Black & Tan English Shepherd

We started learning about the English Shepherd breed when we were looking to add a dog to our farm, and are now helping to preserve the Old-fashioned Black & Tan lines. Though these dogs have a been around for a long time, they are not as well known as other farm dogs.

English Shepherd is an entirely American breed, derived from dogs brought to our country by immigrants from the British Isles. The breed was adapted to be an all-purpose farmer’s helper, back when small family farms were a more common way of life. As a versatile dog, English Shepherds are bred for herding, protection, companionship, varmint control, hunting, and other related tasks. Outside of the farm, these dogs excel at sports like agility, nose work, and barn hunt.

If you have interest in a puppy, contact us to be added to our potential adopters list for next year.

Here are some great resources to help you learn more about this breed:
National English Shepherd Rescue
English Shepherd Club Registry
Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd Association

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Rhona was our first English Shepherd. We got lucky with her, finding a reliable long-time breeder just a few miles from home with an available litter when we were ready for a puppy. As Rhona grew up, we were happy to see her exhibiting the standard characteristics of the breed. She’s an amazing companion, spending time both indoors and outdoors. She is a highly athletic and energetic dog, always seeking ways to help when we’re working on the farm.

When we started to consider breeding her, we had an OFA hip evaluation done, which classified her hips as Good. We also had her Embark tested for genetic conditions, and she came back free from all conditions that we tested. Rhona had two litters, and she is now enjoying retirement.

Hamish came from Rhona’s first litter. We like to say that he chose us. As a little puppy, he learned to climb out of the whelping box before the others. He has continued to be a curious explorer, and he’s showing some of those classic English Shepherd traits. He likes how the chickens move when he approaches, but he doesn’t chase. He follows his mom’s lead when we’re working the sheep. He is (almost) always nearby when we’re working outdoors or just chillin’ in the house.