According to legend, the English Shepherd is almost pure Roman sheep and cattle dog, originally brought to the British Isles by Caesar when he invaded in 55 BC He used these dogs to herd the livestock brought along to feed his troops. As the livestock was depleted, surplus dogs were left along the way, and were used by local natives and interbred with existing types of dogs with similar "herding" talents, to intensify those instincts. This multi-purpose breed was highly prized as it was used to herd valuable livestock and to protect the isolated homesteads.
They are Energetic, intelligent, very active, agile, courageous and gritty. They are fearless for their purpose. They act immediately when commanded; very responsive to the master's voice. Adapting them almost at once to working commands around farm stock. Working characteristics include: strictly low heeling; and very free with the use of their teeth. They are also very watchful as guards of the home. English shepherds are companionable to their masters. Primarily they are stock dogs; the English Shepherds have also traditionally been used for hunting and as watch dogs in addition to being family pets. Recently there has been a growing interest in the English Shepherd as an athlete for competitive events such as agility, flyball and Frisbee. They are wonderful with children and not generally dog aggressive with other dogs. Generally friendly dogs, however they can be reserved with strangers. They make wonderful watch dogs, alerting the owner of approaching strangers.