Old English Sheepdog

Shepherd's Dog, Bobtail, Sheepy, Bob-Tailed Sheep-Dog

Purpose

sheep herding

Breed Type : Pure Breeds

Breed Size: Large

The Old English Sheepdog, one of the most ancient dog breeds, gained recognition from the American Kennel Club merely four years after the organization was founded in 1888. Currently, it holds the position of the 75th most popular breed in the United States. This breed is notable for its substantial size and unique shaggy fur, having featured prominently in various television shows and movies, as well as being a popular contender in dog competitions. Old English Sheepdogs are not only robust but also gentle and exceptionally intelligent, adept at mastering a wide array of commands and tasks. Their dense double coat often partially covers their eyes and comes in several color variations, with the most common being grizzle and white, gray and white, blue merle and white, blue gray and white, and blue and white.

Breed Origin

The origins of the Old English Sheepdog are shrouded in mystery, with several theories about its past. The breed's name indicates that it was primarily bred for herding sheep in England, which is the most commonly accepted narrative. A painting by Gainsborough from 1771 depicts a smaller version of drop-eared dogs, thought to be an early depiction of the Old English Sheepdog. As noted by the Old English Sheepdog Club of America, this breed ranks among the oldest working dog breeds and is easily identifiable by its long, flowing coat that often obscures its face. Celebrated for their impressive coats and friendly demeanor, Old English Sheepdogs are also a favorite in dog shows. Initially bred to assist in herding sheep and cattle, these dogs were well-suited to the rugged terrains and harsh weather they encountered. In fact, many sheep farmers would shear their Old English Sheepdogs alongside their flocks, underscoring their practical value. The breed is believed to have developed from the drovers of the 1800s, chosen for their courage, dependability, and stamina. They were essential in guiding livestock over long distances and protecting both herds and flocks from predators like wolves, as well as shielding drovers from aggressive bulls and oxen. Today, while Old English Sheepdogs still serve as herding dogs in some areas, they are primarily kept as companion animals or show dogs. Their popularity soared in the 1960s, largely due to the success of the Disney film "The Shaggy Dog." Since then, they have made appearances in various films and television shows, including characters like Barney from "Barney," Lat from "The Brady Bunch," and Barkley from "Sesame Street."

Breed Appearance

The Old English Sheepdog is a strong and sturdy breed, distinguished by its waterproof undercoat and a long, dense topcoat that is straight but not flat, and plentiful without being overwhelming. It has a large, square head with eyes that may be blue, brown, or a mix of both. The medium-sized ears rest flat against the head, and the breed features a level bite with strong, even teeth and black lips, all of which contribute to its intelligent demeanor. This breed has a long neck and a compact yet solid body with well-sprung ribs, complemented by a closely docked or bobbed tail. Its short, muscular legs end in round feet with arched toes and thick pads. The coat comes in a variety of colors, with the five most common being grizzle and white, gray and white, blue merle and white, blue gray and white, and blue and white. The fur should be thick and solid, creating a shaggy look without appearing overweight, and it should drape over the eyes without curling.

Care Routine

The Old English Sheepdog, recognized for its thick and luxurious coat, necessitates daily grooming, especially for those being showcased in competitions. While many pet owners choose to clip or shave their dogs during off-show periods, there are effective methods to maintain their coat without such drastic measures. For example, using a comb to carefully remove the undercoat can help preserve the full length of their fur. This breed's dense coat struggles with heat, making undercoat management particularly important. Nonetheless, daily brushing is crucial to avoid mats and tangles, even when undercoat stripping is practiced. These dogs experience significant shedding, particularly in April and May, but consistent brushing can alleviate this problem. Furthermore, the Old English Sheepdog is an energetic breed that requires ample daily exercise, which can include brisk walks, engaging games of fetch, or trips to the dog park.

Behavior & Temperament

The Old English Sheepdog is an affectionate giant known for its innate herding abilities, so you might find your dog trying to gather other pets or even small children. With a cheerful and playful spirit, they are not only friendly companions but also capable watchdogs, equipped with a surprisingly loud bark. Their playful tendencies can sometimes result in excessive enthusiasm, making it crucial to train your Old English Sheepdog to control their energy. Training can be a bit of a challenge due to their intelligence and strong-willed nature, necessitating consistent guidance and positive reinforcement to ensure a harmonious relationship. These dogs thrive on companionship and do not enjoy being left alone; if they become bored, they may resort to destructive behaviors like digging in the yard or tearing up furniture. To keep your Old English Sheepdog mentally stimulated, it’s important to offer ample engagement both inside and outside the home.

Play & Exercise

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

3.0 Cups

Daily Activity

40 Minutes

Average Lifespan

11 Years

Origin

1800s

Type

Pure Breeds

Size

Large

Origin Country

England

Brush Frequency

Weekly

Coat Texture

Straight

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