The English Shepherd is a wonderful working dog, great for family and farm, but they are not for everyone. They are an intelligent, high energy breed that needs daily mental and physical exercise. Please learn more about these wonderful dogs before you bring one in to your home.

The English Shepherd is a practical, "loose-eyed," working dog, with instincts to heel and drive livestock. They will adapt to the work at hand and will herd cattle, sheep, hogs or poultry. Some have been trained for hunting and rescue. Stories of courage and problem solving are common. The English Shepherd is energetic and athletic, yet very gentle. They are noted for their calm good judgment and are content to curl up at the owner's feet at the end of a busy day. Read Abby's Tale for an example of the English Shepherd working attitude. Abby may be exceptionally dedicated but she's very typical of the English Shepherd breed.

While very happy on a farm with chores to do, the English Shepherd makes an excellent family companion. Because of its working background and devotion to family the English Shepherd makes a great companion for an active family committed to involving their dog in their daily life. They want to be part of the family and remain a working dog. The English Shepherd is happiest when he has a job to do; watching the kids, escorting the family to the park, and guarding the property from the wily UPS driver are all tasks the suburban English Shepherd excels at.

An English Shepherd without a job will create one for himself, so families without the time to train or involve their dog in daily routines should steer away from this breed.

For more information on the breed, and the National English Shepherd Rescue organization, visit the National English Shepherd Club.

The above description is borrowed from the National English Shepherd Rescue website. Much more information about the breed and our rescue organization is available at their website.