Breed History:

The Smithfield is an old herding and droving breed believed to have originated in England, where it was traditionally used to drive cattle and sheep to the famous Smithfield Meat Market in London. These hardy, shaggy dogs earned a reputation for their endurance, intelligence, and ability to manage livestock over long distances.

While the original English Smithfield eventually disappeared as a distinct breed, dogs of the same type were exported to Australia and Tasmania during the 19th century. There, they contributed to the development of several Australian working breeds and survived in small numbers, particularly in Tasmania, where preservation efforts continue.

Today, the Smithfield is regarded as a rare heritage working dog, valued for its herding instincts, loyalty, and versatility.

Gender	Height	Weight
Male	48–58 cm	20–30 kg
Female	45–55 cm	18–28 kg

Size: Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Smithfield is a sturdy, athletic, and shaggy dog built for endurance and farm work.

The breed commonly features:

• Broad head

• Strong, medium-length muzzle

• Dark, expressive eyes

• Medium-sized drop ears, often hidden beneath the coat

• Deep chest and muscular body

• Strong, well-developed limbs

• Medium to long tail carried naturally

Its coat is long, dense, rough, and weather-resistant with a soft undercoat.

Common coat colours include:

• Black

• Blue

• Grey

• Black and white

• Blue and white

White markings on the chest, legs, and face are common.

The breed's shaggy coat and robust build reflect its history as a hardworking droving and herding dog.

Breed Type – Herding Dog:

The Smithfield is an intelligent, energetic, and dependable working breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal and devoted

• Intelligent and quick to learn

• Alert and watchful

• Energetic and hardworking

• Friendly with family

• Confident and adaptable

The breed possesses strong herding instincts while forming close bonds with its family.

Training:

The Smithfield is highly trainable and eager to work.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Obedience training

• Herding exercises

• Recall training

• Mental enrichment activities

The breed excels in:

• Herding

• Farm work

• Obedience

• Agility

• Rally obedience

• Canine sports

Consistent, reward-based training helps channel the breed's intelligence and energy.

Health & Care:

The Smithfield is generally healthy but may occasionally be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

• Ear infections

• Obesity if under-exercised

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Living Conditions:

The Smithfield is best suited to active homes with plenty of space.

Ideal environments include:

• Farms

• Rural properties

• Houses with secure yards

• Active families

• Homes with opportunities for regular outdoor activities

Apartment living is generally not recommended unless the dog receives extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation.

The breed thrives when given meaningful work and close interaction with its family.

Exercise:

The Smithfield has high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Long daily walks

• Running

• Herding activities

• Hiking

• Interactive games

• Agility

Both physical exercise and mental stimulation are essential for maintaining balanced behaviour.

Grooming:

The long, shaggy coat requires moderate to high maintenance.

• Brushing 2–3 times per week

• Removing tangles and mats regularly

• Occasional bathing

• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming

• Regular dental care

The breed sheds moderately, with heavier seasonal shedding.

Advantages:

• Excellent herding and farm dog

• Intelligent and highly trainable

• Loyal and affectionate with family

• Hardy and adaptable

• Excels in canine sports and outdoor activities

• Good watchdog

Disadvantages:

• High exercise and mental stimulation requirements

• Coat requires regular grooming

• Can become bored and destructive if under-exercised

• Strong herding instincts may lead to chasing behaviour

• Requires early socialisation and consistent training

• Generally unsuitable for sedentary households or apartment living