Things to Think About Before Getting an English Shepherd

You've probably scrolled past a dozen "top family dog" lists and never once seen the English Shepherd on them. That's a mistake — and it might just be the best-kept secret in the dog world.

Here's the promise: by the end of this guide, you'll know exactly whether this smart, loyal, high-energy breed fits your life — or whether you should keep looking.

We'll cover their personality, energy needs, training, grooming, health, cost, and the one dealbreaker most people overlook.

Let's dig in.

English Shepherds Are All About Their People

First things first: this is a companion dog to the core.

They don't pick one favorite human and ignore everyone else. They bond with the whole family — kids, adults, and often the other pets too.

Expect an affectionate, playful shadow who follows you room to room. After a long walk, they'll happily curl up beside you.

But here's the catch: they are not couch potatoes. They cuddle after they've moved — not instead of it.

Smart, Willing, and Easy to Train

Plenty of dogs are smart. Fewer are smart and eager to cooperate.

The English Shepherd is both. They pick things up fast and genuinely want to please you.

That means training feels like teamwork, not a battle of wills.

Want to keep that clever brain happy? Give them a job.

Energy to Burn (And Then Some)

You absolutely need to know this before anything else: these dogs need a lot of exercise.

We're talking long walks, hikes, backyard runs, or dog sports — most days of the week.

A yard isn't required, but it definitely helps.

So what happens if you skip it?

A bored English Shepherd is an anxious, restless English Shepherd — and that often turns into chewing, digging, and other destructive habits.

Live in an apartment?

It can work — but only if you're extra committed to getting outside every single day.

Skip the walks and you'll feel it in your furniture.

Separation Anxiety Is a Real Thing

Here's the honest truth most breed lists gloss over.

English Shepherds were bred to work closely alongside people. Being left alone for long stretches goes against everything they are.

If you're out of the house 10 hours a day with no backup plan, this may not be your breed.

But it's not automatically a no. Here's how owners make it work:

• ✓Hire a midday dog walker
• ✓Arrange a pet sitter or doggy daycare
• ✓Consider a second dog for companionship
• ✓Leave puzzle toys to occupy their mind
• ✕Leave them alone all day with no plan

Great with Kids, Dogs, and Even Cats

Here's where the English Shepherd really shines as a family dog.

When properly socialized, they're gentle and trustworthy around children.

They usually get along with other dogs and even cats — especially pets they've been raised alongside.

Fun quirk: their herding instinct means they'd rather gather the family than chase anyone off.

But early socialization is the key ingredient here.

Grooming Is Manageable — If You Keep Up With It

Good news: the English Shepherd's beautiful double coat isn't high-maintenance.

The catch? It sheds seasonally — usually big blowouts in spring and fall.

Regular brushing keeps it under control the rest of the year.

Professional groomers aren't required — but they can make those seasonal sheds a whole lot easier.

Health and Lifespan

Overall, English Shepherds are a hardy, healthy breed.

Most live a good long life of around 12–15 years.

Like all breeds, they can be prone to a few issues — most notably hip dysplasia and cataracts.

What About the Price?

Here's a pleasant surprise.

Compared to many purebreds, English Shepherds are refreshingly affordable.

Just remember: the purchase price is only the beginning. Budget for food, vet care, grooming tools, and the odd chewed-up shoe during those under-exercised days.

Frequently Asked Questions