25 Popular English Dog Breeds and Their Histories

Many popular dog breeds have their origins in the United Kingdom—specifically English dog breeds. Bulldogs, beagles, and golden retrievers are just three out of the many English dogs that are favorite pets.

Several English dog breeds were developed for specific working skills, including hunting, retrieving, and pest control. These breeds vary considerably in shape and size due to their specialized breeding for different tasks. Their personalities also differ widely, with some being naturally energetic and athletic, while others are known for being more laid-back.

Here are 25 popular dog breeds that have English roots.

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Many English dog breeds are easy to find at local animal shelters across the United States. You also can look for a breed-specific rescue or a reputable breeder.

01 of 25

Bulldog

Credit:
The Spruce / Kristie Lee

Bulldogs can be traced back all the way to the 13th century in England. Thanks to their powerful physique, they were used for the blood sport of bullbaiting—in which a pack of dogs would fight a staked bull. Once this sport was banned in the 1800s, bulldogs were used for illegal dog fighting.

The breed also was crossed with other terriers. Breeders have since refined the dog’s appearance, making them squatter with a flatter face and more wrinkles than their ancestors.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 14 to 15 inches
Weight: 50 pounds (males); 40 pounds (females)
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, docile, willful
Energy Level: Low
Coat and Color: Smooth, fine coat; comes in several different colors
Life Span: 8 to 10 years
02 of 25

Beagle

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Classen Rafael / EyeEm / Getty Images

In the 1500s, English hunters had both large hounds for deer and small hounds for rabbits. Beagles descended from those small hounds. And by the 1800s these small hounds were being bred not only for their hunting prowess but also their desirable friendly appearance.

English breeders preferred a larger variety to hunt foxes while Americans developed a slightly smaller beagle to hunt rabbits. There are still two size varieties recognized today.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: Two varieties: up to 13 inches; 13 to 15 inches
Weight: Two varieties: under 20 pounds; 20 to 30 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Companionable, attentive, fearless
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Close, hard, medium-length coat; colors include tricolor (tan, black, and white), red and white, lemon and white, and more
Life Span: 10 to 15 years
03 of 25

Yorkshire Terrier

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The Spruce / Kristie Lee

The Yorkshire terrier has roots in the English counties Yorkshire and Lancashire, dating back to the 1800s. This breed is thought to be a mix of some terrier breeds from Scotland, including the Skye and Dandie Dinmont. It also might have some Maltese in it.

Early Yorkies were used as rodent exterminators, especially in textile mills and coal mines. But they quickly won the hearts of the elite as well, becoming desirable lapdogs.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 7 to 8 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Bright, affectionate, playful
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Silky coat; colors include black and tan, blue and tan, and more
Life Span: 11 to 15 years
04 of 25

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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The Spruce / Kristie Lee

In the 17th century, King Charles I and Charles II both were fond of a small type of spaniel with a black-and-tan coat. This spaniel remained popular with British aristocrats into the 19th century when they were crossed with small Asian dog breeds, giving them a flatter face and domed skull.

Then, in the 1920s, breeders attempted to recreate the original version of the little spaniel based on old portraits of the dogs in English manors, resulting in the Cavalier.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 12 to 13 inches
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Sociable, gentle, patient
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Medium-length, silky coat; feathering around the legs, ears, chest, and tail; colors include black and tan, black and white, and more
Life Span: 12 to 15 years

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05 of 25

English Springer Spaniel

Credit:
The Spruce / Kristie Lee

For centuries in England, both “cocker” and “springer” spaniels (early versions of today’s spaniel breeds) could be born in the same litter. The springers were larger dogs, used to flush or “spring” birds and other game from their hiding spots for hunters.

In the 1800s, breed standards developed for several spaniel types, and by 1902 the English springer spaniel was officially recognized in England. Today's breed still retains that exceptional hunting ability.

Breed Overview

Group: Sporting (AKC)
Height: 20 inches (males); 19 inches (females)
Weight: 50 pounds (males); 40 pounds (females)
Personality/Temperament: Attentive, cheerful, intelligent
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Long coat with feathering on the chest, ears, stomach, and legs; colors include black and white, liver and white, and more
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
06 of 25

Bullmastiff

Credit: Danita Delimont / Getty Images

The bullmastiff is another one of today’s popular English dog breeds with an interesting history. In the 1800s, poachers were targeting the country estates of English aristocrats. In response, a huge, athletic, and courageous dog was developed that could catch and pin down any invading poacher.

This dog was a mix of bulldogs and mastiffs—hence the name bullmastiff. They were large enough to be intimidating yet smart and loyal enough to follow commands. Bullmastiffs today still can be skeptical of strangers.

Breed Overview

Group: Working (AKC)
Height: 25 to 27 inches (males); 24 to 26 inches (females)
Weight: 110 to 130 pounds (males); 100 to 120 pounds (females)
Personality/Temperament: Protective, alert, loyal
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short and dense coat; fawn, red, or brindle colors
Life Span: 7 to 9 years
07 of 25

English Cocker Spaniel

Credit:
The Spruce / Kristie Lee

The earliest English cocker spaniels were born into the same litters as the larger springer spaniels. This smaller type specialized in hunting woodcock, hence the name.

As spaniel breeds became solidified in the 19th century, the breed standard developed for the English cocker. Then, in the early 20th century, American breeders developed an even smaller cocker spaniel with a smaller head and more prominently domed skull.

Breed Overview

Group: Sporting (AKC)
Height: 16 to 17 inches (males); 15 to 16 inches (females)
Weight: 28 to 34 pounds (males); 26 to 32 pounds (females)
Personality/Temperament: Even-tempered, cheerful, friendly
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Silky, medium-length; feathering on ears, legs, and chest; comes in many colors
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
08 of 25

Airedale Terrier

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s5iztok / Getty Images

Airedale terriers can trace their roots to Aire Valley in Northern England. In the 1800s, factory and mill workers bred these large terriers to be smart, tough, and fearless hunting dogs.

The otterhound, multiple terrier types, and potentially setters, retrievers, and herders all went into the Airedale’s makeup. This created a versatile dog that was good with game on land and in water.

Breed Overview

Group: Terrier (AKC)
Height: 23 inches
Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, confident, courageous
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Wiry, dense, straight, short topcoat; softer undercoat; head and ears are tan; body is a mix of tan and black or grizzle
Life Span: 11 to 14 years

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09 of 25

Whippet

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Dark Horse / Getty Images

During the 1800s, coal miners in England wanted to take part in hunting and dog racing. However, they couldn’t afford to keep large dogs like the greyhound. So they bred a smaller dog that was just as good of an athlete and hunter.

It’s likely they crossed greyhounds with small but fast terriers, resulting in the swift little whippet. The modern version is still lightning fast and has a strong prey drive, and is one of the many beloved English dog breeds.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 19 to 22 inches (males); 18 to 21 inches (females)
Weight: 25 to 40 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Gentle, friendly, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short, smooth coat; comes in various colors
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
10 of 25

Bull Terrier

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alberto clemares expósito / Getty Images

Bull terriers share the same ancestors as today’s bulldogs. In the 1800s, bulldogs were being crossed with terrier breeds to create strong and spirited fighters (with the terriers providing their fiery demeanor).

The bull terrier arose from these crosses and was used in illegal dog fighting. However, this English dog breed also became a popular companion animal, leading breeders to soften the dog's looks and sweeten their temperament.

Breed Overview

Group: Terrier (AKC)
Height: 21 to 22 inches
Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, lively
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Short coat; colors include white, brindle, black and tan, and more
Life Span: 12 to 13 years
11 of 25

Golden Retriever

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One of the most popular dogs in the United States, the golden retriever is actually an English dog breed. This dog was bred in England during the 1800s to serve as a hunting dog used to retrieve birds and other game.

Today, these friendly, lovable, and smart dogs are most likely to retrieve a well-worn tennis ball, as they excel at fetch. Goldens make wonderful family dogs and they are quite protective of their humans.

Breed Overview

Group: Sporting (AKC)
Height: 21 to 24 inches
Weight: 55 to 75 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, trustworthy, playful
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Medium length double coat; golden hue
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
12 of 25

Old English Sheepdog

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chendongshan / Getty Images

Yet another English dog breed is the Old English sheepdog. These famously shaggy dogs were originally bred centuries ago to drive sheep and cattle to market, and were even occasionally used to pull carts.

Old English sheepdogs are sturdy, muscular dogs that also make fine guard dogs and are affectionate, loyal family pets. They requite significant daily exercise and daily grooming, however, so can be considered a high-maintenance breed.

Breed Overview

Group: Herding (AKC)
Height: 21 inches and up
Weight: 60 to 100 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, sociable, loving
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Long, shaggy double coat; gray and white or blue and white
Life Span: 10 to 12 years

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13 of 25

Border Collie

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Considered to be one of the most intelligent of dog breeds, the border collie was developed along the border of England and Scotland for use in herding sheep. Their ancestry likely dates back centuries to dogs brought to Great Britain by the Romans.

Today, they are a very high-energy, super-smart, and affectionate breed that requires significant exercise every day, along with plenty of daily training, playtime, and interactions with their humans.

Breed Overview

Group: Herding (AKC)
Height: 18 to 22 inches
Weight: 30 to 50 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Responsive, loyal, alert
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Medium double coat; almost any color or pattern
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
14 of 25

Greyhound

The ancestry of the greyhound dates back to ancient Egypt, but it was in medieval England that the breed was developed into the speedy racer we know today. The fastest breed of dog, greyhounds can run at over 40 mph.

Their speed made them ideal for use as hunting dogs that pursued rabbits and other fast-running prey, but also for use as racing dogs. Today, they are mostly valued as gentle, loyal, and affectionate family pets.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 27 to 30 inches
Weight: 60 to 70 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, quiet, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth, short coat; almost any solid color or single color plus white
Life Span: 10 to 13 years
15 of 25

Jack Russell Terrier

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TERADAT SANTIVIVUT / Getty Images

Developed by Rev. John Russell in the early 1800s for use in hunting foxes, the Jack Russell terrier is a descendant of fox terriers and other small-to-medium terrier breeds.

This is a very intelligent, highly active, and somewhat rowdy breed that requires significant exercise and activity every day to prevent unwanted barking or other undesirable behaviors. Jack Russells are also very affectionate and good with children.

Breed Overview

Group: Terrier (AKC)
Height: 13 to 14 inches
Weight: 13 to 17 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Fearless, intelligent, quirky
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Smooth, short coat; white with patches of other colors
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
16 of 25

Bloodhound

Credit: Photo © iStockphoto.com/Deborah Cheramie

The bloodhound likely originated in Europe during the 700s and was brought to England in the 11th century, where they were bred extensively for use in hunting deer and wild boar.

This English dog breed's exceptional scent-tracking ability makes them very useful for tracking escaped convicts, lost children or hikers, and for search-and-rescue work. They are easygoing, affectionate family pets as well.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 80 to 110 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Loving, gentle, stubborn
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Smooth, short coat; black and tan, liver and tan, or red
Life Span: 10 to 12 years

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17 of 25

English Pointer

Credit: Art meripol

An ancient breed with unclear origins, pointers were eventually brought to England in the early 1700s, where they were bred extensively for use as hunting dogs. Their specialty is pointing to indicate the presence of game birds, such as pheasants or quail.

Fast, agile, and athletic dogs, they are good companions to joggers or runners, and they are also very friendly family dogs that generally get along well with everyone.

Breed Overview

Group: Sporting (AKC)
Height: 23 to 28 inches
Weight: 45 to 75 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Even-tempered, friendly, affectionate
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Smooth, short coat; combinations of brown and white, liver and white, or black and white
Life Span: 12 to 17 years
18 of 25

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Credit: Getty

Created by mixing bulldogs and small terriers, Staffordshire bull terriers originated in England during the early 1800s. They were bred to be used for bull-baiting and dog fighting, blood sports which were officially outlawed in England in the 1830s.

Despite their rough past, Staffies today are sweet-natured, affectionate dogs that are devoted to their families and are easy to train.

Breed Overview

Group: Terrier (AKC)
Height: 14 to 16 inches
Weight: 24 to 38 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Bold, reliable, loyal
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth, short coat; almost any color or combination of colors
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
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English Foxhound

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AElisa/iStock/Getty Images Plus/Getty Images

English foxhounds trace their ancestry back to the 1600s in England, where large stag-hunting dogs were crossed with greyhounds to create a smaller scent-hound for use in hunting foxes. Packs of these dogs accompanied hunters on horseback while flushing out and chasing down foxes.

While they are gentle dogs, they are not exceptional family pets, as their drive to track down prey by scent is very strong.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 23 to 25 inches
Weight: 60 to 75 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Companionable, affectionate, gentle
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Short double coat; black and white or brown and white
Life Span: 10 to 13 years
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Wire Fox Terrier

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Wire fox terriers trace their histories back to the late 1700s, when the breed was created by mixing other terriers to produce a wire-haired dog that excelled at hunting foxes. They also make excellent mousers and ratters, and have a high prey drive.

These feisty, playful, and lovable dogs make good household pets as long as they get plenty of exercise and attention. They are very intelligent, but can be stubborn.

Breed Overview

Group: Terrier (AKC)
Height: 14 to 15 inches
Weight: 15 to 19 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Brave, alert, friendly
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Wiry coat; white or white with black and/or tan
Life Span: 13 to 14 years

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Manchester Terrier

Credit:

Robbie Goodall / Getty Images

The Manchester terrier is an English dog breed that dates back to the 1800s. Breeders wanted a dog that could do well in hunting rabbits and rat killing. They crossed the black and tan terrier with the whippet and created the Manchester terrier, named after the city of Manchester.

This breed comes in two sizes: standard and toy. These dogs are clean and independent, and described as cat-like. Very athletic and highly intelligent, they are affectionate with their family and make great pets.

Breed Overview

GROUP: Toy/Terrier
HEIGHT: 10 to 12 inches (toy); 15 to 16 inches (standard)
WEIGHT: Under 12 pounds (toy); 12 to 22 pounds (standard)
Personality/Temperament: Devoted, alert, active
Energy Level: High
COAT AND COLOR: Short coat; black and tan; mahogany markings
LIFE SPAN: 15 to 17 years
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Bedlington Terrier

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slowmotiongli / Getty Images

The Bedlington terrier is a rare English breed, and a unique looking dog that’s described as looking like a lamb. They have a pear-shaped head and a curly coat. The breed is named after the mining town where it was created.

These dogs are energetic, fun, brave, and charming. They make great family pets, and can also be good watchdogs. Plus, this is a hypoallergenic breed that can be good for those with allergies.

Breed Overview

GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 15.5 to 17.5 inches
WEIGHT: 17 to 23 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, good-tempered
Energy Level: High
COAT AND COLOR: Hard and soft hair; blue, sandy, or liver, sometimes combined with tan
LIFE SPAN: 11 to 16 years
23 of 25

Clumber Spaniel

Adolescent Clumber spaniel. Credit:
Corey O'Hara/iStock/Getty Images

Dating back to at least the 1700s, the origins of the Clumber spaniel aren’t entirely clear, but these dogs got to North America in the 1800s. These dogs enjoy spending time with their family, and they are playful and loving—in fact, they are considered one of the most affectionate dog breeds.

A couple things to consider: this dog sheds all year long and also drools. They can also be stubborn, even though they are considered easy to train.

Breed Overview

GROUP: Sporting
HEIGHT: 18 to 20 inches (males); 17 to 19 inches (females)
WEIGHT: 70 to 85 pounds (males); 55 to 70 pounds (females)
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, gentle, loyal
Energy Level: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Medium-length, straight to wavy, and soft; white, often with yellow or orange markings
LIFE SPAN: 10 to 12 years
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English Setter

Credit: Photo © iStockphoto.com/nelsonarts

The exact history of the English setter is not known, but this breed is one of the oldest gun dog breeds. These dogs used to be called setting spaniels, and were used for hunting. They need to release their energy with at least one hour of exercise daily.

In addition to playing and exercising, these gentle dogs make great family dogs that can get along with kids. They retain their high prey drive that can make them chase animals, so they might not be suitable for homes with other pets.

Breed Overview

GROUP: Sporting
HEIGHT: 25 to 27 inches (males); 23 to 25 inches (females)
WEIGHT: 65 to 80 pounds (males); 45 to 55 pounds (females)
Personality/Temperament: Lively, playful, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Flat, silky, medium-length single coat; feathering on ears, abdomen, chest, legs, tail; white coat base with belton markings including flecks or intermingled roan (belton colors include orange, lemon, liver, blue, and tri-color)
LIFE SPAN: 10 to 12 years

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Border Terrier

Despite their size, Border Terriers are energetic and feisty. Credit:
Bigandt_Photography / Getty Images

The border terrier is related to the Bedlington terrier and Dandie Dinmont terrier, and originated in the Scottish-English border region. Farmers in that area in the 19th century sought a dog that would be able to both deter and catch foxes that posed threats to their sheep.

This small dog has a wiry coat and a friendly disposition. They have a high prey drive and like to dig, but they are loving with their humans and can make good pets for households with children.

Breed Overview

GROUP: Terrier
HEIGHT: 12 to 15 inches
WEIGHT: 13 to 15.5 pounds (males); 11.5 to 14 pounds (females)
Personality/Temperament: Lively, affectionate, bright
Energy Level: Medium
COAT AND COLOR: Short and wiry coat; blue and tan, grizzle and tan, red, or wheaten; muzzle is usually darker
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years

Breed Characteristics

There are a variety of English dog breeds to suit all types of households. Smaller dogs that don’t bark much are great for those living in apartments, while breeds with a lot of energy are ideal for active households.

Many English dogs were bred to hunt or work, so they can make loyal and loving companions. However, they may still have a high prey drive that makes them unsuitable for homes with other pets, such as cats and small pets. Puppies that are raised with other pets and properly trained and socialized are more likely to live happily with other pets.

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FAQ

What is the life expectancy of English dog breeds?

Life expectancy varies with breed. For instance, bulldogs live around 8 to 10 years, while breeds like Border terriers can live up to 15 years.
Are English dog breeds suitable for families with children?

Many English dog breeds, such as the Golden Retriever and Clumber Spaniel, are known to be affectionate and good with children, making them suitable for family environments.
Do English dog breeds require a lot of exercise?

It depends on the breed. Breeds like Border Collies and Jack Russell Terriers require significant exercise, while others like Bulldogs have lower energy levels.

25 Popular English Dog Breeds That Leave Us Absolutely Chuffed

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