Cattle Dogs

English Shepherd

The English Shepherd is not English but an American breed of dog . The most common dog on small farms in the US in 1900 was the English Shepherd. The English Shepherd is an all around farm dog, being used as a herding dog, watch dog, hunting dog, and child's companion. They are energetic and athletic, yet very gentle.

The coat is medium length and can be straight, wavy, or curly. There is frequently feathering on the legs and tail. As a working dog, the coat should be easy to keep, requiring no grooming. Dirt and burrs tend to just fall away. The coat comes in four colors: sable, tricolor, black and white, and black and tan. A medium sized dog, English Shepherds generally weigh between 40 and 80 pounds and stand 18-24 inches at the withers.

English Shepherds have an upright, loose-eyed herding style when working cattle. Their temperament is the defining characteristic of the breed, possessing great intelligence and displaying kindness for those in his home, both animals and people. The English Shepherd is often an independent worker. English Shepherds are adaptable but learn routines quickly. Some can be standoffish with strangers and more one-person dogs. However, once he accepts people or children or stock as his own, there are few better caretakers than an English Shepherd.