English Shepherds are medium-sized dogs. English Shepherds are usually 18 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 65 pounds. Females are usually 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 50 pounds.

English Shepherds stop growing in height around 12 to 18 months of age. However, they might continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are about two to three years old.

English Shepherds come in six predominant color patterns: black and white, black and tan, black, white and tan, sable and white, and tan and white.

Yes, English Shepherds shed. They have a double coat consisting of a dense undercoat and a longer, protective outer coat. This coat helps them adapt to various weather conditions but also means they shed year-round, with more significant shedding occurring during seasonal changes, particularly in the spring and fall.

Brushing a few times a week can help manage shedding and keep their coat healthy by removing loose hairs. During heavy shedding periods, more frequent brushing might be necessary to keep the shedding under control. Despite their shedding, English Shepherds are generally considered easy to groom due to the coat’s texture, which doesn’t tend to mat easily.

Yes, English Shepherds are good with kids. English Shepherds tend to be gentle and patient with children and often form strong bonds with them. Their herding instincts might lead them to try to “herd” kids by gently nudging or guiding them, but this behavior can be managed with proper training. As with any breed, it’s important to supervise interactions between dogs and young children to ensure that both the dog and the kids are comfortable and safe.

English Shepherds can be good with other dogs, but their compatibility with other dogs can depend on several factors. English Shepherds who are well-socialized from a young age are more likely to get along with other dogs. Early exposure to different dogs in various settings helps them learn how to interact appropriately. 

English Shepherds are generally friendly and outgoing, which can make them good companions for other dogs. However, they do have a strong protective instinct and might be wary of unfamiliar dogs until they get to know them. As a herding breed, English Shepherds might display herding behaviors toward other dogs, such as trying to nudge or direct them. This behavior is usually harmless but can be misunderstood by other dogs.

English Shepherds can be good with cats, but it largely depends on the individual dog’s temperament, socialization, and training. English Shepherds have strong herding instincts, which might lead them to try to herd or chase cats. This behavior can be managed with proper training and supervision, especially if the dog is introduced to cats at a young age. Every dog is unique, so some English Shepherds might be more naturally inclined to get along with cats, while others may need more guidance and training.

Yes, English Shepherds bark. The breed is vocal, especially when they are working or alerting their people to something unusual. Their barking is typically more of a communication tool, used to signal the presence of strangers or other animals, rather than constant noise. As with any breed, the amount of barking can vary depending on the individual dog’s temperament and training.

Yes, English Shepherds are good family dogs. They are affectionate with their families, thrive on companionship, and enjoy being involved in family activities. They are naturally protective, making them good watchdogs. Their high intelligence makes them easy to train and integrate into family life.

English Shepherds have a lot of energy, which makes them great companions for active families. They enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, running, and playing, which can be a fun way to keep both the dog and the family members active. Without enough physical activity, they can become bored and might develop behavioral issues. They are best suited for families who can provide them with the time and attention they need.

Yes, English Shepherds are relatively easy to train. English Shepherds are very intelligent dogs, capable of learning commands and tasks quickly. They are naturally inclined to want to please their pet parents and tend to enjoy working alongside their humans and performing tasks, whether it’s basic obedience or more complex commands. English Shepherds are versatile and can excel in various types of training, including obedience, agility, herding, and even therapy work. Their adaptability makes them suitable for a wide range of activities and jobs.

Just keep in mind that even if a certain dog breed is known to be easy to train, training any dog requires a long-term commitment.

Yes, English Shepherds cuddle with their family members. They form strong bonds with their people and enjoy being close to them, whether sitting by their side, lying at their feet, or snuggling up on the couch. While their primary nature is that of a working dog, they also have an affectionate side. However, like all dogs, their preference for cuddling can vary among individuals.

Yes, English Shepherds are very smart. They are considered one of the more intelligent dog breeds, known for their quick learning and problem-solving abilities. Their natural intelligence allows them to think independently and make decisions, especially in situations where they need to manage livestock or perform complex tasks. They are highly trainable and versatile, capable of excelling in various roles, from herding and farm work to obedience training and even service dog work.

Yes, English Shepherds are friendly dogs. They are typically very affectionate with their families, forming strong bonds and enjoying close companionship. Although they are naturally protective, especially of their family and home, English Shepherds are not usually aggressive. They tend to be cautious around strangers at first, but once they sense that someone is not a threat, they can be quite friendly and welcoming.

No, an English Shepherd is not the same as a Border Collie. Both breeds share a herding background and some similar traits, but they are distinct in terms of origin, temperament, work style, and physical characteristics.

Known for being a well-rounded farm dog, the English Shepherd has a balanced temperament, making the breed good not only for herding but also as a family companion. They are known for their calm, thoughtful approach to work, often showing an independent streak. English Shepherds are also slightly larger and more robust than Border Collies. 

Border Collies are highly energetic and intensely focused on herding. They are driven and fast and often work closely with their handlers, excelling in tasks that require precision and speed.

English Shepherds live about 12 to 15 years on average. This can vary depending on factors such as genetics, overall health, diet, and the level of care they receive throughout their lives. Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can help ensure they live a long and healthy life.

The Australian Shepherd and the English Shepherd are both intelligent herding breeds with some similarities, but they have distinct differences. The Australian Shepherd is more specialized, energetic, and intense, excelling in competitive environments and tasks that require close cooperation with a handler. The English Shepherd is more versatile, independent, and calm, making the breed well-suited to a broader range of tasks on a farm and as a family companion.

No, English Shepherds don’t have a lot of health problems, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain issues. Being aware of these potential problems can help manage their health and ensure they lead a long, happy life.

English Shepherds are prone to some diseases and health issues, including:

• Hip dysplasia: This is a common condition in many dog breeds where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket properly. It can lead to arthritis and discomfort. 

• Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia involves a malformation of the elbow joint, which can cause lameness and pain. 

• Eye issues: Some English Shepherds are prone to eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, or Collie eye anomaly (CEA). 

• MDR1 gene mutation: Also known as multi-drug resistance 1 or P-glycoprotein deficiency, the MDR1 gene mutation is a genetic condition that affects the dog’s ability to metabolize certain medications, including some heartworm medications, sedatives, chemotherapy drugs, and others. This mutation can lead to serious adverse reactions when the affected dog is exposed to specific drugs.

No, English Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. Like all dogs, English Shepherds produce dander, which is a common allergen. Dander consists of tiny skin flakes that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. English Shepherds shed their coat, which can contribute to allergens in the environment.