Introduction
The world owes a debt of gratitude to England for many things, including the works of William Shakespeare and the invention of fish and chips. Many of today’s most popular dog breeds may trace their ancestry back to England.
It is difficult to pinpoint the precise location of development for some dog breeds (like the Bloodhound) because their ancestry dates back such a long time. The origin of several breeds can be deduced from their name. The history of more recent breeds may be widely known, particularly if the breeder set out to develop the breed for a particular use or appearance.
Here are 36 dog breeds that may trace their ancestry back to England, from the huge Bullmastiff to the little Yorkshire Terrier.
Airedale Terriers
In the middle of the nineteenth century, the Airedale Terrier was developed in the Aire Valley of northern England, not far from the Scottish border, as a tool for rodent control. These huge English dog breeds are distinguished by their thick, wiry coats, tan with black patterns and jovial beards and mustaches.
The American Kennel Club has recognized them for their ability to perform in multiple roles, including that of a guard dog, family pet, and sports competitor. A pet Airedale would make a great addition to any household because of its courageous nature, high level of intelligence, and tolerance of young children.
Beagles
English hunters used large hounds to track down deer, while smaller hounds were used for flushing out rabbits. Beagles are canine descendants of these toy hounds. In the nineteenth century, the little hounds were bred for more than just their hunting abilities; their pleasant demeanor was also prized.
The American beagle was developed to hunt rabbits, but the English chose a larger type for fox hunting. Two distinct sizes are still widely accepted in the industry.
Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers served as ratters in the Northumberland mines during the nineteenth century.
Their distinctive puff of fur atop their noses and heads sets them apart, and their tightly curled coat comes in a range of colors from blue to brown to liver to sandy.
These terrier dog breeds are low-maintenance pets that also happen to be full of life, loyalty, and mischief.
Bloodhound
Since the Bloodhound was bred in England before 1300, the country has a good claim to it. There is some evidence in the literature to suggest that Belgian dogs were utilized in the creation of the breed, which could lend credence to the theory that the breed originated in Europe.
Although the Bloodhound was first bred for hunting deer and wild boar, its outstanding tracking skill was quickly recognized and used in the pursuit of humans, specifically criminals. Several packs of bloodhounds are being maintained in the UK for various hunting activities.
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Border Collie
The Border Collie is a breed of herding dog that originated in England through the crossing of ancient Roman dogs with Viking spitz-like dogs. These stunning canines can have either short, coarse silky coats or longer, feathery rough coats.
Many different hues are available, but the white and black varieties stand out the most. Borders are bright, active, and loving, but they may be apprehensive of strangers.
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Border Terriers
The Border Terrier was created near the border between Scotland and England to protect sheep and livestock from foxes. They have longer legs than other terriers and a short, wiry coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, including blue and tan, red, wheaten, and grizzle and tan.
Both children and other dogs get along great with them; however, they may try to catch and eat smaller animals. Dogs of the Border Collie breed are known for their cheerful disposition, high devotion, and boundless energy.
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Bullmastiff
Although smaller than the English Mastiff, the Bullmastiff can reach a maximum weight of 130 pounds and a height of approximately 27 inches. Also, the Bullmastiff was created by breeding Mastiffs and Bulldogs, as you could have imagined.
Though they may shrink a little, these dogs are just as strong as before and much faster and more nimble. These canines were developed to sneak up on and kill a poacher in the dead of night at an era when poaching was widespread.
Even yet, these mastiffs are extremely obedient and easy to teach. As if their survival depended on it, they would guard their boss and the “assets.” The Bullmastiff continues to be a top-tier security dog in the modern era.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
King Charles I and King Charles II, who ruled England in the 17th century, adored a particular breed of little black-and-tan spaniel. Even after being modified by breeding with small Asian dog breeds to give it a flatter face and domed skull, this spaniel remained a favorite of British nobility well into the 19th century.
Then, in the 1920s, breeders looked to paintings of the small spaniel in English manors to try to replicate the original version of the breed, and the Cavalier was born.
Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel is an easygoing and submissive dog breed. None of these characteristics is typical of a top-tier canine. Still, they’re a formidable opponent. Clumbers were the preferred hunting companions of English monarchs.
The timeline of the Clumber begins in the late 1700s in Nottinghamshire, England. The Duke put in a lot of time and energy to produce the perfect hunting partner for his estate, Clumber Park. It was in this region that they first became famous.
These spaniel breeds quickly gained popularity among bird hunters, particularly the British aristocracy. In the years following, several monarchs, including Edward VII, George V, and many others, relied on Clumber Spaniels as hunting companions.
The Clumber Spaniel, like most English dog breeds developed for affluent households, carries itself with an air of refined nobility and pride. While at home, though, they are just as funny and playful as their appearance would lead you to believe. On top of that, they may be quite obstinate.
Curly-Coated Retriever
It is believed that the Curly-Coated Retriever first appeared in England around the turn of the nineteenth century. Poodles and the now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel, among others, are likely to have had a role in its development. Black and liver are the two color options for the Curly-Coated Retriever (brown).
Although the breed is still employed in gundog trials and by select gamekeepers, its popularity as a gundog declined in the 20th century due to the increasing demand for Labrador Retrievers. Purposefully constructed for use in rescuing games from water, the tight, curly coat is waterproof and shakes dry fairly adequately. The British Kennel Club has designated it as a breed of great concern because of the plight of its native population.
English Bulldog
The history of bulldogs dates back to the 1300s in England. They were utilized in the brutal sport of bull baiting, in which a pack of dogs would attack a staked bull. Even though bulldogs were originally bred for bulldog combat, they were later employed in illegal dog fights after the sport was outlawed in the 1800s.
Other terrier breeds were used in the breeding process as well. Since then, breeders have improved the dog’s appearance, making it shorter and stockier while also giving it a flatter head and more wrinkles.
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English Cocker Spaniel
Like its close relative, the springer, the English Cocker Spaniel descended from a number of different Spanish dog breeds several hundred years ago. They’ve proven themselves time and time again to be trustworthy hunting companions that can assist with flushing, pointing, and recovering. All of it is taken care of by them!
Historically, there were two distinct kinds of spaniels: land spaniels and water spaniels. This breed of dog was dubbed the “cocking spaniel” because of its ability to flush smaller wildlife, such as woodcocks. The name was preserved even though modern hunters pursue a wider variety of games.
When compared to the springer, the Cocker Spaniel is a bit smaller at 15–17 inches in height. Their large, wide eyes and dangling ears cover their entire faces. And despite their delicate appearance, they are quite robust and strong.
Dogs of the English Cocker Spaniel variety are well-rounded creatures, capable of both high activity and calm reflection when the situation calls for it. When working, Cockers put in long hours and go the extra mile for their masters. But at home, they lavish one other with affection.
English Mastiff
Invading Roman, General Julius Caesar captured several of the island’s English mastiffs in 55 B.C. and brought them back to Rome. Mastiffs served the medieval English nobility well as both hunting companions and watchdogs.
Although modern mastiffs still look frightening, they are much less aggressive than their forefathers. Mastiffs are larger than Bullmastiffs and have thicker coats and wrinkled foreheads. As with any large dog, socialization and training should begin from a puppy’s first days.
English Pointer
It’s likely that the English Pointer has Spanish ancestry, and I’ve often wondered if the dog’s short, rather thin coat would be better suited to the warmer, drier environment of Spain than to that of the wet and often cold United Kingdom.
The Kennel Club’s description of the English Pointer as “obviously most at home on the moors, where he in his real element” made me laugh because I’ve known quite a few of these dogs. Most of the ones I’d met preferred to spend their time curled up in a ball on a soft bed, and they acted aghast when asked to venture out into the wet and muddy elements.
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English Setter
Around 400–500 years ago, English Setters were bred to excel as hunting dogs. A “Belton” pattern of spots distinguishes these animals’ coats.
As a result of their gentle nature and emotional intelligence, English Setters make fantastic pets and friends. Gentle, constructive training is the greatest way to meet their activity needs.
English Springer Spaniel
If there is a soul to the spaniel breed, it is the English Springer Spaniel. Effortful workers and devoted companions, these dogs are full of life and personality. Therefore, they are well-rounded canines that can both work and play vigorously.
Many decades ago, when the necessity arose, these spaniel dogs were bred specifically to flush and track game birds on the uplands. Since the earliest hunters only had access to bows, nets, and falcons, they began as generic helpers.
Although the invention of firearms ended the role of the Springer Spaniel as a hunting companion, the breed has maintained its popularity among hunters. However, they were used as eager gun dogs that helped hunters flush out birds from their nests. They were, needless to say, top-notch.
These days, Springers are known for being hardy dogs with an unquenchable need to work. These canines have a propensity for being extremely people-oriented and eager to please their masters. These sharp canine soldiers should learn quickly.
English Toy Terrier
Many other names have been used to refer to the English Toy Terrier over the years. The English Toy was created to be a little, cuddly pet. Historians attribute the breed’s diminutive size to the fact that it was mated with Italian Greyhounds.
The result is a smart and sassy little toy terrier with plenty of energy. Toy dogs are notoriously difficult to teach, yet despite their stubborn nature, they are surprisingly intelligent. They make great pets for those who live alone.
Field SpanielÂ
The Field Spaniel was originally bred for hunting in the 1800s before finding success on the dog show circuit. They have beautiful long, feathery ears and a long, silky coat in black or liver. Field spaniels are great family dogs since they are friendly, energetic, and calm with kids and other animals.
Flat-coated Retriever
Because of their versatility, the Flat-Coated Retriever can be used as a land or water retriever. Like other English retrievers, this dog is full of boundless energy and enthusiasm.
These dogs were developed in the middle of the nineteenth century, and their superior retrieving abilities quickly made them the most popular breed in Britain. For this reason, they were so widespread among English hunters that they earned the moniker “gamekeeper’s dog.”
Flat Coats have a strong work ethic but know how to take it easy and have fun with their human companions. Although these canines typically work long hours, they always have a positive outlook when they get home.
The Flat-Coated has a strong desire to interact with other creatures. The extent to which they retain their youthful appearance and vitality is why their owners call them “forever young” dogs. However, they do not develop rapidly and remain friendly and kissy-faced puppies. More importantly, they are friendly towards both human children and canine companions.
Fox Terrier
Fox terriers come in two distinct varieties—the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier—but they’re essentially the same dog. Fox hunting began with its use in the late 18th century and continued until it was outlawed in 2003.
They’re both around the size of a large dog, and while their coats may be various textures, they have the same basic hue (white, white and black, white and tan, and white black and tan). Dogs of this breed are intelligent, friendly, and assured, making them perfect for households.
Foxhound
As there were no Foxhound puppies registered with the kennel club in 2018, this breed is considered among the most endangered of the native English breeds. Despite their generous natures, they have traditionally been kept more as working dogs for hunting foxes than as pets. Maybe it’s because they have a bad rap for being too persistent and hardy.
There are still packs of Foxhounds preserved for hunting, despite the absence of registrations with the Kennel club. As of the Hunting Act of 2004, it is technically unlawful in the United Kingdom to use dogs to hunt wild animals; nevertheless, packs are allowed to pursue human runners who are setting trails.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed of dog in the United States and with good reason. It turns out, though, that they came from the United Kingdom. When hunting was at its peak in England, professionals required a hard worker with boundless energy and a strong swimmer.
The Golden Retriever was a fortunate match for the requirements. They have a strong build despite their slender appearance. They can swim and paddle through the dark waters thanks to their strong legs. The distinctive golden coat is also worn.
The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, is credited with creating this recognizable breed of English dog. Initially, he planned to raise a reliable gun dog that could easily traverse the grounds of his remote highland house. And finally, after many trials and errors, the Golden Retriever was born.
The Golden Retriever is an easygoing and devoted companion who is sometimes called “the happiest dog in the world.” These canines are full of love and kindness, greeting everyone they meet with a grin and a sloppy kiss.
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Greyhounds
The greyhound’s heritage can be traced back to ancient Egypt, but the breed’s modern form was established in medieval England. Greyhounds are the quickest dog breed, with speeds of almost 40 miles per hour.
This made them great not just as racing dogs but also as hunting dogs for pursuing rabbits and other fast-moving prey. As pets for modern homes, they are highly prized for their sweet nature, loyalty, and affection.
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Lakeland Terrier
One of the oldest terrier breeds in England, the Lakeland Terrier, was developed by farmers in the Lake District to guard their sheep against predators.
Another medium-sized terrier they have a double coat that is rough in texture and comes in a range of colors, although they don’t typically shed. Lakelands are strong, independent, and friendly dogs.
Lancashire Heelers
The Lancashire Heeler is a pastoral breed that was nearly extinct before breeders, and judges like Jean Lanning began working to revive the breed in the 1980s. Although their numbers have increased, notably in Lancashire, where they originated, they are still considered a threatened native breed.
Like the corgi, they were initially bred to herd cattle and nipped at their heels to get them moving. They’re also quite tough and resilient.
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Manchester Terrier
In the middle of the nineteenth century, Manchester, England, became known for developing the Manchester Terrier breed. It is available in both Standard and Toy sizes and was bred to hunt rodents.
Invigorated by competition, they combine speed and intelligence. It’s possible they’d have a good time participating in dog sports like agility and flyball.
Norfolk Terrier and Norwich Terrier
Norfolk and Norwich terriers can trace their ancestry back to Norwich, the county town of Norfolk in eastern England. At first, they were sturdy farm terriers employed for rodent control.
Norwich Terriers’ ears are pricked (like the spire of Norwich church), while Norfolk Terriers’ ears are only partially upright and look noticeably floppy. Since they were only artificially separated into two breeds in 1964, they share many characteristics other than ear carriage.
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Old English Sheepdog
The West of England was possibly the birthplace of the Old English Sheepdog in the 1700s. Originally, they worked as drover dogs, transporting livestock from one location to another.
It’s easy to fall in love with an Old English Sheepdog—they’re energetic, social, and full of character. Their signature shaggy coats can be kept in good condition with consistent maintenance.
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Otterhound
In medieval England, this obscure breed was intended to combat otters’ predation on fish in stocked ponds and rivers. Since the Otterhound was so effective at its task, the practice of hunting otters was eventually banned since their numbers had dwindled to the point of extinction.
This is why Otterhounds aren’t bred as frequently as other hunting dogs. Otterhounds excel in the water due to their webbed feet, acute sense of scent, and strong smell.
Parson Russell Terrier (Jack Russell)
The Jack Russell terrier is a descendant of fox terriers and other small to medium-terrier breeds and was developed by Reverend John Russell in the early 1800s for hunting foxes.
It’s a smart, energetic, and occasionally boisterous breed that needs daily exercise and mental and physical stimulation to avoid becoming a nuisance because of excessive barking or other bad behavior. Jack Russells are known for their warmth and patience with kids.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are currently among the most popular breeds of dogs due to their endearing combination of a large body, small legs, and cheerful faces. While they originate in Wales, these dogs have an unrivaled history and reputation in England.
Pembroke Corgis may be little, but they were originally developed for herding cattle. They can avoid potentially fatal kicks from agitated cattle thanks to their low body position. These dogs’ assertive natures make them ideal service animals.
Despite their adorable appearance, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known to be independent and headstrong. On the plus side, they are incredibly brilliant dogs that take to obedience training with great enthusiasm.
Corgis have a powerful bark that should not be disregarded. Added to the fact that they are constantly on the lookout, this makes them excellent guard dogs. On the other hand, make sure they are a part of all the family does so they can flourish.
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Staffordshire Bull Terriers
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or Staffie for short, is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United Kingdom. As a result, they are the dog breed most often housed in shelters for unwanted pets.
Dog fighting was popular and lawful in the 17th century, and the Staffie’s ancestors, the bull terriers, were bred specifically for this purpose.
After dog fighting was outlawed in 1835, breeders in the English county of Staffordshire were committed to keeping the breed alive for exhibition and companionship. And so the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was born.
The breed has a long history of pleasing people and is one of the few to have a good temperament around kids included as a need in the breed standard. Besides solid colors, the breed can also have white fur with varying amounts of color patches.
Sussex Spaniel
Sussex Spaniels were bred in the 1700s in the County of Sussex as short but stout hunting dogs, well adapted to the rough terrain there. Although a member of the spaniel family, the Sussex is not as common as other breed types.
As a slow-growing breed, they shouldn’t be overworked when young. Sussex Spaniels demand a patient trainer due to their independent nature.
Whippet
Coal miners in England in the 1800s were interested in outdoor activities like hunting and dog racing. Unfortunately, the cost of maintaining a large dog like a greyhound was beyond their means. So, they developed a smaller dog that was just as agile and deadly in the field.
Breeding greyhounds and small, fast terriers probably created the quick little whippet. The current iteration retains its blazing speed and intense hunger for hunting.
Yorkshire terrier
The origins of the Yorkshire terrier can be traced back to the 1800s in the English counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire. It is hypothesized to be a cross between the Skye terrier and the Dandie Dinmont terrier, both of which originated in Scotland.
There could even be some Maltese in there! Historically, Yorkshire Terriers were employed to kill rodents in industrial settings like textile mills and coal mines. However, they also swiftly became lapdogs of choice among the wealthy.
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In the End
Tell me which English dog breed you find most charming and why. Comment down below and tell us! Are there any that should be here but aren’t?
