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The English Shepherd is a highly intelligent breed that excels as a family pet. They thrive on interaction and mental stimulation, making them a great choice for active families.
Their high energy levels require regular exercise and playtime, which can be achieved through activities like hiking, agility training, or simply playing fetch in the backyard. This breed is not suited for sedentary households.
English Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent watchdogs. However, they are not aggressive and will generally get along well with other pets and children in the household.
Their medium to large size means they require plenty of space to run around and play, but they are also happy to adapt to smaller living spaces with regular exercise and attention.
English Shepherd Breeders
English Shepherd breeders are dedicated to preserving the breed's unique characteristics and working ability. They prioritize the breed's intelligence, agility, and strong herding instinct.
The English Shepherd is a rare breed, with only a few hundred registered each year, making it essential to find a reputable breeder who has experience with the breed. They often have a strong connection to the breed's history and working heritage.
English Shepherd breeders typically have a deep understanding of the breed's needs and requirements, including regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Temperament and Personality
The English Shepherd is a courageous and gritty breed, always ready to perform the work for which it was bred at the drop of a hat.
They're alert and eager to please, making them a devoted family companion.
Their loyalty to their family is unwavering, making them a great watchdog.
As a result, they thrive on interaction and attention from their family members.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a pleasure to work with, as long as you're consistent and patient.
Their strong work ethic is a testament to their breeding and history as a working dog.
History and Origins
The English Shepherd breed has a rich history that dates back to the British Isles, where it's believed to have originated from a combination of native dogs and sheep and cattle dogs brought by the Romans in 55 BC.
These early dogs were used to herd livestock for the Roman troops, and when the livestock dwindled, the extra dogs were left behind to be used by the native population to breed with similar herding dogs.
The English Shepherd was brought to the American colonies by the first settlers, where it thrived and developed its unique herding and guarding abilities.
Its versatility and all-purpose nature made it a valuable asset to farmers and herders, and it's been recognized by the United Kennel Club since 1927.
Finding Reputable Breeders
Look for breeders who are transparent about their breeding program, including the health clearances of their dogs.
Reputable breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, so they'll have up-to-date health clearances on file.
They'll also be willing to share information about the ancestry and temperament of their dogs.
Be wary of breeders who seem evasive or secretive about their breeding practices.
A good breeder will be happy to provide references from other families who have purchased dogs from them.
They'll also be willing to let you visit their facility and meet the parents of the puppy you're interested in.
Remember, a reputable breeder will be more concerned with finding the right home for their dog than with making a quick sale.
Sources
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