English Shepherd
Also known as Farm Collie · Farm Shepherd · American Farm Shepherd
United States, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–58 cm
- Weight
- 18–30 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–13 yrs
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Versatile
- Watchful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
Despite its name, the English Shepherd is an American all-purpose farm collie. It is medium-sized with a long, straight to wavy coat, usually black and white, black and tan, sable and white or tricolour. It is valued as a practical, versatile working dog.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 46–58 cm
- Adult weight
- 18–30 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
10–13 years
Most English Shepherds live 10–13 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
English Shepherds are typically intelligent, loyal and eager to help, and they bond closely with their families. They can be watchful with strangers and take guarding the home seriously.
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Versatile
- Watchful
Food
For a typical 24 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,210 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 960 ml–1.4 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayThey need an hour or more of activity a day, with plenty of mental stimulation. Herding, agility and obedience suit them very well.
Grooming & shedding
Brush the double coat once or twice a week, with extra work during shedding seasons. Check behind the ears and the leg feathering for knots.
Health
Reward-based training works well with this willing breed. Like other collie types, some carry the MDR1 mutation, which makes certain drugs dangerous, so DNA testing is wise. See a vet for lameness or eye changes.
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- MDR1 drug sensitivity
- Cataracts
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
- MDR1 DNA test
- Eye examination
Not every English Shepherd is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The breed comes from collie-type dogs taken to North America by British and Irish settlers, so it shares roots with the Border Collie, Rough Collie and Australian Shepherd. It worked on farms across the eastern states, herding stock, guarding and catching vermin. The UKC has registered it since 1927, under the name American Farm Shepherd until 2003.
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the UKC; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a English Shepherd right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–13 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
English Shepherd FAQ
How big does a English Shepherd get?
Adult English Shepherds typically stand about 46–58 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–30 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do English Shepherds live?
Typically 10–13 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a English Shepherd need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a English Shepherd need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are English Shepherds easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do English Shepherds shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are English Shepherds good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a English Shepherd live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do English Shepherds have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, mdr1 drug sensitivity. Not every English Shepherd is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.