinct and other positive qualities. The first settlers brought the English Shepherd to the American colonies, and from there, followed the western development the United States. Esteemed for his herding ability and guarding instinct, this versatile, all-purpose breed has been recognized by the United Kennel Club since 1927.