History of the Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog has one of the most enigmatic of all canine origin stories. There is evidence that the breed originated in the southwestern counties of England in the early nineteenth century, though it may have descended from the Bearded Collie, the Russian Owtchar, or another dog entirely.
Writings during the time of the breed’s supposed origins reported a dog used to drive cattle and lambs to market. Owners docked their dogs’ tails to indicate they were drovers’ dogs and to offer protection from the sharp hooves of the much larger stock animals. As a result, the dogs were often dubbed the “Bob” or “Bobtail.”
When the Old English Sheepdog first arrived in the United States in the late 1880s, it was welcomed by a Pittsburgh manufacturer by the name of W. Wade. By the 1900s, just five affluent American families owned, showed, and bred the OES. One show administrator advised judges at the 1904 Westminster Show in New York to “take plenty of time; the dogs in the ring are the property of some of our leading Americans.”
In 1885, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Old English Sheepdog. Henry Arthur Tilley founded the Old English Sheepdog Club of America in 1904. Tilley and his brother, William Steeds Tilley, were instrumental in the development of the Breed Standard that is used today by breeders and judges. Many of the dogs they bred can still be found in the extended pedigrees of today’s OES.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
A mature male Old English Sheepdog typically stands 22 inches or more at the shoulder, while females usually measure around 21 inches tall.
Male Old English Sheepdogs typically weigh between 70 and 90 pounds, with females slightly lighter at 60 to 80 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
The Old English Sheepdog is a well-balanced and sturdy dog, built for herding livestock and driving the animals to market. The breed has a strong, substantial bone structure that supports its well-muscled and solid frame. In terms of proportion, the breed’s body length is approximately the same as its height, displaying a compact and practically square silhouette.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The Old English Sheepdog has an unmistakable double coat, with outer guard hairs that are rough in texture and an undercoat that’s dense and waterproof. On the head, the hair is profuse, completely covering the eyes, but the hair on the ears is more moderately long and dense. The body is covered in a long, thick jacket, longer still over the hindquarters, and the legs are well-coated all-around. The hair has a harsh texture; not straight, but rather shaggy and without curl.
Old English Sheepdog Colors
|
Standard Color |
| Black & White |
ee |
| Fawn & White |
ee |
| Brown & White |
ee |
| Blue Merle |
ee |
| Blue |
ee |
| Grizzle |
ee |
| Gray |
ee |
| White |
ee |
| Blue Gray |
ee |
| Grizzle & White |
ee |
| Blue & White |
ee |
| Blue Gray & White |
ee |
| Blue Merle & White |
ee |
| Gray & White |
ee |
| Grizzle & White |
ee |
A Note About Color: Old English Sheepdog Puppies are born black and white without an undercoat. As they mature, the coat becomes hard in texture and lighter in color. A brown tinge may be apparent during the transition, but any brown (or black) in an adult coat is unacceptable.
Head
- Skull: The Old English Sheepdog’s skull is relatively large and capacious, rather squarely formed in every direction. The stop is well-defined as are the ridges over the eyes, but these should not be too abrupt.
- Expression: The breed’s expression is intelligent, alert, and endearing. The shaggy eyebrows, beard, and mustache contribute to its unique and charming appearance.
- Eyes: The eyes are oval in shape and set well apart. They may be brown or blue in color, or they may be one of each. Brown eyes are preferably dark, and blue eyes may be china, pearl, or wall-eyes. Eye rims may or may not have pigment.
- Ears: The ears are small, set moderately high, and lie flat against the head. They are covered with the characteristically shaggy coat.
- Muzzle: The Old English Sheepdog’s muzzle is broad, deep, and square, maintaining the same width from its base at the skull to the tip.
- Nose: The nose is large in proportion to the foreface. Color is usually black; however, blue dogs at birth will have slate-colored pigment.
- Bite: The Old English Sheepdog typically has a level or tight scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors.
Tail
Often referred to as the “Bobtail,” the Old English Sheepdog has traditionally had its tail closely docked. The purpose of tail docking was to prevent injury while the dog worked as a herder and drover of livestock, and to avoid taxes levied on dogs that did not work. The natural tail of an OES is bushy in appearance and is typically carried below the level of the back. It is often described as plume-like and gives the dog a distinctive, if nontraditional, appearance.
The Old English Sheepdog – What to Consider?
The Old English Sheepdog is known for its shaggy coat, sturdy frame, and adaptable disposition. These dogs are typically fun-loving and playful, but they can also be great guardians and protectors of the family. The breed’s signature coat, though beautiful, requires a serious commitment to keep it looking its best. The good news is that, while being large dogs, the typical OES can adapt well to suburban life as long its exercise needs are met.
Home Life
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
Reserved Outgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal Interest Maximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
Low High
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
Low High
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction
Old English Sheepdog Health
The Old English Sheepdog is generally a healthy and robust breed, but like all dogs, individuals can be susceptible to certain issues. Regular veterinary care, a healthy diet, and adequate exercise can help to minimize the risk of any health concern.
The average lifespan of the Old English Sheepdog is 10 to 12 years. Responsible breeders health-test their breeding stock to increase the likelihood that their dogs will enjoy long and healthy lives.
Potential Health Risks
Although generally a healthy breed, some OES can be prone to certain health conditions, including:
- Canine Hip Dysplasia: This condition is expressed by the malformation of the hip joint. Some dogs will exhibit pain and lameness on one or both back legs, but some will show no signs of discomfort.
- Cataracts: Cataracts cause opacity on the eye’s lens, resulting in blurred vision. The eye(s) of an affected dog will appear clouded. Cataracts typically develop in older dogs and can be surgically removed to improve the eyesight.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a group of eye diseases characterized by the slow degradation of the retina. Dogs become night blind early on and lose their daytime sight as the condition worsens.
- Hypothyroidism: This disease is caused by hormone deficits produced by the thyroid gland. Obesity, mental dullness, and erratic heat cycles are some of the symptoms. Hypothyroidism is often treated effectively with a daily thyroid replacement.
- Deafness: An inability to hear can present numerous difficulties for both dog and owner. Some forms of hearing loss can be treated surgically, but deafness is seldom curable. A deaf dog requires patience and time, although devices such as vibrating collars can improve everyone’s quality of life.
Old English Sheepdog Personality
The Old English Sheepdog is widely known for its friendly and affectionate nature. These dogs have a gentle and loving disposition that endears them to people of all ages. Their welcoming demeanor and warm personality make them an excellent choice as a companion. These playful dogs often display remarkable patience and tolerance, making them an ideal choice for families seeking a canine companion that can coexist harmoniously with children.
One of the standout qualities of the Old English is the breed’s playful spirit. These dogs retain a youthful exuberance well into adulthood, which means they can engage in playtime with children or enjoy an active lifestyle on the farm. Their boundless enthusiasm for games and outdoor activities encourages family members to stay active and engaged with their pets.
The breed’s intelligence is another distinguishing trait. Old English Sheepdogs are quick learners and have a knack for understanding and responding to direction. This makes them responsive to training, although they can display an independent streak at times. Patience and consistency are the keys to unlocking their full potential.
While their intelligence is evident, the OES is also humorous and its sometimes mischievous side should not be overlooked. Playful antics are typical of the breed and can bring a smile to the faces of those fortunate enough to share their lives with these dogs. Their shaggy appearance, including the distinctive beard and mustache, and expressive eyes only add to the dog’s comical charms.
The Old English Sheepdog’s herding heritage is still evident today. These dogs can readily exhibit their inclination to gather the flock by gently nipping at the heels of their family members, a carryover from their historical role as a livestock herder. These tendencies, though inappropriate at times, can be managed with proper training and redirection.
Old English Sheepdog Feeding & Nutrition
The Old English Sheepdog is a large breed with a large appetite. To support this dog’s overall health and maintain its impressive physique, it’s crucial to provide a well-balanced and high-quality diet throughout its lifetime.
Selecting the right type of dog food is the first step in ensuring a Sheepdog receives the necessary nutrition it needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health and moderate levels of fat are needed to provide a dependable energy source.
Carbohydrates provide energy too, and they also contribute the fiber that is important for digestive health. Feeding a diet that includes healthy carbohydrates, such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, or whole grains, is crucial.
The average adult Old English Sheepdog needs from 2.5 to 3.5 cups of high-quality food a day. Still, portion control is a key aspect of good nutrition. The breed’s large size can make these dogs prone to obesity if overfed. It is important to adjust portion sizes as needed based on the dog’s age, activity level, and body condition. Healthy weight is essential to prevent a range of health issues and diseases.
Old English Sheepdog Training
Training the Old English Sheepdog should start as early as possible. Puppies are like sponges and can quickly learn and adapt to new commands and routines. Socialization should also begin during the puppy stage to ensure the youngster becomes well-adjusted around people and other animals, and in a variety of environments.
Sheepdogs are well-known for their intelligence and eager-to-please nature. This combination makes them highly trainable and a pleasure to work with. However, their independent streak can appear as occasional stubbornness and present some interesting challenges.
Consistency in training is essential, as is establishing clear rules and boundaries. It is important for all members of the family to interact with the OES consistently. This helps to prevent confusion and it reinforces the desired behaviors. Basic obedience training is a must, and leash training and recall training are important for dogs that spend time in public settings.
The Old English Sheepdog can be sensitive, so patience is crucial. Avoiding harsh training methods and punishment is essential, as these can damage the dog’s trust and its willingness to learn. Instead, using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and toys, is advisable.
Old English Sheepdog Exercise
Exercise is a fundamental component of caring for an Old English Sheepdog. These lovable, shaggy dogs have boundless energy and require regular physical activity to maintain their overall health and happiness.
Exercise Expectations
| Energy Level |
Moderate |
| Exercise Requirements |
2 Hours/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation |
The Old English Sheepdog is a large and active breed known for its agility and strength. These dogs have a history of herding and working long hours, and this legacy has left a mark on their exercise needs. Providing them with at least two hours of exercise each day is crucial for their well-being.
Exercise is essential for maintaining the physical fitness of an OES. These dogs require regular activity to keep their muscles toned and their joints healthy. Exercise helps to prevent obesity and other health-related issues common in many dogs today. Anything from walking and running to participating in a Herding or Agility Trial can be a great way for the dog to remain healthy and fit.
In addition to physical exercise, Sheepdogs need plenty of mental stimulation each day. These intelligent dogs thrive on activities that challenge their minds, so interactive games, puzzles, and obedience training can provide the kind of mental exercise that prevents boredom and destructive behaviors.
Due to the breed’s thick coat, exercising in hot weather can be challenging for the Old English Sheepdog. Providing plenty of fresh water and offering shorter walks are recommended whenever it is hot outside. Otherwise, when temperatures drop, the OES is generally well protected for the cold weather.
Old English Sheepdog Grooming
The Old English Sheepdog is renowned for its iconic shaggy look, but the breed’s signature coat requires regular attention. These happy herding dogs are heavy shedders, so grooming can be challenging.
Grooming Expectations
| Coat Type |
Profuse, Shaggy, Hard Texture |
| Grooming Requirements |
Daily Brushing, Occasional Bathing, Routine Ear Cleaning, Periodic Nail Trimming, Regular Tooth Brushing |
Brushing is a fundamental aspect of caring for the Old English Sheepdog. The breed’s double coat consists of a soft, insulating undercoat and a longer, coarse outer coat. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling. It should be done daily, if possible, or at least three times a week.
Bathing an OES should be done as needed, typically every 6-8 weeks or when the dog gets especially dirty. Because the coat is dense, it’s important to make sure the dog is completely dry after a bath to avoid any skin issues from developing.
Because the Sheepdog’s eyes are partially obscured by the hair, it’s important to ensure the eyes are kept clean and free from discharge. Trimming the hair around the eyes is advisable.
At least once a month, the nails of the OES should be trimmed, and the hair between the paws should be trimmed as well. Additionally, the ears should be checked weekly for signs of dirt, redness, or a strong odor that requires immediate attention to prevent infection.
Living with an Old English Sheepdog
Living with an Old English Sheepdog is a delightful adventure filled with love, laughter, and a healthy dose of playful antics. The breed’s iconic appearance, affectionate disposition, and intelligence make these dogs wonderful additions to families that are willing to invest in the dog’s care. OES return the favor by offering companionship, security, and a distinctive charm that’s hard to ignore.
The breed’s appearance is instantly recognizable, with its profuse, shaggy, coat and intelligent expression. The distinctive appearance of the OES often draws attention and elicits compliments from admirers. However, this gorgeous appearance needs regular attention and maintenance, so grooming is a challenge that needs to be considered.
The Old English Sheepdog thrives on human interaction and is known for forming deep emotional bonds with family members. The loving nature of this breed can make them an excellent choice as a canine companion. Despite their size, OES exude playfulness instead of intimidation, and they maintain their youthful exuberance and vitality well into adulthood.
The breed is known for its loyalty. These dogs are natural watchdogs, alerting their families to any unusual sounds or strangers. Typically sociable and friendly, with both friends and other pets, they often welcome invited guests warmly. This can make the their presence an asset at social gatherings and family events.
The Old English Sheepdog’s shaggy coat is well-suited for colder climates, but it can make the breed prone to overheating in hot weather. Adaptability to different climates can be achieved with appropriate grooming, providing shade and water in hot weather, and ensuring the coat is properly maintained year-round. While these dogs do well in larger homes with access to a yard where they can exercise and play, many can adapt to apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met.
