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Old English Sheepdog Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Old English Sheepdog so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank70
Reviews1
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Old English Sheepdog dog profile picture
OriginEngland flagEngland
Other Names
What other names does the Old English Sheepdog have?
Bobtail
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Overview

The Bobtail is a playful, lovable clown who is happy to spend time with his family. Giant, athletic dog breed with a unique shaggy coat. Their fur covers their eyes, which doesn't disturb the animal at all. Their movement is unique: they raise the legs on the same side at a time. They have small, so-called cat paw, and it is also rich in hair. A calm and balanced dog with an easy-going character. Extremely intelligent, fast learner, always looking for something interesting and fun. It is an excellent guard dog and also friendly, calm and loyal. Characteristic of her strange, trembling barking. He is famous for his wonderfully sweet character, strength and diligent. Those who know and love the breed can also be aware of their sense of humor. They’re both playful and funny at once, yet a true guardian and defender of the family. Bobtails loves being with their family, they hate loneliness, so the breed can suffer from separation anxiety if they stay alone for too long. The Old English Sheepdog is extremely adaptable. For some people, it may be surprising that the breed can live comfortably in an apartment if you are walking them regularly.

Bobtails gets along well with other dogs and pets, but sometimes they’re prone to jealousy. They are also friendly with children and they really love them. In the United States, it is also called "nanny". The Old English Sheepdog likes obeying to his master's, so they rarely behave dominantly, so it’s very easy to train them. Nowadays, this dog enjoys the comfort of home life and is an extremely agile, obedient and good observer. Long hair, enthusiastic, cheerful character make Bobtail a great companion for any family, who has time and patience for it, but it must be taken into account that the breed requires a lot of care. Because of the origin of a herding dog, they like doing active tasks, like 1-2 hours of daily exercise. Due to his speed, obedience, and sense, the Old English Shepherd Dog can provide excellent performance in a variety of dog sports.

Training and proper socialization are essential to them. They’re responsive to kind and consistent training. Bobtails were originally bred for herding cattle and sheep, so it requires regular exercise. Obedience training is recommended for all dogs, but especially for large breeds such as the Old English Shepherd Dog. The basic commands ("sit", "come", "stay") are important for everyday life with any dog, but take note of this drooling shepherd dog and realize that these commands are key.

Old English Sheepdog Size and Weight

Size
Is an Old English Sheepdog small, medium or large dog?

How big do Old English Sheepdog get?

What is the average size of an Old English Sheepdog?

Large
Weight
How much does the Old English Sheepdog weigh? How much should an Old English Sheepdog weight? What is the normal weight of an Old English Sheepdog? How much does a full-grown Old English Sheepdog weight?
Male: from 65 pounds (29 kg), Female: from 60 pounds (27 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Old English Sheepdog?
Male: from 65 pounds (29 kg), Female: from 60 pounds (27 kg)
Height
How tall is the Old English Sheepdog? Old English Sheepdog height:
Male: 22-24 inches (56-61 cm), Female: 20-22 inches (51 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Old English Sheepdog?
Male: 23 inches (58.5 cm), Female: 21 inches (51 cm)

Old English Sheepdog Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Old English Sheepdog puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Old English Sheepdog in the United States? How much money is an Old English Sheepdog?

Where to buy an Old English Sheepdog with a good pedigree?

$1200-$1500
If you choose to purchase the Old English Sheepdog, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Old English Sheepdog for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Old English Sheepdog gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Old English Sheepdog? How many Old English Sheepdog are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Old English Sheepdog is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Old English Sheepdog Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Old English Sheepdog? Is the Old English Sheepdog breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Old English Sheepdog dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Old English Sheepdog is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Old English Sheepdog dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Old English Sheepdog?
Old English Sheepdog dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Tenderness and consistency are needed in training the breed. They want to please their master and rarely behave in a dominant way. Bobtails are also suitable for those who don't have much experience in dog training.
Watchdog Ability
Is Old English Sheepdog good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Old English Sheepdog dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Old English Sheepdog dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Old English Sheepdog dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Old English Sheepdog dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Old English Sheepdog Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Old English Sheepdog have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
PlayfulFunnyLovingProtectiveIntelligentSociableAdaptableBubbly
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Old English Sheepdog sensitivity:
Sensitive: Old English Sheepdog dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Old English Sheepdog a good family dog?
High: Old English Sheepdog dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Bobtail need? Old English Sheepdog social needs:
Old English Sheepdog dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Old English Sheepdog to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Old English Sheepdog roam?
Old English Sheepdog dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Old English Sheepdog have high prey drive?
Old English Sheepdog dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals.

Old English Sheepdog Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Old English Sheepdog is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Most of these dogs love playing ball games.
Barking
Do Old English Sheepdog dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Bobtail bark?
Average: The Old English Sheepdog barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

They have a strange, trembling bark.
Apartment Friendly
Is Old English Sheepdog good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Old English Sheepdog in an apartment?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Old English Sheepdog indoors.

Old English Sheepdog Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Old English Sheepdog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Old English Sheepdog be left alone? How long can you leave an Old English Sheepdog alone?
Old English Sheepdog dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Old English Sheepdog Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Old English Sheepdog has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Old English Sheepdog? How much bite force does an Old English Sheepdog have? How strong is an Old English Sheepdog bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Old English Sheepdog bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Old English Sheepdog measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Old English Sheepdog is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Old English Sheepdog bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Old English Sheepdog bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Old English Sheepdog puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Old English Sheepdog, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Old English Sheepdog bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Old English Sheepdog can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Old English Sheepdog bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Bobtail? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Old English Sheepdog? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Old English Sheepdog has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Old English Sheepdog do?
Old English Sheepdog dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Old English Sheepdog dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Old English Sheepdog Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Old English Sheepdog dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Old English Sheepdog is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
In the first year, the dog grows from 0.5 kg to 25 kg. When fully grown, it weighs up to 45 kg. Due to this rapid growth, especially between the four and seven months of age, they are prone to bone diseases such as hip dysplasia. Make sure your puppy maintains a high-quality, low-calorie diet that protects him from growing too fast. In addition, it should not be run and play on very hard surfaces such as the pavement; best in the grass. Jumping or jogging on hard surfaces should also be avoided until the dog is at least 2 years old and its joints are fully developed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Old English Sheepdog breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Old English Sheepdog breed? Most common health risks of Old English Sheepdog:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia AllergiesDeafnessEntropionDiabetesHeat Intolerance
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Old English Sheepdog breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Old English Sheepdog see the vet?
Average
The Old English Sheepdog should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Old English Sheepdog dogs live? How old can a Old English Sheepdog be? What is the age limit of the Old English Sheepdog? How many years can the oldest Old English Sheepdog live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Old English Sheepdog?

How long is the lifespan of an Old English Sheepdog?

10-12 years
The average lifespan of Old English Sheepdog: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Old English Sheepdog can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Old English Sheepdog Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Old English Sheepdog have? What is the activity level of the Old English Sheepdog?
Old English Sheepdog dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Adolescence often extends to about three years of age but retains its behavior as an adult until its very old age. The puppies are silly, funny and have a lot of energy - so much that they can be devastating in our home if we don't care for them. On the other hand, older dogs lie on the couch and should be encouraged to exercise.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Old English Sheepdog need? How much exercise do Old English Sheepdog dogs require per day?

Do Old English Sheepdog dogs need a lot of exercises?

Old English Sheepdog dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This breed requires a significant amount of physical and mental training. They can easily adapt to little exercise, but it is not healthy for them. The dog's dense fur coat is extremely warm, allowing it to overheat quickly and easily. Reduce the amount of outdoor exercise if the weather is too hot.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Old English Sheepdog breed need?
Old English Sheepdog dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Old English Sheepdog Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Old English Sheepdog need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Old English Sheepdog breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Old English Sheepdog? How much food should I feed my Old English Sheepdog?
Recommended daily amount: 2.5 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Old English Sheepdog risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Old English Sheepdog's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Old English Sheepdog weight regularly.

Old English Sheepdog Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Old English Sheepdog have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
WaterproofShaggyDouble
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Old English Sheepdog coats?
Gray Blue White Grizzle Merle
Grooming
How to groom the Old English Sheepdog and how often? How often should I take my Old English Sheepdog to the groomer?
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. The Old English Sheepdog requires grooming on a daily basis.

Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer is essential. Everyday brushing of the dog's coat is necessary to reduce shedding.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath should be on a weekly schedule.

Taking good care of your Old English Sheepdog is time-consuming and requires excellent grooming skills. If you don't have the time and skill search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shiny, long coat and dense undercoat protect them from water, cold, and warmth. This dense waterproof coat allows living outdoors in winter and summer. Their hair should be thoroughly brushed at least once a week. More hair care is needed during the shedding period. Particular attention should be paid to areas where the hair is prone to tangling, like on the legs. The comb must be done carefully to avoid dog hair tightening and injury. It is important that you always clean up the skin, not just the top layer, so you can remove any dirt or hair that gets stuck in the undercoat. Tangles are a real threat to Bobtails and can lead to skin problems. It is extremely difficult to remove them, and in case of strong tangling, the dog should be shaved. You should always remove dirt and hair from the ear canals. The beard and mustache should be washed occasionally to avoid discoloration. You must also remove the hairs between the toes. Some of the Bobtails are so drooling that their fur may become yellowish. If this happens, regular bathing is needed, especially after a meal. Another method is to use corn starch around the beard. After the corn starch is completely dry, wash it off. This also works if the dog has diarrhea. Like all other breeds, it is important to start grooming in puppyhood. By developing a positive and reassuring experience, grooming will be easier for both the owner, the groomer and the dog.
Shedding Level
How much do Old English Sheepdog dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Bobtail? Do Old English Sheepdog dogs shed a lot?
Old English Sheepdog dogs are heavy shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Be prepared for the daily vacuum cleaning. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Old English Sheepdog need a bath? How often should you give an Old English Sheepdog a bath? Can I bathe my Old English Sheepdog every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Old English Sheepdog breed hypoallergenic?
No
Old English Sheepdog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Old English Sheepdog has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Old English Sheepdog drool?
The Old English Sheepdog is a big drooler, so if you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, you should choose a dog from another breed. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool much more than others, just like the Old English Sheepdog.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Old English Sheepdog Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Old English Sheepdog dogs get along with other pets? Are Old English Sheepdog dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Old English Sheepdog dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Old English Sheepdog temperament with other people:
Old English Sheepdog dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Old English Sheepdog dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Old English Sheepdog temperament with children:
Old English Sheepdog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Old English Sheepdog dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Old English Sheepdog breed live with a cat?
Old English Sheepdog dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Old English Sheepdog good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Old English Sheepdog dogs get along with other dogs?
Old English Sheepdog dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Old English Sheepdog can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Old English Sheepdog breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Old English Sheepdog breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Old English Sheepdog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Old English Sheepdog dogs good office canines? Do Old English Sheepdog dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Old English Sheepdog is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Old English Sheepdog dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Bobtail temperament with senior people? Are Old English Sheepdog dogs good for elderly owners?
Old English Sheepdogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Old English Sheepdog As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Old English Sheepdog be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Old English Sheepdog is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Old English Sheepdog be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Old English Sheepdog be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Old English Sheepdog is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Old English Sheepdog be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Old English Sheepdog is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Old English Sheepdog be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Old English Sheepdog is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Old English Sheepdog be a boat dog?

Not really

Old English Sheepdog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Old English Sheepdog be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Old English Sheepdog is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Old English Sheepdog dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Old English Sheepdog Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Old English Sheepdog pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Old English Sheepdog breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Old English Sheepdog: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Old English Sheepdog have in a litter? How many puppies can the Old English Sheepdog breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Old English Sheepdog have? How many puppies can an Old English Sheepdog give birth to?
5-8 puppies

Old English Sheepdog Recognition

AKC Group
Is Old English Sheepdog recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Is Old English Sheepdog recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Sheepdogs section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Old English Sheepdog breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel Club

Old English Sheepdog Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Old English Sheepdog dogs have great intelligence.
  • Trainability: Old English Sheepdog dogs are easy to train.
  • Watchdog Ability: Old English Sheepdog dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Old English Sheepdog dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Adaptability: Old English Sheepdog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Old English Sheepdog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Old English Sheepdog dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Old English Sheepdog dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Old English Sheepdogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Old English Sheepdog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Old English Sheepdog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Grooming: Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
  • Shedding Level: Old English Sheepdog dogs are heavy shedders.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Old English Sheepdog is a big drooler, so if you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, you should choose a dog from another breed.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Old English Sheepdog's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthiness: Old English Sheepdog dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Old English Sheepdog dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Office Friendly: Old English Sheepdog is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Old English Sheepdog History

The Old English Sheepdog comes from the South West of England, from the early 19th century. About two or three hundred years ago, western England sheep farmers decided to create a tough, agile, intelligent shepherd breed. This is how the Old English Shepherd Dog, also called the Bobtail, was created. As with other flea herds, one of the basic requirements for the breeding of the Old English Shepherd Dog was to have a massive dog, as they were not only used for herding but also to protect the animals. In the 18th century, cattle and sheep were brought to the fairs by these herding dogs. In England, a luxury tax was imposed on the dogs of the thanes, and the owners of the common guard or shepherd dogs cut their dogs' tails to prove their simple origin. This is the habit of not paying taxes on herding dogs, and the dog's occupation was often indicated by the mutilation of the tail.

There is still much debate around the exact origins of the Old English Shepherd Dog. Some say they not only became from old-style English flock dogs but also from the Russian Greyhound and Bearded Collie. Others claim to resemble the Russian Shepherd Dog, the Ovcharka. This is possible as well since salesmen on the ships of their merchants could easily get Bobtails to the island.

Of course, with the change of fashion, breeding requirements also change. Today's breeding of the Bobtail is primarily aimed at making the dogs look even more beautiful, striking and elegant, which is why they prefer the longer, almost silky hair.

The Bobtail appeared in the United States at the end of the 1880s, where the dog was first owned by a craftsman named W. Wade in Pittsburgh. In the 1900s, the breed was only owned by five rich American families. This prompted a dog show supervisor to advise the jury of the New York 1904 Westminster Show that "dogs belong to the wealthiest Americans".

In 1904, Henry Arthur Tilley founded the Old English Shepherd Club of America. Tilley and his brother William Steeds Tilley played a pioneering role in the development of the breed standard. Many of their bred dogs can be found in the pedigree of the Old English Shepherd Dog Line.

The Bobtail was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. At the end of the 1950s, the breed was still popular with rich dogs. However, in the early sixties, the breed became a status symbol for the family animal. In the mid-seventies, 15000 dogs have registered annually; but this number fell later as more and more people came up with the extra costs and effort needed to keep the dog in the wonderful but time-consuming coat of the old English Shepherd Dog.

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  • Christine

    Feb 13, 2021, 1:15:20 AM:

    I have an OES who isn’t a heavy shedder and is also a service dog. I believe you have a very inaccurate description of them. These dogs are easily trained, by far the most loyal dog you will ever encounter, they are goofy, loving.