Old English Sheepdog

Description: Affectionately called the “Bobtail”, so named because of their lack of a tail. The Old English Sheepdog is an affectionately loyal dog, protective of those they love. A natural protector, they were originally the guardian of flocks and this instinct is displayed in their tendency to adopt young animals and children. Known as the “nanny dog” from Peter Pan, Old English Sheepdogs do not make good guard dogs. Type: Herding Dog

Height: 22 – 24 inches Weight: 66 lbs.

Colors: Shades of gray, grizzle or blue. Coat: Profuse but not excessive and a good harsh texture.

Temperament: Old English Sheepdogs are active, playful, clever. With Children: Yes, gets along exceptional well with children. May be too rambunctious for small children. With Pets: Yes, enjoys the company of others. Special Skills: Sheepdog and family pets.

Watch-dog: High Guard-dog: Low

Care and Exercise: Constant care is needed to maintain the longhaired coat of the Old English Sheepdog. Brush and combed thorough to the dense water proof undercoat at least three times per week. Clip out tangles carefully. Old English Sheepdogs can be professionally machine clipped every two months. Trim around the eyes and rear end. Not a lazy dog the Old English Sheepdog does have a casual approach to exercise. A leisurely daily stroll will prove sufficient motivation. Training: Gentle and consistent handling and training is the best approach.They can be mischievous if they are bored or lonely Learning Rate: Low, Obedience – Low, Problem Solving – High

Activity: Indoors – High, Outdoors – Very High Living Environment: A house with a fenced yard is essential. Old English Sheepdogs need an owner who is strong, confident and patient and who will dedicate time and energy to grooming of their coat.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia. they are also not suited for hot climates due to the heavy thick coat.

Life Span: 12 – 13 years Litter Size: 5 – 8

Country of Origin: Great Britain History: In early times they were known as just “the Shepherd’s Dog”. The exact origins of the Old English Sheepdog are unclear but the most popular consensus is that they were crossed with the Bearded Collie. Opinions agreed that the breed began to developed in the hands of the farmers in England’s West Country probably around 200 years ago where they were used to herd both sheep and cattle.

First Registered by the AKC: 1888 AKC Group: Herding Class: Herding Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 1), KC (GB), UKC