English Shepherds
The English Shepherd is a breed that was developed in the United States but is descended from the oldest breeds of dogs in the world - the Shepherd's Dog. The breed's ancestors were the multi-purpose shepherds of the British Isles, who came to North America beginning in the 1600s.
Colonists moving west brought their English Shepherds with them, developing the breed into the all-purpose dog of today. The English Shepherd helped hunt game so vital to the survival of the settlers, protected their livestock, gave warning of attack, and fought and died alongside those early pioneers. It is reasonable to say that no other breed contributed so much to the founding of America.
Those early homesteaders needed a multifaceted, all-around dog who could do almost anything that needed done. The English Shepherd developed into a versatile utility farm dog that is rarely equaled. From herding and tending livestock, dispatching vermin, and guarding the home, to watching over the children, the English Shepherd’s unique ability to work with all types of livestock and handle a variety of tasks have made this level-headed, easy going and practical dog a cherished member of the family and a dependable assistant on the farm.
Over more than a century, these dogs became so widely distributed and consistent in type that they were the classic farm dog celebrated by artist Norman Rockwell.
Colonists moving west brought their English Shepherds with them, developing the breed into the all-purpose dog of today. The English Shepherd helped hunt game so vital to the survival of the settlers, protected their livestock, gave warning of attack, and fought and died alongside those early pioneers. It is reasonable to say that no other breed contributed so much to the founding of America.
Those early homesteaders needed a multifaceted, all-around dog who could do almost anything that needed done. The English Shepherd developed into a versatile utility farm dog that is rarely equaled. From herding and tending livestock, dispatching vermin, and guarding the home, to watching over the children, the English Shepherd’s unique ability to work with all types of livestock and handle a variety of tasks have made this level-headed, easy going and practical dog a cherished member of the family and a dependable assistant on the farm.
Over more than a century, these dogs became so widely distributed and consistent in type that they were the classic farm dog celebrated by artist Norman Rockwell.
In modern times the English Shepherd is still utilized as a traditional farm and ranch dog, with an upright, loose-eyed herding style and instincts to heel and drive livestock. Not obsessive herders, the English Shepherd moves livestock with determined perseverance, adjusting the amount of pressure necessary to get the job done. Herding instinct may be stronger in some dogs than others. If raised and trained properly, they can be trusted to not bother or harm livestock.
English Shepherds thrive on responsibility and duty, with a seriousness of purpose and regard for order. They like everything to be in order and have a strong sense of how things are supposed to be. They work very hard to create and maintain that order wherever they go, becoming bossy control freaks insisting that everyone obey the rules. |
English Shepherds want to know what the rules are – and they enjoy enforcing those rules! If rules are not set by you, the English Shepherd will make up their own rules. They are fondly known by their owners as “Rule Nazis” and are quick to either tell you something is out of place or enforce the rules themselves.
This is an important quality of the English Shepherd. It is what drives them to put the cattle back in their pasture when the fence breaks, or inform you of rules violations like the house cat trying to escape out of an unlatched door.
Because of the English Shepherd’s intelligence, discrimination, and protectiveness, they make reliable watchdogs. Their instinct to protect their family starts at a young age and is one of the strongest of all breeds. While they should not be aggressive without provocation, early and continued socialization are critical for an English Shepherd to judge how to respond appropriately. Once they are mature, they do not bark indiscriminately – if they are barking, there is a reason. Steadfast and brave, an English Shepherd will defend their family with their life.
Many English Shepherds also excel in dog sports, such as agility, obedience, tracking, flyball, Barn Hunt and herding trials, as well as Search Rescue and Therapy Dog work.
This is an important quality of the English Shepherd. It is what drives them to put the cattle back in their pasture when the fence breaks, or inform you of rules violations like the house cat trying to escape out of an unlatched door.
Because of the English Shepherd’s intelligence, discrimination, and protectiveness, they make reliable watchdogs. Their instinct to protect their family starts at a young age and is one of the strongest of all breeds. While they should not be aggressive without provocation, early and continued socialization are critical for an English Shepherd to judge how to respond appropriately. Once they are mature, they do not bark indiscriminately – if they are barking, there is a reason. Steadfast and brave, an English Shepherd will defend their family with their life.
Many English Shepherds also excel in dog sports, such as agility, obedience, tracking, flyball, Barn Hunt and herding trials, as well as Search Rescue and Therapy Dog work.
The English Shepherd needs to be part of his family, striving to make sure everyone is safe and happy. Eager to please and easy to train, they are loyal and loving to their family and usually excellent with children. Not pushy nor demanding, English Shepherds exist to serve and are happiest when they are with their humans. Devotion is inherent to the breed, so much so that they are often called "English Shadows".
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They do not do well if caged or chained for any length of time and can become depressed and lose weight. English Shepherds are working dogs that are excel on the farm with chores to do, yet are very happy to lay at their family’s feet at the end of a busy day.
The English Shepherd is not a breed for everyone. Intelligent, energetic and athletic, they need daily physical and mental exercise. While most English Shepherds are eager to please, but they are typically bored by repetition, are resistant to dominant forms of training, and are often very stubborn. The English Shepherd’s desire to be with their owner is intrinsic to their character which can be unsettling for people who prefer a more aloof breed.
The English Shepherd is not a breed for everyone. Intelligent, energetic and athletic, they need daily physical and mental exercise. While most English Shepherds are eager to please, but they are typically bored by repetition, are resistant to dominant forms of training, and are often very stubborn. The English Shepherd’s desire to be with their owner is intrinsic to their character which can be unsettling for people who prefer a more aloof breed.
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