English Shepherd
Is a English Shepherd Right For You?
Answer these quick questions to find out:
Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?
Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?
Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?
Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?
Do you live in a hot climate?
Breed Characteristics
How much exercise does English Shepherd need?
How much grooming does English Shepherd need?
Is English Shepherd easy to train?
How intelligent is English Shepherd?
Does English Shepherd bark a lot?
Is English Shepherd stubborn or independent?
How much playtime does a English Shepherd need daily?
Can English Shepherd stay indoors with limited walks?
Is English Shepherd protective or territorial?
Is English Shepherd affectionate with family?
Health Wellness
Is English Shepherd prone to allergies?
English Shepherds are prone to allergies, particularly to some canine prescription drugs, and are not hypoallergenic due to producing dander. Allergies can be triggered by food or airborne allergens like pollen. Approximately 15% of English Shepherds have been found to be allergic to certain prescription medications. In addition to drug allergies, they are also slightly prone to common health issues such as hip dysplasia and eye conditions. Regular grooming and avoiding harsh products can help manage potential allergy triggers in English Shepherds.
What are common health issues in English Shepherd?
English Shepherds are prone to several health issues, including joint problems such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and luxating patella. They are also at risk for various eye diseases like collie eye anomaly and progressive retinal atrophy. Cancer and neurologic problems are leading causes of early mortality in this breed. Other health concerns include hypothyroidism, degenerative myelopathy, allergies, obesity, and seizures. Canine hip dysplasia is a prevalent and serious issue in English Shepherds, while allergies and obesity are common but manageable conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are recommended to maintain their health and well-being.
Is English Shepherd a hypoallergenic breed?
The English Shepherd breed is not hypoallergenic, as they have a thick double coat that sheds and produces dander, which can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. This breed requires high maintenance grooming, including frequent brushing, to manage their coat. It is emphasized across multiple sources that there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, but some breeds are less allergenic for people with dog allergies. English Shepherds are not recommended for allergy sufferers due to their shedding and dander production.
How often should a English Shepherd visit the vet?
English Shepherds, known for their sturdy nature and limited health issues, should visit the vet annually to check for common conditions and diseases. Regular vet visits are essential for early diagnosis and treatment planning to maintain the dog's health. While the frequency of vet visits can vary based on factors like age, breed, lifestyle, and health status, a general guideline for most healthy adult dogs is an annual checkup. However, for senior dogs aged 10 and above, bi-annual visits for blood work and X-rays are recommended to monitor their health closely. Despite their overall good health, English Shepherds benefit from regular vet care, proper nutrition, and moderate exercise to ensure a long and healthy life.
What is the average vet bill for a English Shepherd?
The average annual vet bill for an English Shepherd typically ranges from $750 to $2,000, with costs varying based on factors such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, dental care, and potential emergencies. Initial expenses for a puppy's first year may amount to around $600, covering vaccinations and checkups. Routine check-ups for dogs can cost between $50 and $250, with additional expenses accumulating for illnesses and injuries. While the average price of an English Shepherd from a breeder is approximately $800 to $1,000, veterinary costs can quickly escalate in case of emergencies, with some instances resulting in bills totaling up to $3,000 for a 2.5-day period. Overall, pet owners should anticipate spending an average of $500 to $1,500 per year on vet bills for their English Shepherd, depending on various factors such as health, location, and specific medical needs.
Temperament
Is English Shepherd affectionate with family?
English Shepherds are affectionate and form strong bonds with their family members, often favoring one or two individuals who train and spend the most time with them. They are loyal, loving, and eager to please, making them wonderful companions and working partners in homes. While they may be one-person dogs, they are also capable of sharing their affection with every member of the family. Early socialization, positive reinforcement training, and a loving environment are key to raising a well-balanced and friendly English Shepherd. They benefit from playing with other dogs and can adapt well in homes with young children and other animals. Overall, English Shepherds are known for their versatility, loyalty, intelligence, and unique kindness towards their family members and other animals in the household.
Is English Shepherd good with other dogs?
English Shepherds are generally good with other dogs, benefiting from playing with canine buddies and being fairly good with most other dogs. They may have a select group of dog friends, but are not overly extroverted. With proper training and early socialization, English Shepherds make great family pets, adapting well to homes with young children and other animals. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability. While they may have a natural herding tendency to corral family members, they generally get along well with other animals. It is important to note that early socialization and positive training are key in shaping their behavior.
Is English Shepherd prone to separation anxiety?
Key points extracted from the sources include: - English Shepherds are highly active and energetic, requiring ample exercise, playtime, and socialization. - They may be prone to separation anxiety and require more socialization and training than other breeds. - German Shepherds, a related breed, are known to be prone to separation anxiety due to their strong bonds with owners. - Separation anxiety is a common issue in various breeds, including Labrador Retrievers, Chihuahuas, and German Shepherds. Based on the information provided, it can be summarized that English Shepherds are a highly active and energetic breed that may be prone to separation anxiety. They require ample exercise, playtime, and socialization to stay mentally and physically stimulated. Similar to their related breed, German Shepherds, English Shepherds can form deep bonds with their owners, leading to potential separation anxiety issues. It is important for English Shepherds to receive proper socialization and training to help mitigate separation anxiety tendencies.
Is English Shepherd aggressive?
The general consensus among sources is that English Shepherds are not inherently aggressive, but may display protective behaviors if they feel threatened or if their families are in danger. It is emphasized that any unprovoked aggressive or fearful behavior towards people is incorrect for this breed. Proper socialization is key for English Shepherds to get along well with other dogs, as they can be bossy if their canine friends are not behaving appropriately. The breed is described as sensitive, intelligent, and eager to please, but can be easily affected by rough handling or negative experiences. Overall, English Shepherds are not known to be aggressive, but may exhibit protective instincts in certain situations.
Is English Shepherd good with children?
English Shepherds are generally good with children, known for their gentle and patient nature. They make great family pets for active households and can form strong bonds with kids. While they may prefer their space at times, they are energetic enough to play with older children and benefit from socializing with other dogs. With proper training and early socialization, English Shepherds adapt well in homes with young children and other animals. They are happy on farms but also excel as family companions due to their working background and devotion to their families. Overall, English Shepherds are considered fantastic playmates and guardians for children when well-socialized.
Is English Shepherd stubborn or independent?
The English Shepherd breed is known for its intelligence, independent nature, and history as herding animals, which can sometimes lead to a stubborn streak. They respond best to strong personalities and firm leadership, but with proper training and early socialization, they make great, obedient family pets that adapt well to homes with children and other animals. English Shepherds are independent thinkers and can exhibit stubbornness, especially for newer dog owners. They are loyal, strong-willed, and can be a challenge to train at times. Despite their stubborn tendencies, they have a seamless combination of independent working ability and a desire to work in partnership with their owners, making them affectionate and funny companions.
Is English Shepherd protective or territorial?
The English Shepherd breed is known to be protective and territorial, exhibiting loyalty and a strong sense of guarding their families and homes. They may be wary of strangers and show territorial behaviors, but they are not typically aggressive. Training and socialization are crucial to ensure they interact well with other animals and people. Both male and female English Shepherds can display protective tendencies, and without proper leadership, they may become overly protective. Overall, English Shepherds are loyal, strong-willed dogs that require consistent training and clear boundaries to manage their protective instincts effectively.
Care Maintenance
Does English Shepherd drool a lot?
The English Shepherd breed does not drool excessively, but may salivate occasionally, especially when given treats or human food. Drooling is described as moderate, with minimal amounts compared to other breeds that are known to drool more profusely due to their large and jowly cheeks and lips. It is suggested that if you dislike being covered in slobber spots, you may want to consider another breed. The breed is known for being intelligent, loyal, and great working dogs, with moderate barking tendencies that serve as alerts rather than constant noise. Overall, drooling is not a major concern with English Shepherds, but occasional salivation can be expected, particularly during moments of excitement or when offered food.
How much grooming does English Shepherd need?
The English Shepherd has a medium-length thick coat that requires weekly brushing to prevent tangles and remove shed fur. Bathing should be done every few months to avoid stripping the coat of natural oils, especially during heavy-shedding seasons like spring and fall. Trimming is minimal for this breed, and whiskers should not be cut. Professional grooming may be needed occasionally for a full spruce-up. The English Shepherd is generally clean and does not require frequent bathing. They have a high energy level but are not obsessive about herding, and they can rest quietly when not working. Overall, regular grooming a few times a week is recommended to maintain the coat and prevent mats and tangles, with baths only necessary when the dog gets dirty.
How much does it cost to raise a English Shepherd annually?
The cost of raising an English Shepherd can vary, with initial expenses averaging around $3,600 for the first year and subsequent years costing between $1,500 to $2,000 annually. Additional costs may include veterinary expenses, food, supplies, training, and preventive medications such as heartworm and flea/tick treatments. Vet bills for an English Shepherd can range from $750 to $2,000 per year. It is important to consider the specific needs of your dog in terms of size, metabolism, and health conditions when budgeting for their care. Overall, owning an English Shepherd may require an investment of several thousand dollars per year to ensure their well-being and happiness.
Does English Shepherd shed a lot?
The English Shepherd breed is known to shed regularly, with some sources mentioning shedding occurring year-round and others noting heavier shedding during certain seasons. Regular grooming and brushing are recommended to manage shedding and prevent matting. It is advised to brush the English Shepherd's coat at least once every other week, with some sources suggesting brushing as frequently as daily during shedding seasons. Overall, English Shepherds are considered heavy shedding dogs, requiring consistent grooming to control the amount of fur around the home.
How often should you bathe a English Shepherd?
English Shepherds should be bathed every 4-6 weeks with a mild shampoo to maintain their coat and skin health. It is important to use lukewarm water, rinse well, and avoid bathing too frequently to preserve their natural oils. Some sources recommend bathing every 8-10 weeks, while others suggest a monthly schedule. The frequency of baths can vary depending on the individual dog's coat condition and activities. Regular ear checks and gentle cleaning are also important for their overall hygiene.
Does English Shepherd bark a lot?
The English Shepherd breed is known to bark, but they typically do so when they feel the need to vocalize about something. They may bark at strangers and exhibit herding instincts, which can lead to barking at perceived threats or when trying to control a situation. Lack of exercise can result in problem behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or digging. English Shepherds are described as old-fashioned farm collie types that are more vocal compared to other breeds. Desensitization techniques may be necessary for English Shepherds that bark at people, requiring patience and repetition. Overall, the breed is loyal, intelligent, and gentle, with a tendency to bark more compared to some other breeds.
How much exercise does English Shepherd need?
The English Shepherd is a highly active and energetic breed that requires at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day, with some sources recommending up to 2 hours. This exercise should include activities such as long walks, jogs, hikes, playtime, and training sessions to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Without adequate exercise, English Shepherds may become anxious and hyperactive. Regular physical activity is essential for their well-being, and they thrive on mental stimulation as well. Owners should aim for a mix of activities to meet their exercise needs, such as running, playing, and training.
How much food does a English Shepherd eat per day?
English Shepherds typically require about one cup of high-quality dry dog food per day, with the amount varying based on the caloric density of their diet. It is recommended to split this daily food intake into two to three meals for adults and seniors, while puppies up to four months old may need three meals per day. As the dog grows, the number of meals can be gradually reduced to two per day by the time they are nine to twelve months old. The total daily food intake for most English Shepherds is around three cups, divided into smaller meals. It is important to monitor the dog's weight and adjust the food quantity accordingly to maintain a healthy weight. Mixing in canned food or tasty toppers can help entice picky eaters or ensure adequate water intake.
How much does it cost to groom a English Shepherd monthly?
Based on the information provided, grooming an English Shepherd can cost between $40 to $300 per month, depending on the dog's size, coat condition, and grooming needs. Prices may vary based on factors such as the groomer's location, the dog's temperament, and additional services required. Smaller dogs generally cost less to groom compared to larger breeds, with average prices ranging from $30 to $150 per month for medium-sized dogs. Mobile groomers may charge around $75 for an average size dog, while grooming salons may offer packages with varying prices based on the dog's breed and size. It is important to note that the total charge for grooming services is determined by multiple factors, and additional charges may apply.
How much playtime does a English Shepherd need daily?
The English Shepherd breed is known for being high-energy and requires plenty of exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. It is recommended to provide them with at least 90 minutes of exercise each day, which can include three long walks, running in the yard, training sessions, active play, wrestling with other dogs, and engaging in activities like frisbee or agility courses. Daily play sessions lasting a few minutes can also be beneficial. Regular exercise, such as long walks, jogs, or hikes, is essential for English Shepherds, and they thrive in environments where they have jobs to keep them occupied.
Basic Info
What are the breed characteristics of English Shepherd?
The English Shepherd is a medium-sized breed known for its intelligence, gentle nature, and suitability for active families. They have a deep, wide chest, a level back, and are slightly longer than tall. English Shepherds are confident, energetic, and intelligent dogs that thrive when given a job to do. They are loyal and loving towards their family, but can be reserved around strangers and have a protective streak. This breed has a medium-length coat that can be straight, curly, or wavy, with various colorations. English Shepherds are described as alert, balanced, and multi-purpose dogs, with a high degree of loyalty and bravery. They are wonderful companions but may not be suitable for inexperienced dog owners.
What is the average litter size of English Shepherd?
The average litter size of English Shepherds ranges from 5 to 8 puppies, with 6 puppies being the most common number. However, litter sizes can vary from 1 to 12 puppies. A recent sample of 100 litters showed an average litter size of 8 puppies with a high survival rate of 96% to weaning. English Shepherds are known for their intelligence, high energy levels, and need for a job to do and ample space for exercise. They are a versatile working breed, originally bred as farm hands in England and southern Scotland.
What does a English Shepherd look like?
The English Shepherd is a medium-sized breed with a long, straight or wavy double coat that may come in various color combinations such as black and white, black and tan, sable and white, or tricolor. They have dark or medium brown eyes, folded ears, and a slightly rounded medium-length head. Males are typically taller and heavier than females, with males sometimes displaying urine marking behavior. The breed is known for being energetic, intelligent, active, agile, courageous, and gritty. English Shepherds have a feathered tail and floppy ears, resembling other herding and shepherd dogs. The traditional coat colors include black and white, black and tan, sable and white, tan and white, and tricolor black, white, and tan.
What is the typical lifespan of English Shepherd?
English Shepherds typically have a lifespan ranging from 10 to 15 years, with an average of 12 to 15 years according to multiple sources. While some data suggests a slightly lower average lifespan of around 11 years, overall, they are considered healthy dogs. Owners should be aware of common health issues and ensure their English Shepherds receive proper care, exercise, and veterinary attention to help them live a long and healthy life.
What is the origin of the English Shepherd?
The English Shepherd breed originated from collies brought to North America by early settlers from Britain and Ireland, sharing ancestry with the Border Collie, Rough Collie, and Australian Shepherd. They are descendants of shepherd dogs from England and southern Scotland, with a resemblance to the genetic group of Shepherds' Dogs from Scotland and Northern England. Despite being named as English Shepherds, the breed's origins are firmly rooted in North America, where they were bred from English and Scottish settler's dogs. English Shepherds were originally bred to be versatile farm helpers, performing tasks such as herding, varmint hunting, protecting poultry, and more. The breed's ancestry is believed to trace back to the Roman Empire, and they were brought to America during the 18th and 19th centuries.
What is the average size of English Shepherd?
The average size of an English Shepherd is medium, with males typically weighing between 50-65 pounds and females between 40-55 pounds. In terms of height, males stand around 20-24 inches tall while females are around 18-22 inches. The general range for the breed's weight is 35-65 pounds and height is 18-24 inches. English Shepherds are medium-sized dogs built for speed and agility, with a lifespan of around 10-14 years.
Living Conditions
Is English Shepherd suitable for city living?
The general consensus among sources is that English Shepherds are not well-suited for city or apartment living due to their high energy levels and need for ample space to exercise. They are described as active and athletic dogs, best suited for homes with access to a yard or farm where they can roam freely. English Shepherds are known to be gentle and devoted to their owners but also serve as bold and determined guardians. Their weather-resistant coat makes them adaptable to various climates. It is emphasized multiple times that they require regular exercise, such as long walks, to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Additionally, English Shepherds are recognized for their intelligence, loyalty, and herding instincts. Overall, it is recommended that potential owners provide a setting that allows these dogs to fulfill their natural instincts and energy levels, which may not be achievable in city or apartment environments.
Is English Shepherd good for seniors or low-activity homes?
The English Shepherd is a versatile and intelligent breed that thrives in an active and stimulating environment, requiring ample playtime, exercise, and mental stimulation to stay happy. They are best suited for active owners, families, or those with a yard for them to run and play in. This breed is very family-friendly, loving to be near their owners and not doing well when left alone for long periods. English Shepherds are herding dogs with high prey drives, but with proper training, they can be good around poultry. They are generally not suited for apartment living unless they have a companion to exercise with daily. English Shepherds are in the lower risk category for developing health issues, making them one of the most affordable breeds to insure. Overall, this breed is ideal for active homes and families who enjoy outdoor activities and can provide the necessary exercise and mental stimulation for these intelligent dogs.
Can English Shepherd live in hot weather?
English Shepherds have a unique weather-resistant coat that helps them stay warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather, making them adaptable to various climates. They are known to be tolerant of hot weather, although they are better suited for colder climates. These dogs are athletic, high-energy, and require plenty of exercise to stay happy and relaxed. English Shepherds are generally healthy but may be prone to conditions like hip dysplasia. Their double-coat provides insulation in inclement weather conditions. Overall, English Shepherds can live in hot weather, but extra care may be needed in warmer climates to ensure their well-being.
Is English Shepherd apartment friendly?
The English Shepherd breed is not considered apartment-friendly, as they require a substantial amount of exercise and space to run. They are better suited for suburban or rural homes where they have a job to do and room to roam. The breed's high energy levels make apartment living challenging, and they thrive in environments with outdoor activities and ample land. English Shepherds are not recommended for city living or for families seeking a low-energy or sedentary pet. It is emphasized multiple times across various sources that this breed is not suitable for apartment living unless they have access to daily outdoor activities and companionship.
Can English Shepherd live in cold weather?
English Shepherds are known to adapt well to cold weather conditions, thanks to their thick, wavy double coat that provides protection in cold and wet environments. They are generally tolerant of both cold and hot weather, but extra caution is advised in warmer climates, with suggestions for early-morning or late-night walks and ensuring proper hydration. The breed sheds year-round, with a heavier shedding period at times. While they can handle cold temperatures, owners should be mindful of extreme cold below 20°F to prevent hypothermia and frostbite. Overall, English Shepherds are weather-resistant, making them suitable for various climates, but attention to their coat maintenance and well-being in extreme conditions is essential.
Can English Shepherd be left alone during the day?
Key points extracted from the sources include: 1. English Shepherds should not be left alone for long periods of time. 2. They require mental stimulation and exercise to prevent anxiety and behavioral issues. 3. Puppies have different time limits for being left alone compared to adult dogs. 4. They are independent but enjoy company and playtime. 5. English Shepherds have herding instincts and high prey drives that need to be managed through training. 6. It is recommended not to leave them unsupervised in the house until they are older and have better impulse control. Overall, English Shepherds are not suited to being left alone for extended periods and require mental stimulation, exercise, and companionship to prevent anxiety and behavioral problems. They have herding instincts and high prey drives that need to be managed through training. It is advised to supervise them until they are older and have better impulse control.
Can English Shepherd live in small spaces?
The English Shepherd is a highly active and intelligent breed that requires demanding exercise and mental stimulation. They are not suited for small spaces like apartments and thrive best in a country house or on a farm where they have plenty of room to roam and work off their abundant energy. While they can adapt to living in a small space if all their needs are met, it is generally not ideal for this breed due to their high exercise requirements. English Shepherds are not recommended for apartment living unless they have access to outdoor activities daily or a companion to keep them active. They are best suited for families with space to accommodate their need for physical and mental stimulation.
Training Intelligence
Is English Shepherd easy to train?
The English Shepherd breed is generally considered easy to train due to their intelligence, eagerness to please, and quick learning abilities. They are described as agile and adept at both complex tasks and agility training. Their intelligence allows them to quickly grasp rules and commands, making them stand out in obedience classes. Consistency and firmness in training are emphasized as important factors for successful training. While some individuals may exhibit stubbornness or selective obedience, overall, English Shepherds are known for their loyalty, devotion, and ability to learn and retain commands efficiently.
What kind of activities are good for English Shepherd?
Key points for activities suitable for English Shepherds include: providing at least three long walks per day, along with 1-2 hours of playtime; taking them to dog parks for off-leash running and socialization once or twice a week; engaging in activities such as agility, training, barn hunt, dock diving, disc dog, drafting, and herding; incorporating mental games and training sessions; ensuring a good run, game of fetch, and training for young, healthy English Shepherds; engaging in dog sports to channel their herding instincts; and keeping physical activity to a minimum with short walks at specific times. The breed is known for being a quick learner, requiring demanding exercise and mental stimulation, and being suited for a country house setting. English Shepherds have a history of being trained for various tasks like herding livestock, vermin hunting, and more. Additionally, they have high prey drives but can be trained to behave well around poultry.
How intelligent is English Shepherd?
Key points about the intelligence of English Shepherds include their quick learning ability, high intelligence, curiosity, alertness, and eagerness to please. They are known for being intelligent, energetic, and needing mental and physical exercise to thrive. English Shepherds are versatile and have been trusted companions and working dogs for centuries, with a can-do attitude and a love for having a job to do. They are generally easy to train, loyal, and dedicated to pleasing their owners. Repeated ideas include their intelligence, high energy levels, need for mental stimulation and physical exercise, and their ability to bond closely with their humans. Overall, English Shepherds are intelligent, energetic, and loyal dogs that excel in various tasks and thrive in environments where they have a job to do and space to run and exercise.
What are common training challenges with English Shepherd?
The English Shepherd breed is known for being eager to please but can become bored with repetitive training methods, leading to resistance and stubbornness. They require both physical and mental challenges to stay engaged and benefit from obedience training to maintain discipline. Common health issues for English Shepherds include hip dysplasia and visual impairments, which can affect their joint health and overall well-being. Training an English Shepherd may be challenging due to their high intelligence and potential stubbornness, requiring patience and varied approaches. Additionally, they may take time to adjust to toilet training and teething, typically not fully trained until around 4-5 months of age. It is important for owners to be aware of these training challenges and health concerns when caring for an English Shepherd.
Breed
Is English Shepherd good with cats?
English Shepherds are generally good with cats, but their compatibility can vary based on the individual dog's temperament, socialization, and training. They are known to get along well with common household animals, including dogs and cats, and can be trusted with livestock and horses. However, their natural herding instinct and somewhat high prey drive may lead them to chase smaller animals like cats, hamsters, and Guinea pigs. Proper training and early socialization are key in ensuring English Shepherds coexist peacefully with cats and other pets. While some sources mention concerns about their herding tendencies potentially causing issues with cats, others highlight successful experiences of English Shepherds living harmoniously with feline companions.
Is English Shepherd good for first-time owners?
Key points about English Shepherds for first-time owners include their high trainability, loyalty, and intelligence. They are highly active and energetic dogs that require ample exercise, playtime, and socialization to stay mentally and physically stimulated. Early training and socialization are crucial for English Shepherds to thrive, especially in managing their herding instincts and prey drive. While they are generally friendly and laid-back, early exposure and consistent training are essential for shaping their behavior. English Shepherds are known to be good around poultry if trained properly. Overall, they can be a good fit for first-time dog owners who are willing to invest time and effort in training and socializing their pet.
Roles
Can English Shepherd be used as a therapy or service dog?
English Shepherds are versatile and intelligent dogs that excel in obedience, agility, and search and rescue work. They have been successfully certified as therapy dogs, providing comfort and companionship to residents in nursing homes and hospitals. While they are not typically trained as service dogs to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, English Shepherds have the potential to provide mobility support, work as medical alert dogs, or be trained as psychiatric service dogs. Their herding instincts can sometimes lead to reactivity and anxiety in pet homes, so proper mental stimulation and training are essential. Overall, English Shepherds are known for their trainability and suitability for various service industries, including animal therapy and as service animals.
Is English Shepherd a good guard dog?
The English Shepherd breed is known for being a good guard dog due to their wariness of strangers and their ability to perform guardian dog duties effectively. They are intelligent, gentle, and highly trainable dogs that excel in various tasks, including herding and guarding. English Shepherds are active and high-energy dogs that require daily mental and physical stimulation. They are often compared to Border Collies in terms of intelligence and trainability. While they may not be suitable for everyone due to their high energy levels, they can be a valuable addition to active families or farm settings where their guarding instincts can be utilized effectively.
Can English Shepherd be trained for herding or hunting?
The English Shepherd is a versatile working dog with strong herding instincts, capable of herding various types of livestock such as cattle, sheep, hogs, and poultry. They are also known for their tracking, hunting, and treeing abilities, making them valuable for a range of tasks beyond herding. English Shepherds have been successfully trained for hunting and can perform guardian dog duties. Their work ethic and adaptability allow them to excel in tasks such as herding livestock, hunting, digging up vermin, and even search and rescue operations. The breed's history as a herding and guardian dog highlights their all-around farm dog capabilities, making them a valuable asset in various working environments.
Is English Shepherd recognized by major kennel clubs?
The English Shepherd breed is recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) since 1927, initially known as the American Farm Shepherd before being renamed in 2003. The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize English Shepherds, leading to their exclusion from certain major dog shows. Despite this, English Shepherds have been registered with various kennel clubs for many decades, with the UKC emphasizing performance, temperament, and structure. The breed is not acknowledged by the AKC but is recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club, the Kennel Club of Great Britain, and the English Shepherd Club Registry. The coat color varieties recognized by the CKC are the standard and nonstandard, with the standard variety being black.
Exercise Energy
Can English Shepherd stay indoors with limited walks?
The English Shepherd breed requires ample exercise, training, and socialization to thrive. They are highly intelligent and active dogs that enjoy working, so they may not be content with limited walks and indoor confinement. Daily walks are essential for their physical and mental well-being, with recommendations ranging from 3 to 4 walks a day for about 15 minutes each. This breed is not suitable for apartment living due to their need for outdoor activities and space to roam. English Shepherds have a high prey drive, especially towards poultry, but with proper training, they can coexist peacefully. Overall, providing regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a structured routine are key to keeping an English Shepherd happy and well-behaved.
Ownership Cost
How much does a English Shepherd weigh?
The English Shepherd is a medium-sized breed of dog, typically weighing between 40 and 65 pounds (18-29 kg) and standing between 18 and 24 inches (46-61 cm) tall. Males are generally larger than females, with males weighing 50-65 pounds and females weighing 40-55 pounds. The average weight for male English Shepherds is around 52 pounds. The height range for males is 20-24 inches and for females is 18-22 inches. These dogs are known for their speed and agility, making them well-suited for various activities.
How much does a English Shepherd puppy cost?
English Shepherd puppies can range in price from $500 to $3,000 or more, with the average cost typically falling between $800 and $1,000. Factors that may influence the price include the breeder's reputation, the puppy's age and health, and the specific breeding lines. Prices can vary depending on location and breeder, with some puppies being offered for as low as $400 and others for as high as $1,200. It is recommended to speak directly with breeders for accurate pricing information.
What are the adoption fees for a English Shepherd?
The adoption fees for an English Shepherd typically range from $100 to $300, covering pre-adoption care, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering. Purchasing an English Shepherd puppy from a breeder may cost between $500 to $1200, while breeders may charge $2200 to $3500 based on breed standards and preferences. Adoption fees can vary widely, from $50 to $3000 or more, including initial supplies. National English Shepherd Rescue (NESR) assists in placing English Shepherds with adoption fees sometimes waived or around $40. Rehoming fees for specific cases can be around $100. Overall, adopting an English Shepherd is generally more affordable than buying from a breeder, with costs typically falling within the mentioned ranges.
Where can you adopt or buy a English Shepherd?
To adopt or buy an English Shepherd, individuals can visit the National English Shepherd Rescue website to find dogs and puppies available for adoption. The ESC Breeder Directory is also a resource to locate breeders in the area, many of whom have waiting lists. The National English Shepherd Rescue, Ltd (NESR) is a non-profit organization dedicated to placing English Shepherds in need of new homes across the US and North America. Adoption is recommended as a cost-effective option, with the average cost ranging from $100 to $300. Additionally, there are Facebook groups such as ISO English Shepherds and Rehomes that can assist in finding English Shepherds needing new homes. Overall, adopting an English Shepherd is a viable option with support available from rescue organizations and online communities.
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