England is one of the most historic and ancient countries in the modern world. They’re known for London tea, fish & chips, the Big Ben and of course, The Beatles. But did you know England is also home to some of the world’s most unique and popular English dog breeds as well?
Although the first domesticated dog is believed to have been in 10,000 BC (originating in China), England is not far behind in this practice. In fact, the oldest (recorded) English dog is the Star Carr Yorkshire, who lived in England during 7538 BC.
England has a long and colorful history of breeding dogs. It’s why so many of the most well-known dogs today actually originated out of, or was derived from an English dog breed. That being said, let’s examine 28 popular and unique dog breeds from England.
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English Retriever Dogs
Retriever dogs have a simple yet necessary job. That is, they retrieve the hunter’s shot game from the wetlands and marshes. In many cases, a hunter cannot easily get to the game without a boat. So, the following dogs’ job was born.
In the past, hunting was a big sport in England (and still a year-round sport today). As a result, some of the most popular dog breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, were born out of necessity.
English dog breeds that were purposely-bred for retrieving include just three dogs: the Golden Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever and the Curly-Coated Retriever.
1. Golden Retriever
Highlights: Friendly, Loyal, Smart
The Golden Retriever is a wonderful family dog that’s the second most popular dog breed in the USA. But, they actually originated from England. During the hay day of hunting in England, hunters needed a tireless worker that’s high energy and a superb swimmer.
Fortunately, the Golden Retriever fit the bill. They’re a muscular dogs with a lean frame. They have a powerful set of legs to keep them afloat and paddling through the murky waters. And of course, they sport the signature golden coat.
This iconic English dog was developed by Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord Tweedmouth. He first set his sights on breeding an effective gun dog capable of navigating the terrain of his highland estate. And through many iterations, the Golden Retriever was born.
Often described as the happiest dog in the world, the Golden Retriever is a friendly and kind companion that’s highly adaptable and loving. There’s not a single aggressive bone in these dogs, as they tend to greet everyone with smiles and kisses.
- Golden Retrievers were developed by crossbreeding a yellow retriever with the Tweed Water Spaniel, Irish Setter and Bloodhound.
- The Golden Retriever matures slower than other dogs, which explains their playfulness well into adulthood.
- As retriever dogs, they’re known for their soft mouths. They’re able to retrieve ducks without damaging the animal.
2. Flat-Coated Retriever
Highlights: Cheerful, Positive, Good-natured
The Flat-Coated Retriever has the ability to retrieve on both land and water, making them a special dual purpose retrieving dog. And like the other English retrievers, this dog is always bursting with energy and excitement.
These dogs were bred in the mid 1800s and shortly after, became Britain’s most popular retrieving dog due to their top skills. In fact, they were nicknamed the “gamekeeper’s dog” since they were so common in the English hunting community!
Though hard workers with a strong work ethic, Flat Coats know how to slow down and enjoy their time with the humans. They may work long hours, but come back with their cheerful and optimistic attitude often seen in these dogs.
The Flat-Coated loves to play with others. So much so, that owners describe them as “forever young” dogs. But the fact is, they mature slowly and are always wagging their tails and giving kisses. Plus, they play well with kids and other dogs.
- The Flat-Coated Retriever was bred using the famous Labrador Retriever.
- During the two world wars, the Golden and Labrador Retriever almost completely replaced the Flat-Coated and put them into extinction.
- They were called the “gamekeeper’s dog” because they were so widely used on English estates for hunting and sport.
3. Curly-Coated Retriever
Highlights: Confident, Intelligent, Noble
As one of the oldest retriever dog, the Curly Coated Retriever is essentially a Golden Retriever with the coat of a Poodle. With their impressive swimming instincts, they’re one of the best water retrievers that England has to offer.
These English dogs tend to sport either a black or liver colored coat. And while the coat may look a bit odd, it’s meant to protect them in bad weather conditions and in freezing-cold lakes. They’re hefty dogs that are more durable than they look.
Curly-Coateds may look like hard working dogs – and they are. However, they have a gentle and a loving side to them too. In the home, these dogs are playful and fun-loving with the people they know, but can be aloof with strangers.
They can be as affectionate and endearing as the Labrador or Golden Retriever, but they’re often a little more independent. Even so, this doesn’t mean they’re difficult to train. In fact, they’re super smart dogs that respond well to obedience.
- The Curly-Coated Retriever is believed to be the oldest of all retriever-type dogs.
- These dogs likely descended from the English Water Spaniel, Retrieving Setter and the Irish Water Spaniel.
- Despite being curly-coated, these English dogs have straight hair on their faces.
English Gun Dogs
Gun dogs are much like retrievers. However, they do more than just retrieving. These type of gun dog breeds can also flush out game and point (or track) game. And just like with retriever dogs, England is home to some of the most famous gun dogs.
English dog breeds developed for hunting and pointing include: the English Springer Spaniel, English Cocker Spaniel, English Pointer and the Clumber Spaniel.
4. English Springer Spaniel
Highlights: Loving, Trainable, Fun-loving
The English Springer Spaniel is the embodiment of the spaniel-type spirit. They are full of energy, hard working and affectionate dogs. As such, they’re a balanced dog that knows how to play hard and work even harder.
These spaniel dogs were first developed many centuries ago when flushing and tracking game birds in the uplands was needed. In the beginning, they worked as generic helpers since hunters only had bows, nets and falcons to work with.
When guns were invented, Springer Spaniels continued the tradition of working alongside hunters. But they worked as eager gun dogs that helped flush out birds from their nests, so hunters could take them down. Needless to say, they were the best.
Today, the modern Springer is a tough and durable dog with an insatiable appetite for work. They tend to be people-oriented dogs that will take every opportunity to please their owners. Training will be no problem for these intelligent gun dogs.
- Springer Spaniels are named after their hunting technique, in which they would “spring” towards the game.
- American president George H.W. Bush had a Springer Spaniel named Millie.
- At one point, the Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel were classified as one breed.
5. English Cocker Spaniel
Highlights: Lively, Cheerful, Obedient
Like the cousin Springer, the English Cocker Spaniel was bred centuries ago from various dog breeds of Spain. They have earned the reputation as reliable hunting companions that could help with flushing, pointing, and retrieving. They do it all!
In the past, spaniels were divided into two types: land spaniels and water spaniels. Because this dog flushed smaller game, such as woodcocks, they were known as the “cocking spaniel.” And although they hunt all types of game today, the name was kept.
The Cocker Spaniel is slightly smaller than the springer, standing at 15 to 17 inches tall. They have a contoured head with big round eyes and long-hanging ears that engulfs their face. And while they may seem fragile, they’re sturdy and strong.
English Cocker Spaniels are balanced dogs that know when to turn on their energy and when to mellow out. On the field, Cockers are tireless workers that will go above and beyond to please their hunters. But in the home, they’ll shower their love.
- Historians believe the Cocker Spaniel came to America (New England) on the Mayflower in 1620.
- Weighing just 30 pounds, the Cocker Spaniel is the smallest dog in the sporting breed category.
- The Cocker Spaniel specialized in hunting woodcocks, which is how they got their names.
6. English Pointer
Highlights: Devoted, Balanced, Diligent
As you may have guessed from the name, the “point” of the English Pointer is to, well, point. That is, they will track down birds and point to them with their snout to signal to the hunter where the birds are. After locating the birds, hounds will chase them down.
These dogs aren’t new. They’ve been pointing for several centuries. And as the modernization of hunting occurred, Pointers evolved with them to be one of the top gun dogs in the world. What’s more, they are serviceable retrievers as well!
Developed in the past for the aristocrats of the sporting world, Pointers tend to carry themselves with a sense of nobility. They’re highly capable hunting dogs and they know it too. With their agility, speed and instincts, few birds can get past a Pointer.
However, these dogs aren’t all about work and hunting. When in the home, they’re even-tempered dogs that are amiable, kind and affectionate. They’re loyal to their pack and enjoy playing with the owners just as much as a good hunt.
- Pointers get their name from their unique way of tracking game. When spotted, they’ll use their snouts to point in the direction.
- Despite being an English dog breed, Pointers actually originated from their cousins – the Spanish Pointer.
- Early paintings of Pointers can be found on 3,000 year old Egyptian tombs.
7. Clumber Spaniel
Highlights: Calm, Amusing, Chivalrous
The Clumber Spaniel is calm, docile and mellow. All of which, are traits you would least expect from a top gun dog. However, they are one of the best in the game. As for hunting companions, Clumbers were top choices among kings of England.
The history of the Clumber starts in the late 1700s in Nottinghamshire of England. The Duke spent a great deal of effort into breeding the ideal hunting companion for his estate, called the Clumber Park. This is where they earned their name.
Quickly, these spaniels became a favorite among bird hunters, especially with the British royals. And from there on, Clumber Spaniels had served as hunting companions for King Edward VII, George V and many other royals down the line.
Like most English dog breeds that were bred for the elite, the Clumber Spaniel retains a graceful, noble and proud attitude. But as their goofy appearance suggests, they are mischievous and playful when in the home. Plus, they can be stubborn too.
- The history of Clumber Spaniels is unclear. One theory suggests they were smuggled from France into England during the French Revolution.
- Their name comes from the English estate they frequently hunted in, called Clumber Park.
- Most historians believe the Clumber Spaniels are the result of crossbreeding the Basset Hound with the Alpine Spaniel.
English Herding Dogs
Herding became an essential part of farms with livestock in the rural regions of England. So, it made a lot of sense that some of the world’s best herding dogs originated from the country, including the renowned Border Collie.
Herding dog breeds developed in England include just 4 breeds: the Lancashire Heeler, Welsh Corgi, Border Collie, and the Old English Sheepdog.
8. Lancashire Heeler
Highlights: Loving, Active, Intelligent
The Lancashire Heeler may be a small dog, but they’re tenacious herders with a spirited attitude on the field. What makes the Lancashire unique is their versatility. Not only are they great cattle herders, but also top ratters and rabbit hunters.
These dogs pack a lot of power into a fun-sized bite. They’re energetic workers, combined with their tireless work ethics and terrier instincts. And although they were prominent cattle herders, these dogs typically are companion dogs today.
There’s never a dull moment with the Lancashire Heeler. The high energy excitement is contagious and their eagerness to work and please is endearing. They love to play with their owners and won’t mind taking multiple walks a day.
Lancashires are also wicked smart. Combine this with their eagerness to learn and you have one of the most trainable dog breeds England has to offer. Daily obedience training is the best way to take care of their mental stimulation needs.
- The Lancashire was classified as an endangered breed in 2003 because of the decreasing number of dogs and small gene pool.
- These dogs can draw back their lips to smile like a human. We call this the “heeler smile.”
- Historians believed these dogs are the result of crossbreeding Welsh Corgis with Manchester Terriers.
9. Border Collie
Highlights: Smart, Active, Hard-working
Border Collies may be the most famous (and skilled) herding dogs in the world. And, why wouldn’t they be? These collies are clever and extremely intelligent dogs. In addition, they love to work and will often work for the sake of working.
The beginnings of the Border Collie can be traced back to the Roman Empire. When the empire fell, the vikings took their shot at invading Britain. They were often accompanied by small and agile spitz-type dogs that could herd and work.
It’s believed that these viking dogs were the original ancestors of the Border Collie. If you’ve ever seen a Border Collie in action, you’d probably notice the extreme focus and determination when they’re on the field. Plus, they don’t seem to get tired!
The Border Collie’s work ethic makes them the most trainable dogs in the world. In fact, they’re the most intelligent dog breed in terms of obedience and working IQ. However, they do require plenty of mental stimulation and exercise daily.
- The Border Collie is the smartest dog breed when it comes to obedience and work intelligence.
- A Border Collie named Chaser is regarded as the most intelligent dog. He can recognize 1,000 objects.
- Jumpy the Border Collie holds the world record for dog skateboarding, going 100 meters in just 20 seconds.
10. Old English Sheepdog
Highlights: Adaptable, Docile, Intelligent
Perhaps the most iconic dog breed from England, the Old English Sheepdogs have a reputation for being gentle, smart and agreeable. The long profuse double coat with shaggy fur over the head is the iconic and signature look with the OES.
The OES is technically an English dog. However, England cannot take all the credit for these dogs. In fact, historians believe that there may be some Russian or Scotch in these dogs. And while they may be called sheepdogs, they were actually herding or drover dogs.
For the most part, the OES is an easy-going and laid-back dog. They’re very affectionate dogs who get along well with all members of the family. Plus, the OES can also be very playful, often taking up to three years to fully mature.
But don’t be fooled by their goofy looks – these dogs are herding dogs, after all. In other words, they’ll be very energetic and active, demanding a decent amount of physical and mental exercises. They are also sneaky athletic and agile too.
- A nickname for the OES is the “bobtail,” despite having a tail.
- When the OES came to America, the dog was for the ultra-wealthy. In fact, 5 of the 10 richest American families owned one.
- Although they’re called “old,” they’re a relatively new breed. The OES was first developed in 1904.
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Highlights: Loving, Alert, Intelligent
Known for their long bodies, short legs and bright smiles, the Pembroke Welsh Corgis are some of the most popular dogs today. Though they’re technically from Wales, the tradition and reputation of these dogs in England is unparalleled.
Despite their short stature, Pembroke Corgis were actually bred for herding cattle. Because they are so low to the ground, they’re able to effectively dodge lethal kicks from agitated cattle. Given their pushy personalities, these dogs were made for the job.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis may look cute and cuddly, but they’re stubborn dogs that tend to go on the occasional independent streaks. But on the bright side, they’re extremely smart dogs that respond very well to obedience training.
The bark of the Corgi is something that is not to be underestimated. Combine this with their always alert nature and they make some of the finest watch dogs. However, make sure to include them in all family activities for them to thrive.
- According to ancient folklore, the Corgis were enchanted dogs that fairies rode into battle.
- The word “corgi” actually means “dwarf dog” in Welsh.
- The Cardigan Welsh Corgi was the original Corgi. They were first brought to Cardiganshire by the Celts tribe.
English Hounds
Hound dogs serve a very important role for hunters. Often equipped with an incredible nose, hounds will find and track game, thus saving the hunter many hours of locating game. And given how popular hunting was in England, hounds were crucial dogs to society.
The Bloodhound, Greyhound, Beagle, Whippet, and the Otterhound make up the hound group for dogs that were developed in England.
12. Bloodhound
Highlights: Loving, Independent, Curious
Historians know very little about the true origins of the Bloodhound. However, we do know that they are one of the oldest breeds, being traced back to around a thousands years ago. Back then, these dogs rode with prominent princes.
In the last few centuries, Bloodhounds have earned the reputation as the best people-tracking dogs. And even today, police departments and search & rescue groups deploy these dogs for all types of tracking and rescuing work. They’re simply the best.
Their ability to quickly track people down even with a cold trail is largely due to the Bloodhound’s sharp and incredible noses. That said, a Bloodhound is said to have roughly 230 million scent receptors at a given time – the most among all breeds.
But when the Bloodhound isn’t working, they are friendly and affectionate dogs. And while they may be stubborn and “slow at learning,” we think this is just due to their inquisitive nature. With all the scents they smell, it’s easy to get distracted!
- The Bloodhound can still follow a 300-hour scent trail, that is, with the source leaving the area 12 days ago.
- Bloodhounds have the best noses in the canine kingdom. It’s believed they have 200 to 300 million scent receptors.
- Their noses are so reliable that their findings and “testimony” are considered admissible in a US court of law.
13. Greyhound
Highlights: Docile, Agile, Noble
Greyhounds have earned a reputation as the fastest dog breed on earth. When a long enough stretch of flat land, these dogs use their long legs and lean frames to reach speeds upwards of 40 miles per hour. Few animals are faster than a Greyhound.
But while the Greyhound was standardized in Great Britain, the origins of these dogs can be traced back to Egypt roughly 5,000 years ago. In fact, the dogs that ran with Egyptian pharaohs were very much like these Greyhounds.
When you examine the Greyhound, you can tell they were built for speed. Everything from the shock-absorbing feet pads to the aerodynamic frame and skull, these dogs are ideal for high-speed chases. They’re unlike any other hound breed.
What’s more, Greyhounds have a wonderful and pleasant temperament. They’re always friendly and calm with very little aggressive tendencies. However, this doesn’t mean they’re friendly to everyone. In fact, they are often aloof with strangers.
- The Greyhound is the fastest dog breed in the world, capable of running up to 40 miles per hour.
- Greyhounds are ancient dogs. In fact, they are the only dog breed explicitly mentioned in the Bible.
- These dogs have a 270-degree field of vision, meaning they can see objects behind them.
14. Beagle
Highlights: Cheerful, Inquisitive, Affectionate
Known for their sharp noses and mild temperaments, Beagles have become one of the most iconic dog breeds to originate from England. Not only do they make perfect search & rescue dogs, but also thrive in a family-oriented situation.
These dogs have been small game hunters for centuries. In fact, the early ancestors of the Beagles first arrived in England long before the Roman Empire. And in the 1500s, these dogs were converted to hunt and track all types of game, including deer.
For the most part, Beagles are easy-going and laid back dogs. They’re famously known for being an even-tempered dog. Beagles are not too friendly, but not too aloof. They’re also people pleasing, but not overly eager.
The Beagle is always cheerful, positive and friendly. They can get along with all types of people, such as seniors and children. And because they are pack dogs, they tend to play well with other dogs and even cats in the family.
- Beagles use their long hanging ears to “sweep” scents to their nose for more effective tracking.
- Their noses are so incredible that a Beagle named Elvis is capable of smelling pregnancy in women.
- The white-tipped tail of the Beagle was bred into them so hunters could find them while tracking in the woods.
15. Whippet
Highlights: Affectionate, Calm, Fun-loving
Often called the “poor man’s racehorse,” the Whippet is an amazing sprinter and athlete. In fact, the Whippets are very much like the Greyhounds, though a bit shorter and slimmer. And when assigned a task to chase, there’s no stopping them.
The Whippets’ origin is linked with Victorian England in the mid 1800s. Back then, coal miners spent a lot of their free time racing dogs and hunting hare. However, members of the working class couldn’t afford to provide a Greyhound adequate exercise or space.
For this reason, the smaller and more convenient Whippet was born. Not only were they quick dogs, but also were much more cost effective. Furthermore, these dogs can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, which is nothing to scoff at.
Because of their origins, Whippets are much more adaptable. Not only do they thrive in an open yard but can also do well in an apartment (with proper exercise). When they’re not working, they love to sit back and relax with their loved ones.
- The Whippet is a fast dog, capable of reaching speeds up to 35 miles per hour.
- Whippets are known to suffer from separation anxiety. Busy owners should not own a Whippet.
- They are quiet dogs that rarely bark, though they still make great watchdogs.
16. Otterhound
Highlights: Lively, Friendly, Even-tempered
The Otterhound, as their name suggests, is an English dog breed developed to hunt otter. There are no other hounds in the canine kingdom like them, as they’re the only dogs developed to hunt these aquatic animals. It’s why they’re so unique.
The birth of the Otterhound takes place in medieval England, when the over-population of otters in the rivers and lakes became a threat to fishermen. After all, fish was the most valuable source of food in the country at the time.
This was when the Otterhound made its name. They were carefully bred to have webbed feet, a powerful shoulder, waterproof coat and a tireless temperament. Plus, their noses are sensitive and can track an otter’s scent trail underwater.
But as capable as they are in the water, the Otterhound makes a great family pet due to their calm and docile demeanor. They’re even-tempered dogs that know how to calm down and relax when they’re with their family.
- Otterhounds are extremely rare. There are fewer than 100 pairs left to continue breeding.
- The reason why Otterhounds are on the brink of extinction is because hunting otters is now illegal.
- The Otterhounds have webbed feet, giving them an extra boost when swimming in water.
English Terriers
Terriers have earned a reputation of being bold, spirited and good-natured. Their jobs include various work, though they were mostly bred to flush game from an underground burrow. That said, England is home to some of the most popular terrier dogs.
English dog breeds from the “terrier group” include the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Airedale Terrier, Norfolk & Norwich Terrier, Parson Russell, Border Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, and the Yorkshire terrier.
17. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Highlights: Smart, Affectionate, Courageous
Part of the four pitbull-type dog breeds, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the smallest of the bunch. But where they lack in size, they make up in pure warmth and friendliness. They may have a bad rep, but no one can deny their affection.
In the past, the ancestors of these dogs were subject to a cruel blood sport, that is, bull-baiting. It was a sport where these dogs were put in pits to essentially fight a bull to the death. When the blood sport was banned, they were repurposed.
The modern Pitbull may still have aggressive tendencies if not trained well. But for the most part, they will be loving and gentle dogs. The Staffordshire knows when to be calm, like in the presence of older kids. However, they can be playful too!
Staffordshires are some of the best family dogs today and their popularity shows it. Just make sure to properly train and socialize these dogs. Once fighters and gladiators in the pit, these dogs have evolved into sweet and calm companions.
- These dogs are the happiest when they have a job, such as guarding and watching territory.
- Staffordshire Bull Terriers are often called “Staffy” for short.
- They were once bred for bull-baiting but were developed into great nanny dogs.
18. Airedale Terrier
Highlights: Friendly, Smart, Brave
There’s no better nickname for this English dog than the “king of terriers.” While most terrier-types are a small bundle of energy, the Airedale is a massive dog that stands 23 inches tall and can weigh up to 70 pounds as an adult male!
These dogs originated from northern England, in a region called Aire Valley. In the mid 1800s at the peak of the industrial revolution, vermin was a problem. Mill workers needed a tough and agile dog that could take down rodents, but also help with hunting.
This was when the Airedale Terrier was developed. The workingmen crossed various terrier breeds, such as the Bedlington, Irish and Black and Tan Terrier. There’s also a hint of the Otterhound too. In the end, they had a brave and capable working dog.
These massive terriers are confident, courageous and alert when need be. As such, they will make good hunters, watchdogs and guard dogs. Even so, there’s a loving, friendly and outgoing side to the Airedale that people can’t resist.
- Standing around 23 inches tall, the Airedale Terrier is the biggest of all terrier dog breeds.
- Despite their large stature, Airedale Terriers were originally bred to hunt and kill rats.
- During World War I, the British used Airedale Terriers as couriers and sentries. In other words, they made dangerous deliveries and kept guard.
19. Norfolk & Norwich Terrier
Highlights: Brave, Alert, Playful
Also called the Norwich Terrier, the Norfolk Terrier is a classic example of a terrier-type dog. Though a Norfolk stands at just 10 inches tall, they’re bursting with energy and have a lively demeanor that’ll put a smile on anyone’s face.
An English dog breeder named Frank Jones is largely credited for the development of this dog. He had initially developed petite terriers that served as ratters and fox flushers. However, these dogs had later evolved into the breed we know today.
In the beginning, there were two breeds (or types). The Norwich Terriers had their ears up, while the Norfolk had their ears down. Aside from this, there was very little difference. And over time, the two breeds became distinct as more clubs recognized both.
These dogs were bred to hunt and work in packs. It’s why they have pack-dog mentality and often do well with other dogs in the home. But unlike other terriers, these English dogs are more sociable and less independent.
- These dogs were developed by a man named Frank Jones, who had the nickname “roughrider.”
- The difference between the Norwich and Norfolk Terrier is whether their ears are up or down – much like the Papillon and Phalene.
- They may be petite, but they are toy lap dogs. Rather, the Norfolk is a working dog breed.
20. Parson Russell Terrier (Jack Russell)
Highlights: Lively, Energetic, Smart