Colors: black and tan, black, white and tan, sable and white, black and white.

Living: A working farm dog, the english shepherd would probably do best in a country farm setting, dong vari

Recognized: CKC, UKC, NKC, APRI, ACR

Description

The English Shepherd is a working dog that is qualified to perform a variety of tasks. The English Shepherd is a good herding dog for farmer"s livestock. They work well by themselves or under supervision. English Shepherds makes great companions and are always fun to be around. They are very friendly, happy and hard working dogs. They are good with children, and do not specialize in a single species to herd. They can herd a variety, including pigs, sheep, cattle and even poultry. The English Shepherd is known to be more "loose-eyed", not using stare tactics to herd as much as the Border Collie. English Shepherds have been known as the "good ol" farm dog", because they perform a variety of tasks. They have even been known to aid in arguments between children and help them walk. Some are so personable that owners claim that "by the time they are five or six, you can carry on a decent conversation with him." English Shepherds make excellent helpers and pets, as they are medium-sized dogs with big hearts. They have a broad muzzle, broad drop ears and a long tail. Sometimes the tail is naturally bobbed. They have a double coat with fur that may be straight or curly, with feathering on the legs and tail. The typical American farm dog, English Shepherds make excellent friends with their masters.

Temperament

The English Shepherd temperament is the defining characteristic of the breed, with great intelligence and often a unique type of kindness for those in his home, both animals and people. The English Shepherd is often an independent worker. English Shepherds are adaptable and learn routines quickly. Some can be watchful of strangers and are 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. The English Shepherd frequently exhibits an independent, bossy or "enforcer of the rules" streak in his temperament. If the dog"s desire to enforce order is not channeled and directed to a suitable end by a strong, confident leader, he may exhibit many undesirable behaviors. English shepherds can thrive as companion dogs in many environments. This breed was selected on diverse small family farms in the past and has been selected to work in a partnership arrangement with his master.

Excercise

Moderate exercise with little grooming. English Shepherds are a high energy breed, but adapt well to slower environments.

Grooming

English Shepherds have a double coat that is plentiful with long, slightly coarse, straight or wavy hair (except on the face or legs). The undercoat is soft and fine. Any dirt collected on the coat tends to be cleaned on its own. Twice weekly brushing wil

Health

Major concerns: CHD

Minor concerns: elbow dysplasia

Occasionally seen: none

Suggested tests: hip, elbow