Welcome to our blog post titled “12 Dog Breeds from Great Britain,” where we will explore the rich history and diverse range of English dog breeds. From ancient breeds that date back to the Middle Ages to more recent additions from the Industrial Revolution, these dogs have played significant roles as loyal family pets, guard dogs, and trusted companions. Many English breeds have even found favor with the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth herself. With the establishment of the Kennel Club in the late 1800s, dog ownership became more popular among families, and these English breeds quickly became loved family members. Known for their loyalty and love for human company, they are perfect pet dogs for those seeking a devoted and affectionate companion. Here are 12 distinct English dog breeds that have left an indelible mark on canine history.
Which British dog breed is best suited for families with children?
The cocker spaniel is a British dog breed that is known for its friendly and gentle nature, making it well-suited for families with children. They are great with kids, playful, and easy to train, making them an ideal choice for a family dog.
1. Border Collie
The Border Collie is a medium to large-sized dog breed that originated in the England/Scotland border region. They are known for their high energy, intelligence, and trainability. They typically weigh between 30 and 55 pounds and stand about 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a thick, double coat that can come in a variety of colors such as black and white, sable, and red. They were originally bred for herding sheep and cattle, but today they are known for being highly trainable and excelling in a variety of activities such as obedience, agility, and flyball. They are also known for their strong herding instincts and require regular mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Border Collie’s are highly affectionate and loyal to their owners, but can be reserved or aloof with strangers.
2. Bulldog
The Bulldog, also known as the English Bulldog, is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in England. They are known for their distinctive wrinkled face, sturdy, compact build, and pushed-in nose. They typically weigh between 40 and 50 pounds and stand about 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors such as white, fawn and brindle. Bulldogs were originally bred for bull baiting, but today they are known for being great companion dogs with calm and relaxed personalities. They are not as energetic as other breeds and are content with a moderate amount of exercise. They are also great with children and very affectionate with their owners. Bulldogs are prone to certain health issues, such as breathing problems, due to their short muzzle and pushed-in nose, so proper care and attention is necessary to keep them healthy.
3. English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in England. They are known for their friendly, outgoing and energetic personalities. They typically weigh between 40 and 55 pounds and stand about 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a medium-length, wavy coat that can come in a variety of colors such as black and white, liver and white, and black and white with tan points. They were originally bred for hunting and flushing out game birds such as quail and grouse, but today are known for being great family pets and are also used as service and therapy dogs. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions, and are renowned for their strong retrieving instincts. They are very affectionate and loyal to their owners and can be quite vocal. They require regular exercise and activities to stay happy and healthy.
4. English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a large, athletic dog breed that originated in England. They are part of the Foxhound family of breeds, which were developed to hunt foxes. They typically weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and stand about 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a short, hard coat that comes in a variety of colors, such as black, white, and tan. They are known for their endurance, strength, and speed, which makes them ideal for hunting and field trials. They are also known for their sweet and friendly temperament, which makes them great family pets. They are not as commonly kept as household pets as compared to other breeds, but they have a great sense of smell and can be used in hunting and tracking activities. They can be stubborn at times, so early training and socialization is important.
5. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a large dog breed that originated in England/Scotland in the 19th century. They are known for their friendly, outgoing and kind nature. They are medium to large in size and typically weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. They stand about 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a thick, wavy coat that is usually a rich golden color, hence the name. They were originally bred for hunting and retrieving game such as waterfowl, but today they are known for being great family pets and are also used as therapy and service dogs. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions, they are also known for their ability to learn quickly and their eagerness to please, which makes them a popular choice for many dog owners.
6. Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in England in the 19th century. They have a distinct, egg-shaped head and a strong, muscular body. They typically weigh between 35 and 70 pounds and stand about 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. They come in two varieties, the standard and the miniature. The standard variety is the larger of the two and the miniature variety stands up to 14 inches at the shoulder. They were originally bred for bull baiting and dog fighting, but today they are known as playful and affectionate pets. They are known for being highly trainable and are often used in obedience and agility competitions.
7. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, also known as the Yorkie, is a small dog breed that originated in the Yorkshire, England. They typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds and have a compact, muscular body. Their coat is long, silky and typically steel blue and tan in color. They are a popular companion dog breed due to their small size and affectionate nature. They were originally bred to catch rats and other small vermin in textile mills and coal mines, but have since become popular as a lap dog and show dog.
8. Beagle
The Beagle is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originated in England. They were originally bred for hunting small game such as hares, and are known for their keen sense of smell and energy. They are a small breed, with males standing at 13-15 inches tall and weighing between 20-30 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, standing at 13-15 inches tall and weighing between 20-25 pounds. They have a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors such as tri-color, lemon, and red and white. Beagles are known for being friendly and outgoing, making them great family pets. They are also known for being curious and independent, and have a strong desire to follow their nose. They are highly trainable, but can be stubborn if not properly trained and socialized. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They are well known for their distinctive vocalizations, the Beagle has a baying bark that is unique to the breed.
9. Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is a small breed that was originally bred to hunt foxes in their burrows. They are named after the border country between England and Scotland, an area of land where they were mainly used for hunting. The Border Terrier is a small breed of dog that originated in the border region between England and Scotland. They were originally bred to assist farmers in tasks such as herding and hunting small game. They are a compact and sturdy breed, with males standing at 11-12 inches tall and weighing between 11-15 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, standing at 10-11 inches tall and weighing between 11-14 pounds. They have a thick, wiry coat that comes in a variety of colors such as red, blue, wheaten, and grizzle. The Border Terrier is known for being a lively and energetic breed with a strong prey drive, making them great for hunting and agility. They are also known for being affectionate and good-natured, making them great family pets. They are quite independent and stubborn, but with proper training and socialization, they are highly trainable. They are generally adaptable and can live in both rural and urban environments.
10. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, also known as the “Staffie” is a medium-sized breed of dog that originated in England in the early 19th century. They were originally bred for blood sports and bull baiting, and later for dog fighting, but today they are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They are a sturdy and muscular breed, with males standing at 14-16 inches tall and weighing between 24-38 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, standing at 13-15 inches tall and weighing between 22-36 pounds. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors such as blue, black, brindle, red, fawn and white. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is known for being an energetic and playful breed, but can also be stubborn if not properly trained and socialized. They are generally good with children and other pets if they are raised with them and have proper socialization. They have a strong desire to please their owners and can excel in obedience and agility training.
11. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small and energetic breed of dog that originated in England in the 19th century. They were originally bred for fox hunting and are known for their intelligence, energy, and tenacity. They are a small breed, with males standing at 10-15 inches tall and weighing between 13-17 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, standing at 9-15 inches tall and weighing between 11-16 pounds. They have a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors such as white, black, brown or a combination of these colors. They are known for being lively, playful and affectionate, making them great companions for active families. They are highly trainable, but can be stubborn if not properly trained and socialized. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
12. Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a beloved dog breed with a rich history and a wide range of uses. Originating from Great Britain, this breed was initially developed for hunting purposes, specifically for flushing out game birds. Its name comes from its ability to flush woodcock birds from their hiding places. Over time, the Cocker Spaniel’s friendly and affectionate nature also made it a popular choice as a family pet. The breed has two distinct varieties: the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel. While both share similar traits, there are some differences in appearance and temperament between the two. The American Cocker Spaniel is typically smaller and has a more luxurious coat, while the English Cocker Spaniel is slightly larger and has a more moderate coat. In addition to being excellent hunting companions and family pets, Cocker Spaniels have excelled in other areas as well. They have been successful in various dog sports such as obedience, agility, and tracking. Their intelligence, trainability, and eagerness to please make them versatile performers in these competitions.
British Dog Breeds – Final Thoughts
Great Britain is home to a wide variety of dog breeds that have captured the hearts of dog lovers around the world. From the iconic and regal English Bulldog to the energetic and loyal Border Collie, these breeds showcase the rich history and diversity of British canine companions. Whether you are seeking a loving family pet, a reliable working partner, or a stunning show dog, there is a breed from Great Britain that is sure to fit your lifestyle and preferences.
