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Facts about English Shepherd Puppies
Are you unsure how to care for English Shepherd puppies or just want to learn more about the breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a dog and want to know if this is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
The breed, also known as Farm Collie and Farm Shepherd, actually originated in the United States. It's a descendant of the same group of Shepherds' dogs of Scotland and England as the Collie and Border Collie.
These dogs were brought to the colonies by the early British settlers, and that's how the breed got its name.
Some experts believe that ancestors of all English and Scottish sheep dogs were brought to Britain by Romans sometime in the first century A.D.
The English Shepherd has been recognized as a distinct breed since 1930s.
Physical Characteristics of English Shepherd Puppies
This is a medium-size dog with a body that's slightly longer than it is tall. It has a deep chest, a broad and long muzzle, drop-down ears, brown eyes, a black nose and a long or natural bob tail.
It has a double coat that consists of a straight or curly outer coat and shorter and very dense undercoat. The coat comes in black and tan, black and white, and tricolor.
Overall, it's similar in appearance to the Border Collie and Australian Shepherd.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 19 to 23 inches | 45 to 60 pounds | |
| Female | 18 to 21 inches | 40 to 50 pounds |
Temperament
This is a highly intelligent and energetic dog. It's devoted to its owner, loves children and, in general, good with other dogs and pets, especially if raised with them from puppyhood.
It's hard-working, highly trainable and can work independently. When working, it can even be bossy!
Unlike some other herding breeds, the English Shepherd is a multi-talented dog. It's not only an excellent herder but it's also valued for its hunting and tracking abilities. It's also a very good watchdog.
Best Owner
English Shepherd puppies will do best with an active owner in a suburban environment. They will excel on farms where they can be given jobs to do.
Some English Shepherd breeders may interview prospective owners to make sure they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
This is a very active breed and needs to be kept busy. The best kind of exercise it can get is if it's given a job to do. At a minimum, take him for one or two daily walks.
Grooming
This is an easy breed to care for. Somehow, it doesn't accumulate a lot of dirt and doesn't need to be washed that often.
Brush once or twice a week, more often during heavier shedding seasons in the spring and fall.
Health Concerns
This is a pretty healthy breed. One of the health concerns is hip dysplasia.
To avoid the above and many other problems, buy only from reputable English Shepherd breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy is between 12 and 15 years.
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