A History of the old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd
Historically, the old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd dog was essential to the lives of many rural Tennesseans. But the utility of these all-purpose working dogs spread beyond the borders of Tennessee. In the Southeast, Black and Tan English Shepherds were well-known to farmers in Alabama, Mississippi, and Georgia. To the west, these gritty dogs were especially useful to cattle ranchers in Texas.[1]Guy Gordon, “How the English Shepherd Became a Cattle Herder,” The San Francisco Examiner, December 1, 1957 To the north, Black and Tan English Shepherd dogs earned a living on farmsteads throughout the Ohio river valley. And further east, these dogs were well-known to rural citizens of the Mid-Atlantic region. But the history and use of these farm dogs is particularly well-documented in Tennessee.
On dairy farms, cattle ranches and rural family homes, the Black and Tan English Shepherd provided a variety of essential services. Horace Curtis of Algood, Tennessee writes about his black and tans from the early nineteen-hundreds. He tells of their ability to eradicate vermin, protect children, and drive cattle.[2]Horace Curtis, “A Match for Man or Beast,” English Shepherd Club of America’s Who’s Who Breeder Manual, pg 22 At about the same time, John Blankenship’s father rode into town on his old gray mare. Charles Blankenship of Wilson County kept a black and tan English Shepherd at his side to drive home the livestock he purchased.[3]John Blankenship, “The Blankenships’ Best Friend,” English Shepherd Club of America’s Who’s Who Breeder Manual, pg 19 Further east, Walter Oglivie of Allisona pushed his cattle through the thick woods of the Cumberland Mountains. He followed on horseback while a pair of black and tan English shepherds drove his stock over the narrow mountain paths. Upon reaching the rail head in Pikeville, Oglivie and his two dogs loaded the steers into train cars.[4]Walter Oglivie, “Pete The Mountain Dog,” English Shepherd Club of America’s Who’s Who Breeder Manual, pg 25
It is difficult to overstate the influence of John and Pauline Blankenship on the Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd bloodline. Over the span of four decades, the Blankenships bred dogs on their family farm in Rutherford County.[5]Josephine Murphy, “Sold on Shepherds,” The Nashville Tennessean Magazine, May 23, 1953 John and Pauline Blankenship were master farmers,[6]“Rutherford Countians First Man, Wife Team in Plowing Contest”, Nashville Banner, September 22, 1956[7]“Farmer Blankenship Will Plow for National Title,”, The Rutherford Courier, September 11, 1955 respected community leaders, and arguably the most prolific breeders[8]“English Shepherd Training School Set in August,” The Rutherford Courier, July 21, 1953[9]“Named Board Member of Shepherd Club,” The Daily News-Journal, August 10, 1953[10]“English Shepherd to Observe Pioneer Days,” The Daily News-Journal, July 17, 1953 of English Shepherds in the history of the breed. The Blankenships’ dogs were selected and bred to bring in cows, herd sheep, catch and hold hogs, and load livestock into loading chutes.[11]Murphy, op. cit. Advertised as “the world’s best all-purpose dog,” a Blankenship dog was also your faithful companion and an ardent night watchman. John Blankenship writes of a female black and tan English Shepherd named “Queen” whose ancestry could be traced back 100 years through a line of purebreds in Tennessee.[12]Blankenship, op. cit. With his assertion, Blankenship establishes the existence of Old-fashioned Black and Tan English shepherds in Tennessee around 1850.
Mr. and Mrs. Tom Stodghill traveled to middle Tennessee in the early nineteen-fifties.[13]“Some Farm Dogs Said True English Shepherds,” The Rutherford Courier, January 23, 1953 Stodghill’s grandfather was a native of Rutherford County named George Dromgoole. Dromgoole used black and tan English Shepherds to work his cattle. So when Dromgoole moved his family to Texas in the late nineteenth century, he brought his cattle dogs along with him. Sixty years later, his grandson founded the English Shepherd Club of America in Quinlan, Texas. When Stodghill needed new blood for his English Shepherd breeding program, he returned to middle Tennessee. The Stodghills and Blankenships spent several days together, travelling the rural counties of DeKalb, Jackson, Putnam and Wilson. Their search bore fruit, finding middle Tennessee families which had been using these dogs for generations to manage their livestock. The markings, performance and behavior of the unregistered dogs led Stodghill and Blankenship to assert that they had been bred true down through the years. A number of these middle Tennessee dogs were registered and used to form the foundation of the Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd bloodline.[14]Farm Dogs, op. cit. Over the next several decades, the Blankenships, Stodghill and other members of the ESCOA would proceed to breed and ship the descendants of middle Tennessee’s black and tan English Shepherds to all fifty United States.[15]Tom D. Stodghill, “All Fifty States,” English Shepherd Club of America’s Who’s Who Breeder Manual, pg 15
Today, the bloodline of the Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd is at risk. As lifestyles in America have shifted, these rare and historic dogs have dwindled in population. But fortunately, a few like-minded advocates have formalized as a Tennessee nonprofit corporation. The mission of the Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd Association is to assist with breeding, registration and training. OBTESA works to preserve the unique qualities of the bloodline, to preserve the integrity of the bloodline, and to protect the longevity of the bloodline. The OBTESA Breeder Incubator program identifies and supports select breeders who are committed to the revitalization of the Old-fashioned Black and Tan English Shepherd bloodline by providing mentorship, resources and quality breeding stock. Visit www.obtesa.com for more information.
English Shepherd Frequently Asked Questions
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Black and Tan English Shepherds are physically and mentally mature at about 24 months old.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Black and Tan English Shepherds usually have brown or amber eyes.
References
| ↑1 | Guy Gordon, “How the English Shepherd Became a Cattle Herder,” The San Francisco Examiner, December 1, 1957 |
|---|---|
| ↑2 | Horace Curtis, “A Match for Man or Beast,” English Shepherd Club of America’s Who’s Who Breeder Manual, pg 22 |
| ↑3 | John Blankenship, “The Blankenships’ Best Friend,” English Shepherd Club of America’s Who’s Who Breeder Manual, pg 19 |
| ↑4 | Walter Oglivie, “Pete The Mountain Dog,” English Shepherd Club of America’s Who’s Who Breeder Manual, pg 25 |
| ↑5 | Josephine Murphy, “Sold on Shepherds,” The Nashville Tennessean Magazine, May 23, 1953 |
| ↑6 | “Rutherford Countians First Man, Wife Team in Plowing Contest”, Nashville Banner, September 22, 1956 |
| ↑7 | “Farmer Blankenship Will Plow for National Title,”, The Rutherford Courier, September 11, 1955 |
| ↑8 | “English Shepherd Training School Set in August,” The Rutherford Courier, July 21, 1953 |
| ↑9 | “Named Board Member of Shepherd Club,” The Daily News-Journal, August 10, 1953 |
| ↑10 | “English Shepherd to Observe Pioneer Days,” The Daily News-Journal, July 17, 1953 |
| ↑11 | Murphy, op. cit. |
| ↑12 | Blankenship, op. cit. |
| ↑13 | “Some Farm Dogs Said True English Shepherds,” The Rutherford Courier, January 23, 1953 |
| ↑14 | Farm Dogs, op. cit. |
| ↑15 | Tom D. Stodghill, “All Fifty States,” English Shepherd Club of America’s Who’s Who Breeder Manual, pg 15 |
8 thoughts on “The Black and Tan English Shepherd”
Comments are closed.