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Dog Breed

Old English Sheepdog

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Old English Sheepdog

Origin: England

Breed Group: Herding

Physical Characteristics

Size: Large

Height: Males: 22+ inches (56+ cm), Females: 21+ inches (53+ cm)

Weight: Males: 70–100 lbs (32–45 kg), Females: 60–85 lbs (27–39 kg)

Coat Type: Long, thick, shaggy, weather-resistant double coat

Coat Colors: Gray, blue, grizzle, with white markings

Grooming Needs: High

Shedding: Moderate to High

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Affectionate, playful, intelligent, adaptable

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 10–12 years

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), deafness, hypothyroidism

Care

Nutrition Needs: High-quality diet with portion control to prevent obesity

Exercise Needs: At least 1–1.5 hours daily; enjoys herding, walks, and playtime

Space Requirements: Best in homes with yards; can adapt to apartments with sufficient exercise

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Highly trainable and eager to please; responds well to positive reinforcement

Good with Children: Yes, social and friendly

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, social and friendly

Good with Other Pets: Yes, but may try to herd them

Training: Highly trainable and eager to please; responds well to positive reinforcement

Description

The Old English Sheepdog is a large, fluffy, and affectionate herding breed, originally bred for driving cattle and sheep. They are friendly, intelligent, and social dogs, making them excellent family pets. Their long-haired, dense double coat sheds heavily year-round, requiring frequent brushing and grooming to prevent matting. Training is generally easy, as they are intelligent and eager to please, but their independent nature can sometimes make them stubborn. With medium to high energy levels, they need daily exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation to stay happy.

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History

The Old English Sheepdog, often referred to as the OES, is a large breed of dog that originated in England. Despite its name, the breed is not an ancient sheepdog but rather a relatively modern breed developed in the 19th century.

Key Points

Origins: The breed's origins are not well-documented, but it is believed to have developed in the West Country of England, specifically in areas like Devon and Somerset. Theories suggest that it may have descended from breeds such as the Scottish Bearded Collie, Russian Owtcharka, and other European sheepdogs.
Development: Initially used as a drover's dog, the OES was responsible for driving sheep and cattle to market. Its thick coat helped it blend in with the flock and provided protection against harsh weather conditions.
Historical Use: The breed's tail was traditionally docked, earning it the nickname "Bobtail." This practice was partly to indicate that the dog was a working animal and thus exempt from taxes.
Recognition: The Old English Sheepdog was first shown in Britain in 1873 and gained popularity in the show ring by the early 1900s. It was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1905.
Today, the Old English Sheepdog is valued for its unique appearance and gentle nature. It is a popular family pet due to its intelligence, playfulness, and affectionate personality. However, its popularity has decreased somewhat since its peak in the 1970s, partly due to the high maintenance required for its coat.

Ideal Owner

Active families, experienced dog owners, herding enthusiasts