Black and Tan English Shepherd FAQ

The English Shepherd is a breed of herding dog that descends from working dogs who were brought to the United States in the 17th century by early settlers. English Shepherds are highly intelligent, versatile, and adaptable dogs that excel at herding, hunting, and working on farms.

In terms of appearance, English Shepherds are medium-sized dogs with a sturdy and athletic build. They have a double coat that is typically black and tan, sable, or tricolor. Their coats are weather-resistant, which makes them suitable for working in a variety of environments and climates.

English Shepherds are known for their intelligence and trainability. They are quick learners and have a strong desire to please their owners. As herding dogs, English Shepherds have a natural instinct to control and move livestock. They are also skilled at other tasks such as hunting, tracking, and search and rescue.

English Shepherds are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their families. They are excellent with children and make great family pets. However, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Overall, the English Shepherd is a versatile and hardworking breed that excels at a variety of tasks. They make excellent working dogs and loyal family pets for those who are willing to provide them with the proper care and training they need.

Here are some Black and Tan English Shepherd Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the Black and Tan English Shepherd?

The old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd is a prestigious bloodline of working American farm dogs with a rich and storied history. See http://esbt.us/h

Is there are written standard for Black and Tan English Shepherds?

Yes, for decades, the Blankenship Bloodline Standard has been the model against which Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherds are selected and bred: http://esbt.us/s

So black and tan is not just a color?

A dog’s coat can be an inexpensive albeit inconclusive indicator of history and heredity. With its low barrier to entry, the coat is a convenient first step toward dog classification. In the case of a composite-bred English Shepherd dog, black and tan can be just a coat color. But with thoroughbred old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherds, the coat indicates a specific type from a regional bloodline of working farm dogs.

How much does a Black and Tan English Shepherd cost?

You should budget anywhere from $400 upwards to $800 or even more for an English Shepherd with top breed lines and a superior pedigree. The average cost for all English Shepherds sold in the U.S. is about $600.

How big do Black and Tan English Shepherd dogs get?

English Shepherds are a medium-sized breed of dog, typically weighing between 40 to 70 pounds (18 to 32 kg) and standing 18 to 23 inches (46 to 58 cm) tall at the shoulder. However, there can be some individual variation in size depending on factors such as genetics and diet. Male English Shepherds tend to be slightly larger than females. These dogs have a sturdy build and are well-muscled, with a strong neck and broad chest. They are bred to be versatile working dogs, capable of herding, hunting, and performing other tasks that require strength and agility.

Do Black and Tan English Shepherds make good pets?

Yes, English Shepherds can make great pets for the right family. They are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. They are also known for their versatility, as they can be trained for a variety of activities, such as herding, agility, obedience, and search and rescue work. English Shepherds are typically good with children and other pets if they are socialized properly from an early age.

However, it’s important to note that English Shepherds are active dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They may not be suitable for families who cannot provide them with enough physical and mental activity. They also have a strong instinct to herd, which can result in them trying to herd family members or other animals in the household. Training and socialization can help mitigate this behavior, but it’s important to be aware of this trait when considering an English Shepherd as a pet.

Overall, English Shepherds can make excellent pets for families who are committed to providing them with the exercise, training, and attention they need.

Can I shave my Black and Tan English Shepherd?

It is not recommended to shave an English Shepherd, as their coat serves an important function in regulating their body temperature and protecting their skin. English Shepherds have a double coat, which means they have a soft undercoat and a coarser outer coat. The undercoat helps to insulate the dog’s body, keeping them warm in the winter and cool in the summer, while the outer coat provides protection from the sun, wind, and other elements.

Shaving an English Shepherd can interfere with their natural ability to regulate their body temperature and can also put them at risk for sunburn, skin irritation, and other skin problems. It can also affect the texture and quality of their coat, potentially leading to long-term damage.

If an English Shepherd’s coat becomes matted or tangled, it’s best to work with a professional groomer who has experience working with double-coated breeds. They can help to remove mats and tangles without shaving the coat, and can also provide advice on how to properly care for an English Shepherd’s coat to keep it healthy and in good condition.

How common are Black and Tan English Shepherds?

English Shepherds are considered to be a relatively rare breed of dog. While they were once a popular breed in the United States during the early 20th century, their numbers declined significantly after World War II.

Despite their rarity, there are still breeders who are dedicated to preserving and promoting the English Shepherd breed. The breed has a loyal following among enthusiasts who appreciate their versatile working abilities and affectionate personalities. Additionally, there are several English Shepherd rescue organizations that work to find homes for abandoned or homeless English Shepherds.

It’s important to note that while English Shepherds may not be as well-known as some other breeds, they can still make excellent companions for the right family. As with any breed, it’s important to do research and choose a reputable breeder or rescue organization when considering an English Shepherd as a pet.

If you’re looking for a puppy, you will probably have to go on a waiting list. For litter announcements, join this mailing list http//:esbt.us/j

How long do Black and Tan English Shepherds live?

English Shepherds have a relatively long lifespan for a medium-sized breed of dog. On average, they can live between 12 to 15 years, although some individuals may live longer with proper care and attention. Like all dogs, the lifespan of an English Shepherd can be influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and access to veterinary care.

To help ensure a long and healthy life for an English Shepherd, it’s important to provide them with regular exercise, a balanced and nutritious diet, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian. Maintaining good dental hygiene and providing them with mental stimulation and socialization can also help keep them healthy and happy throughout their lifespan.

Are Black and Tan English Shepherds hypoallergenic?

No, English Shepherds are not considered to be a hypoallergenic breed. Like all dogs, they produce dander, which is a common allergen that can trigger allergic reactions in some people.

English Shepherds also have a double coat, which means they shed seasonally and require regular grooming to maintain their coat. This shedding can further contribute to the amount of dander in the environment.

While no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, there are some breeds that are considered to be more suitable for people with allergies. These breeds typically have a single coat, shed less frequently, and produce less dander. If you have allergies and are considering getting a dog, it’s a good idea to spend time around the breed you are interested in to see if you have a reaction before making a decision. Additionally, regular grooming and cleaning can help to minimize allergens in the environment.

What color are Black and Tan English Shepherds?

Glossy black with clearly defined markings of Mahogany brown to Golden tan on cheeks, chest, legs and muzzle and over each eye and a bar across the chest. Small amount of white on the chest and under the stomach is permissible, also a white ring neck on the black and tan English Shepherds. Jet black English Shepherds may have white markings as long as the white is perfectly balanced and not any white on the body. The most desirable color for English Shepherds is a glossy black with Rusty Golden Tan markings with a good bar across the chest.

Do Black and Tan English Shepherds bark a lot?

English Shepherds are known to be vocal dogs and may bark frequently, especially if they are not given enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, excessive barking can be mitigated with proper training and socialization from an early age.

Like many herding breeds, English Shepherds have a strong instinct to alert their owners to potential threats or changes in their environment. They may bark to alert their owners to visitors or unusual activity, or to communicate with other dogs.

It’s important to note that excessive barking can be a sign of underlying issues, such as anxiety, boredom, or lack of exercise. To prevent excessive barking, English Shepherds require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, as well as training to help them learn when it’s appropriate to bark and when it’s not.

Overall, English Shepherds can make great pets for the right family, but they do require a certain level of training, socialization, and exercise to help prevent excessive barking and other behavior issues. If you are considering an English Shepherd as a pet, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable breeder or rescue organization to ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-socialized dog.

What is the difference between a border collie and an Black and Tan English Shepherd?

Border Collies and English Shepherds are two different breeds of herding dogs that share many similarities, but there are also some differences between them. Here are some of the key differences:

Origin: Border Collies were originally developed in the Scottish and English border regions, while English Shepherds were developed in the United States.

Appearance: Border Collies are typically smaller and more lightly built than English Shepherds. They have a distinctive black and white coat, while English Shepherds can come in a variety of colors, including black and white, sable and white, and tricolor.

Temperament: Both breeds are highly intelligent and energetic, but English Shepherds tend to be more independent and have a stronger prey drive. They may also be more reserved with strangers than Border Collies, who tend to be more outgoing and social.

Work style: Border Collies are known for their intense focus and quick movements, while English Shepherds are often described as “steady” and “methodical” in their approach to herding.

Training: Both breeds are highly trainable and excel at obedience and agility work, but Border Collies are often considered to be the most trainable of all dog breeds. They are also known for their ability to problem-solve and think independently, which can make them challenging to train for novice owners.

Overall, both Border Collies and English Shepherds are intelligent, active, and versatile breeds that excel at herding and other types of work. The best breed for you will depend on your lifestyle, personality, and experience as a dog owner.

Do Black and Tan English Shepherds have rear dew claws?

A dewclaw on the inside of each front leg is the norm in Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherds, as it is in all domestic dogs. Shepherds believed these working dogs’ double dewclaws provided stability and kept them from sinking too deeply into the rugged terrain’s snow and mud. The Black and Tan English Shepherd bloodline is also known for having rear double dew claws.

At what age do Black and Tan English Shepherds stop growing?

Black and Tan English Shepherds are physically and mentally mature at about 24 months old.

Are Black and Tan English Shepherds good guard dogs?

English Shepherds have a natural protective instinct and can make good watchdogs, alerting their owners to potential threats or unusual activity. However, they are typically not aggressive and are not usually used as guard dogs in the same way that breeds like German Shepherds or Rottweilers are.

English Shepherds are known for being loyal, intelligent, and trainable, but they are also typically friendly and social with both people and other animals. They are not typically prone to aggression or territorial behavior unless they feel that their family is in danger.

Overall, English Shepherds can be a good choice for a family pet and watchdog, but they are not typically used as guard dogs in the same way that some other breeds are. Proper training and socialization from an early age can help to ensure that your English Shepherd is well-behaved and responsive to your commands, which can help to prevent unwanted behavior.

Do Black and Tan English Shepherds’ ears stand up?

Ears typically wide apart, stand slightly outward at the base with a sharp bend and lie close to the head when relaxed, raised up slightly when alert. Variation in ear set is common and of trivial significance.

Do Black and Tan English Shepherds get along with cats?

Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherds make great family pets because they are gentle and patient with kids. Most are also tolerant of other animals, including cats.

Is an Black and Tan English Shepherd a good family dog?

Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherds are great family dogs! Most of these dogs will be gentle and patient around kids, but, given their herding instinct, they may try to herd children by nipping at their heels or chasing them around. Firm, consistent training will help with discouraging this behavior in your English Shepherd.

Are Black and Tan English Shepherds aggressive?

Most English Shepherds do not tend to stray or wander away from the home. An English Shepherd should never be aggressive (bite) without provocation. However, he or she may demand that unfamiliar visitors “halt!” until you say otherwise.

Are Black and Tan English Shepherds stubborn?

Due to her high intelligence, the Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd requires as much mental stimulation as she does physical. Without proper training and socialization, she can become stubborn and bossy.

Do Black and Tan English Shepherds have blue eyes?

Black and Tan English Shepherds usually have brown or amber eyes.

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Tony Bierman, "Black and Tan English Shepherd FAQ," OBTESA, Accessed December 21, 2024, http://esbt.us/l.