Good Shepherd Farm English Shepherds

 We hope you've had a chance to view our other pages and have gained some insights into this wonderful breed.  We are always happy to "talk dogs" and help prospective buyers find the right pup for them, even if it isn't one of ours.  The English Shepherd is a true gem in the dog world; an "American original" that has retained it's traditional character despite generations of breeding.  Much of the credit, I believe, is due to those breeders who throughout the generations not only bred their dogs, but used them in the capacity for which they were bred; as all around farm helpers and stock dogs.    

Unfortunately, in this day of designer dogs, "beauty pageant" dog shows and internet advertising, the English Shepherd is at risk.  There is an increasing number of unethical breeders and puppy mills who have noticed this beautiful, intelligent dog and are breeding pups solely for profit.  When looking for a pup, please take responsibility for researching and asking questions of the breeders you seek to work with. 

The English Shepherd Club has developed a Code of Ethics which its breeders must agree to and sign in order to be listed with the club.  Even with this agreement, it is the responsibility of the buyer to make sure that the breeder does in fact adhere to its tenets.   Below are some tips for helping you choose a reputable breeder.

A Good Breeder: 

*realizes that there are no perfect dogs and is honest about the postitive and negative traits of his own dogs.

*breeds with the health and well being of his dogs in mind as well as the well being of the breed's genetic pool.  Avoid a breeder who repeatedly breeds their dog on every heat, or over uses their stud dog.

*performs relevant health tests/screens on their breeding animals and makes the results known. 

*seeks to find opportunities to test and evaluate their dogs' working character.

*is familiar with the lines they are working with and the traits within those lines.

*is invested in the pups they produce and offers ongoing help and support to their buyers. 

*places their pups with consideration to more than just sex, color or markings.  Beware of a breeder that will make placements at a very early age as the character of a pup can take up to 6 weeks or more to unfold.  

*asks questions of potential buyers to determine the best match between pup and person.

*does not let pups leave before the age of 7 or 8 weeks to ensure a good foundation of care and training. 

*makes socialization of pups a priority.  This is especially important for English Shepherds.

*will often also be involved in their breed's associations and rescue groups. 

Puppy Placements

We carefully match pups/owners to ensure the best placement.  To that end we request that interested parties fill out our Puppy Buyer Questionnaire.

All our pups are sold on contract.  This is done so that both breeder and buyer can be on the same page with their expectations.  Review the terms and if you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me.  If you are agreeable to the terms, then I can accept a deposit for a pup.  Signed contracts can be given to me with final payment before the pup leaves for it's new home.  

For more info or to find out about planned litters contact us.  You can find our contact info at the bottom of this page.