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Smithfield
Herding breed from England
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Smithfield
The Smithfield is a medium-sized herding breed with a shaggy coat, originating in England. It is known for being intelligent, loyal, work-focused, alert, independent, and courageous. Estimated adult weight ranges from 16 to 25 kg, height from 46 to 53 cm, and lifespan from 12 to 14 years. The breed's energy and trainability are rated 4 out of 5, grooming needs 4 out of 5, and shedding 3 out of 5. Suitability for children and other dogs is rated 3 out of 5, while apartment suitability is lower at 2 out of 5. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Smithfield at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHerding
OriginEngland
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight16–25 kilogram
Female weight16–25 kilogram
Male height46–53 centimetre
Female height46–53 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Smithfield is a historic droving breed originating in England, named after London's Smithfield Market where these dogs drove and managed cattle. They were known for their hardiness and intelligence. Early settlers brought them to Australia and Tasmania. The original English Smithfield is now extinct, but similar types persist as landrace breeds in Australia. The breed is considered a key ancestor to modern Old English Sheepdogs and Bearded Collies. It is important to note that the original form no longer exists, and current dogs referred to as Smithfields may vary.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
16–25 kilogramAdult weight46–53 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShaggyCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentloyalwork-focusedalertindependentcourageous
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Smithfield-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Smithfield puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight16–25 kilogramAdult female weight16–25 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Smithfield?
Estimated adult weight is 16–25 kg, height 46–53 cm, and lifespan 12–14 years. These are modelled estimates.
What is the temperament of a Smithfield?
The breed is described as intelligent, loyal, work-focused, alert, independent, and courageous. Individual dogs may vary.
How much exercise does a Smithfield need?
Energy score is 4 out of 5, indicating high exercise needs. They are a working breed and likely require regular physical activity.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming score is 4 out of 5, suggesting high maintenance. The shaggy coat likely needs regular brushing. Shedding is moderate (3/5).
Is a Smithfield suitable for families or apartments?
Child suitability is 3/5, dog compatibility 3/5, and apartment suitability 2/5. They may do better in homes with space and experience.
Where does the Smithfield originate?
The breed originates from England, specifically associated with London's Smithfield Market. It was used for droving cattle.
Is the Smithfield recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. The original English Smithfield is extinct, but similar landrace types exist in Australia.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.