England is most widely known as the land of afternoon tea and Shakespeare. But did you know that it's also responsible for over 30 British dog breeds, these breeds includes some of the most famous ones of the planets. Including the Queen's favorite Corgis and the highly intelligent Border Collie. We've picked out 10 of the Top English Dog Breeds including some which may surprise you here we go.
Airedale Terrier Dog :
Hailed as the king of terriers the Airedale Terrier originated in Arendall in York Shire and is the largest Terrier. Breed bred to catch otters and rats this British dog breed is incredibly intelligent making it excellent at agility and obedience competitions. Airedale Terriers also make perfect family dogs as they usually gunwale with children and are known to possess a playful popular temperament even when they get older (1).
Clumber Spaniel Dog :
The Clumber Spaniel originally got its name from the Duke of Newcastle as was named after his residents clever park. They are the largest of all the spangle breeds and are known for their excellent hunting skills and according to history they were once renowned throughout England for their success. And were highly sought after by aristocrats this English dog breed is a great family pet because of their loyal and loving natures (2).
Beagle Dog :
Beagles are one of the most popular dog breeds throughout the world with their big affectionate eyes and happy disposition. It's easy to see why this British dog breed has captured the hearts of so many households but did you know there are also fantastic working dogs. Their noses have around 220 million scent receptors which makes them extremely good at picking up sense. Their super-powered nose paired with their friendly faces has earned the positions at airports working with security as they can accurately sniff out any contraband (3).
Shetland Sheepdog :
Hailing from the Shetland Islands in Scotland the Shetland Sheepdog was bred as a herding dog and to protect farmers land against birds and other probable threats also known as Shelties. They're one of the smartest dog breeds and excel at obedience and agility compositions due to their eagerness to learn and high intelligence. Shelties also possess a strong herding instinct and have been known to try to hurt squirrels and rabbits went out on their daily walks and in some cases they may even attempt to gently hurt children (4).
Corgi Dog :
Perhaps one of the most British dog breeds of all time the Corgi is world-renowned for being the Queen's favorite canine companion. Yet despite their royal reputation and small size they were actually initially bred to herd cattle sheep and even horses. Originating in Pembrokeshire in wales the breeds routes are steeped in magic and enchantments as they were believed to come from the lands of fairies and elves with their adorable pointed elf-like ears. Diminutive stature and murky history it's easy to see where the fairy tale came from (5).
Also Read This : All Dog Breeds - Names and Pictures | Complete List of Dog Profiles
Bedlington Terrier Dog :
The Bedlington Terrier is thought to have come from gypsies who used the breed for poaching on English estates. Due to their success at hunting nobles who noticed them and eventually adopted them as their own hunting dogs. Additionally they were excellent at catching vermin which made them popular for factory and mine workers. Today this English dog breed makes for a very friendly member of the family and is known for its loving nature (6).
Manchester Terrier Dog :
Dating back to the early 16th century the Manchester Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds, known as the gentleman's terrier in Victorian England. The British dog breed is thought to be a cross between a whippet and a black and tan terrier and was purposefully bred for rat killing. Many people think that they look like a miniature Doberman but this is actually because the Manchester Terrier was one of the original breeds used to create the Doberman (7).
Border Collie Dog :
The Border Collie is one of the most hardworking dogs of all. Originally bred as a herding dog and the Scottish and English border lands to the name the British dog great still continues to be used today on farms across the globe. Border Collies are workaholics in every sense of the word and are always happiest when they're active. Because of this they're not suitable for families looking for a laid-back dog breed, as they may fall into destructive habits when they're not physically and mentally challenged (8).
English Cocker Spaniel Dog :
Up until 1870 the English Cocker Spaniel was classed as the same breed as the English Springer Spaniel. However people eventually recognized the differences in appearance which spurred the separation of the two breeds. The word cocker comes from Woodcock the birth of this British dog breed was purposely bred to hunt. In the present day they're extremely gentle nature and people-oriented personalities make them a popular pet for families (9).
Jack Russell Terrier Dog :
The Jack Russell Terrier breed is most widely known for their quick and smart personalities. Combined with their high prey Drive they were originally bred for the purpose of fox hunting around 200 years ago. But are not popular with farmers as there are also excellent ratters, their high intelligence makes them easy to train but be prepared to dedicate a lot of time to it (10).
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