The Old English Sheepdog is a large breed of dog that originated in England, as the name suggests. This breed is known for its distinctive shaggy coat, which is usually white with gray, blue, or black markings. The coat is thick and requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

Old English Sheepdogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, and they make great family pets. They are intelligent and eager to please, but can be stubborn at times. They have a playful and energetic personality and require daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy.

In the past, Old English Sheepdogs were used as herding dogs, but today they are mostly kept as companion animals. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, and make excellent watchdogs. They are also used as therapy dogs due to their gentle and loving nature.

If you are considering adopting an Old English Sheepdog, it is important to research the breed thoroughly and make sure you can provide the care and attention that they require. They are a high-maintenance breed and may not be suitable for first-time dog owners.

 

 

Size

Old English Sheepdogs are considered a large breed, with males typically weighing between 70-100 pounds and females weighing between 60-85 pounds. They typically stand about 21-24 inches tall at the shoulder.

Coat

The Old English Sheepdog’s coat is thick and shaggy, with a soft undercoat and a harsher outer coat. They require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. Many owners choose to keep their Old English Sheepdogs trimmed to a shorter length for easier maintenance.

Temperament

Old English Sheepdogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are great with children and other pets, and enjoy being around people. They are loyal and protective, but not aggressive. They can be stubborn at times, but with consistent training and positive reinforcement, they can be well-behaved and obedient.

 

 

Exercise

Old English Sheepdogs require daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy walks, runs, and playtime in a fenced yard. They are also good at canine sports like obedience, agility, and herding.

Health

Old English Sheepdogs can be prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems. It’s important to choose a reputable breeder who screens their dogs for these issues. Regular vet checkups and proper care can help ensure a long and healthy life for your Old English Sheepdog.

Lifespan

Old English Sheepdogs typically live between 10-12 years.

Overall, the Old English Sheepdog is a wonderful breed for the right family. They are loyal, and loving, and make great companions. If you’re considering adding an Old English Sheepdog to your family, be prepared for lots of grooming and exercise, and enjoy the love and affection they will bring to your life.

 

 

Breed Confusion

Old English Sheepdog vs. Briard vs. Bearded Collie

Several breeds share similarities with the Old English Sheepdog (OES) in terms of appearance, coat type, or temperament.

 

Here is a comparison of the Old English Sheepdog (OES), the Briard, and the Bearded Collie:

Appearance:

• Old English Sheepdog (OES): The OES has a large, squarely-built body with a shaggy double coat that covers the eyes. Their coat is typically gray, grizzle, or blue in color.
• Briard: The Briard is a well-muscled dog with a strong, rectangular body and a long, shaggy double coat. They come in various colors, including black, fawn, and gray.
• Bearded Collie: The Bearded Collie has a medium-sized, agile body with a dense double coat that covers the face. Their coat comes in various colors, such as black, blue, brown, or fawn.

 

Temperament:

• Old English Sheepdog (OES): OES dogs are known for their friendly, sociable nature. They are intelligent, adaptable, and tend to get along well with children and other pets. They can be somewhat independent but are generally loving and loyal.
• Briard: Briards are intelligent, protective, and loyal. They have a strong herding instinct and are known to be reserved with strangers. They require firm, consistent training and socialization from an early age.
• Bearded Collie: Bearded Collies are active, lively, and playful. They are highly sociable, enjoy being part of the family, and get along well with children and other pets. They are intelligent and trainable but may exhibit some independent thinking.

 

Exercise and Training:

• Old English Sheepdog (OES): OES dogs require regular exercise, including daily walks and playtime. They have moderate exercise needs and can adapt to various living situations, provided they get enough mental and physical stimulation. They respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques.
• Briard: Briards are energetic and require regular exercise, including long walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. They excel in various dog sports and activities. They are intelligent and trainable but may require consistent and patient training methods.
• Bearded Collie: Bearded Collies are highly active and require regular exercise, including daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. They thrive in environments where they can participate in activities like herding, agility, or obedience. They are intelligent and respond well to positive, reward-based training methods.

 

Grooming:

• Old English Sheepdog (OES): The OES has a long, thick double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They require professional grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
• Briard: The Briard’s long, shaggy double coat also requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Occasional professional grooming is necessary to keep their coat in good condition.
• Bearded Collie: Bearded Collies have a medium-length, dense double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They require moderate grooming maintenance compared to the OES and the Briard.

 

Size:

• Old English Sheepdog (OES): OES dogs are large-sized dogs. Males typically stand around 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 60-100 pounds, while females are slightly smaller.
• Briard: Briards are also large-sized dogs. Males usually stand around 24-27.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 70-100 pounds, while females are slightly smaller.
• Bearded Collie: Bearded Collies are medium-sized dogs. Males typically stand around 20-22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 45-55 pounds, while females are slightly smaller.

 

These comparisons highlight some of the similarities and differences between the Old English Sheepdog, the Briard, and the Bearded Collie. Remember that individual dogs within each breed may vary in temperament and specific traits, so it’s important to spend time with and learn about each breed before making a decision.

 

 

FUN FACTS

Here are some fun & interesting facts about Old English Sheepdogs:

1. The Old English Sheepdog is often referred to as the “Bobtail” due to its docked tail, which was originally done to avoid taxes on working dogs in England.
2. The Old English Sheepdog was first shown in a dog show in Birmingham, England in 1873.
3. Despite their shaggy appearance, Old English Sheepdogs are actually hypoallergenic and produce less dander than some other breeds.
4. The Old English Sheepdog was the inspiration for the animated character of the shaggy dog in the Disney movie “The Little Mermaid”.
5. The Old English Sheepdog is known for its love of attention and being a bit of a clown. They often enjoy making their owners laugh and entertaining those around them.
6. The Old English Sheepdog has a high prey drive and was originally bred to herd sheep, but today they are more commonly kept as family pets.
7. The Old English Sheepdog is a relatively rare breed, with only about 500 new puppies registered with the American Kennel Club each year.
8. The Old English Sheepdog was used as a symbol for the Dulux paint company in the UK for over 50 years, featuring in a series of TV commercials where it was affectionately known as “the Dulux dog”.

 

 

 

READY TO ADD AN OLD ENGLISH SHEEPDOG TO YOUR HOME OR FAMILY?

Old English Sheepdogs make wonderful family pets with their friendly and affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their human family members. Their shaggy appearance and joyful disposition bring a lot of charm and love to any household willing to provide them with the care and attention they need.

Before getting an Old English Sheepdog (OES), it’s important to consider several factors to ensure that this breed is the right fit for you and your lifestyle. Here are some key factors to consider:

Space and Living Arrangements: OES dogs are large-sized and require ample space to move around comfortably. They are not suitable for small apartments or homes without access to a yard. Ideally, they should have a secure and spacious area to roam and play.

Exercise Needs: While not excessively high-energy, OES dogs still require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They benefit from daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. Ensure that you can commit to providing them with adequate exercise and enrichment activities.

Grooming Requirements: OES dogs have a long, thick, and shaggy double coat that requires regular grooming. Their coat can easily mat and tangle, so be prepared for regular brushing (at least a few times a week) to prevent matting. Professional grooming is also necessary to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.

Time and Attention: OES dogs are social animals that thrive on human companionship. They require regular interaction, attention, and socialization to prevent boredom and potential behavior issues. They may not do well if left alone for long periods. Consider your schedule and ensure that you can provide them with the time and attention they need.

Training and Socialization: OES dogs are intelligent and trainable, but they may have an independent streak. They require consistent and positive reinforcement-based training methods. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-rounded and confident adults.

Family and Compatibility: OES dogs are generally friendly and good-natured, making them suitable for families. However, their large size and exuberant nature may not be suitable for households with very young children who may be accidentally knocked over. Additionally, they may not be compatible with households with small pets due to their herding instincts.

Health Considerations: OES dogs are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and hypothyroidism. It’s important to be aware of these potential health concerns and be prepared for regular veterinary check-ups and potential medical expenses.

Time Commitment: OES dogs have a lifespan of around 10-12 years. Owning any dog is a long-term commitment, and OES dogs require dedicated care, attention, and love throughout their lives. Ensure that you are ready for the long-term commitment of providing for their needs and well-being.

By carefully considering these factors, you can determine whether an Old English Sheepdog is the right breed for you and provide a suitable and fulfilling home for them.

 

Grab your FREE New Puppy Success Guide to help select, prepare for, and train your new puppy!! 

 

 

If you are interested in purchasing an Old English Sheepdog puppy in the USA, there are several options available to you:

1. Reputable Breeders: You can search for reputable Old English Sheepdog breeders in the USA through resources like the American Kennel Club (AKC) website or the Old English Sheepdog Club of America. It’s important to do your research, ask questions, and visit the breeder to ensure they follow ethical breeding practices, prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, and provide proper care for the puppies.
2. Rescue Organizations: Consider checking with Old English Sheepdog rescue organizations or local animal shelters. These organizations rescue and rehome Old English Sheepdogs in need of new homes. Adopting a dog from a rescue organization can be a rewarding experience and gives a deserving dog a second chance.

 

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT OUR OLD ENGLISH SHEEPDOG 101 VIDEO ON YOUTUBE!!

 

 

Old English Sheepdog Puppy Prices

 

The average price for an Old English Sheepdog puppy from a reputable breeder in the United States ranges from $1,500 to $3,000. However, please keep in mind that prices can vary depending on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s lineage and pedigree, geographic location, and the demand for the breed.

 

 

Remember to consult with your breeder or veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your puppy’s needs.

Keep in mind that the purchase of any dog is a big decision and responsibility, and it is important to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and preferences.

 

SUMMARY

Old English Sheepdog Height: 22-24 inches

Old English Sheepdog Weight: 70-90 lbs.

Old English Sheepdog Colors: Gray, Grizzle, Blue

Old English Sheepdog Temperament: Friendly, sociable, intelligent, adaptable, loyal

Old English Sheepdog Life Expectancy: 10-12 years.

 

Overall, the Old English Sheepdog makes a loyal and affectionate companion, bringing joy and companionship to their owners with their friendly and gentle nature.

 

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