About the Breed: Truly one of the ultimate farm dogs, English Shepherds are well known and loved for their loyal, gentle nature and their versatility for both home and farm. Developed in the United States, from breeds brought over from England and Scotland, the English Shepherd was bred for an up-right, loose-eyed herding style, among their ability to guard livestock and hunt. While their cousins, Collies and Sheepdog breeds, took rise in the show ring in the 20th century, they were never primarily used but rather selected by the farmers who were interested in function rather than fashion. Many examples of Collie 'type' dogs,can be found in old photos of American settlers, leaving us to wonder just how many be used in the development of the breed we know and love today.
Production: English Shepherds are highly intelligent, personable, intuitive and sensitive dogs. They are fierce lovers and will protect their 'pack' with their lives. They are used for companionship, family pets, service dogs, search and rescue, hunting, house hold guardians and herding livestock. Unlike most herding breeds, English Shepherds have varying degrees of 'drive' and what some call an 'off-switch'. This allows for owners to select a dog compatible with their needs. From hunting, to being able to leave the dogs with livestock, unattended.
Description: Due to the gene pool being so large and varying from slightly different sizes, hair types - length - color - color patterns, eye color and personality it's hard to describe any one English Shepherd. Body types vary from tank to bean pole with generally medium length to long hair, which they shed twice a year. Most common colors are: Tri, Black and Tan, Black and white, Sable, Clear Sable and Saddle Back. Although there are many more.
Size: Average Weigh 40-60lbs Average Height 18-25"