The Old English Sheepdog: A Lovable and Majestic Canine

When it comes to iconic dog breeds, the Old English Sheepdog, with its abundant coat and distinctive “bobtail” wagging, is instantly recognizable. This breed has a rich history that spans centuries and has captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide.  Join me as I explore the captivating qualities of the Old English Sheepdog and delve into its history, appearance, temperament, and care requirements. Get ready to fall in love with this lovable and majestic canine companion – I know I have!

 

A Brief History:

Often affectionately named the “OES” or “Bobtail,”  the Old English Sheepdog has a long and fascinating history.  The exact origins of this breed are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have descended from herding dogs in Western England.  The primary role of the OES was to help shepherds with driving and guarding flocks of sheep.

This breed is renowned for its exceptional herding abilities and adaptability to harsh weather conditions, which helped it quickly gain popularity and make its way into the hearts of dog enthusiasts all over the world

In South Africa, the Old English Sheepdog is commonly known as the Dulux dog – having been the face of the Dulux brand for many years.

Distinctive Appearance:

One of the most striking features of the Old English Sheepdog is its dense and shaggy fur which is also a luxurious double coat.  The gorgeous fur is typically gray, grizzle, or blue with various shades.  Their coat gives them an inviting and cuddly appearance plus it provides insulation and protection from the cold.

The Old English Sheepdog requires frequent grooming to prevent matting and ensure their fur is healthy and tangle-free.

This breed has a few distinguishing characteristics, one is its bobtail, which contributes to its unique appearance. In days gone by, the tail was docked for practical purposes, this is no longer the case and it is often left natural in many countries.

Temperament and Personality:

Known for their friendly and sociable nature, the OES is typically affectionate, and loyal, and thrives on human companionship.  They are often described as “gentle giants” due to their size and kind temperament.  Plus they are generally great with children and other pets, which makes them an ideal family pet.

Being descendants of herding dogs, Old English Sheepdogs usually retain their instinctive behaviors.  This will be evident when they attempt to herd people or objects.

As with most breeds of dogs, early socialization and training are essential, this ensures their natural instincts are channeled more appropriately for the family environment.

Care and Exercise:

In the Old English Sheepdog, you will find a wonderful companion, but it does mean some work for you too.

The OES requires regular exercise – this is crucial to keep this energetic breed happy and healthy.  You can expect to provide daily walks, playtime, and interactive activities such as obedience training or agility courses.  These activities are important for the Old English Sheepdog’s physical and mental well-being.

The beautiful dense coat demands regular grooming which means that brushing at least a few times per week is a must.  The brushing helps to prevent painful matting and keeps their fur in good condition.  In addition, you will need to follow a regimen of occasional bathing and trimming around the eyes and ears  It is important to do these things in order to maintain cleanliness and overall appearance.

Conclusion:

Overall the Old English Sheepdog is a remarkable dog breed that combines beauty, intelligence, and a loving disposition to make it every bit worthy of its great reputation.  With the iconic shaggy coat, gentle demeanor, and unwavering loyalty, the OES has captured the hearts of many dog lovers across the globe. Their grooming needs do require some effort but, the joy they bring to their families makes it all worthwhile.

If you’re seeking a faithful and charming furry friend, the Old English Sheepdog might be the perfect addition to your life.

FAQs

You may notice that many of the questions below have been answered within the article and it may seem repetitive.  The reason for this is that we are aware that some readers scroll straight to the FAQ’s without reading the article. 

Is the Bobtail Natural or Docked (Surgically Shortened)?

The bobtail of the Old English Sheepdog could be natural or docked, this depends on the country where it is bred and the breeding practices of that country.

If we look back in history we will see that the tails of Old English Sheepdogs were docked for practical reasons.  The reason for the docking was that it was believed to prevent injuries while working – as the tail could get caught or tangled in equipment used on the farm or even in the sheep wool.  Another reason for docking was to conform to certain show standards.

In many countries, however, and this includes the UK and parts of Europe, docking has been banned or restricted because of animal welfare concerns.  As a result, Old English Sheepdogs in these countries often have the tails they were born with intact.

The laws pertaining to tail docking do vary by country, so the acceptance of docked or natural tails differs.  In areas where docking is allowed, there are breeders who continue to dock the tails of Old English Sheepdogs for a variety of reasons, including breed standards or even personal preference.  It is becoming more and more common, however, to see Old English Sheepdogs with their natural bobtails all around the world.

The decision to keep the bobtail natural or have it docked is usually made by breeders and owners.  Their decisions are often guided by local laws and personal preferences.

Wikipedia contains information about which countries have banned docking, you can reference the information here.

Do Old English Sheepdogs make good family pets?

Old English Sheepdogs can make wonderful family pets because they are such friendly and affectionate dogs.

As with any breed, there are pros and cons to take into account.  when it comes to being a companion in a family setting. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages and considerations of having an Old English Sheepdog as a family pet:

Pros:

1. Affectionate and Gentle:  Known for their sweet and loving natures, this breed is typically great with children and enjoys being part of a family.  They naturally form strong bonds with their humans.

2. Loyal and Protective:  These dogs are protective of their family by nature and this makes them excellent watchdogs. Their mere size and formidable bark serve as deterrents to would-be intruders.

3. Playful and Energetic:  These dogs have playful and fun-loving natures which makes them perfect playmates for youngsters. Their abundant energy ensures they are always keen to be involved in outdoor activities and games.

4. Intelligent and Trainable:  Highly intelligent and trainable, the OES’s very quick learners.  They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.

5. Gets Along with Other Pets:  Being social by nature, the Old English Sheepdogs typically get along with other pets with ease.  This makes them adaptable to multi-pet families.

What an amazing breed – I am ready to go and get one for myself!  But, of course, there have to be some cons, here they are.

Cons:

1. Grooming Requirements:  Having a beautiful long and dense coat,  the Old English Sheepdog needs regular and consistent grooming. If a regimen is not followed, their fur easily becomes matted and tangled.  This is extremely painful for the fur friend so it is vital to do everything possible to avoid the situation

2. Space Requirements:  The OES is a large and energetic breed and will do best in homes with ample space, a house with a yard would be best.  Apartment living is not the best fit for this breed.

3. Shedding:  The Old English Sheepdog sheds quite a bit, more so during seasonal changes. The necessary regular brushing to maintain good coat health can help manage shedding, but you do need to be prepared for fur tumbleweed around the house.

4. Socialization and Training Needs:  This applies to any large and intelligent breed, commencing socialization and training early is crucial.  Keep in mind the natural herding instinct that the OES has, if they are not properly trained, this herding instinct can become inappropriate behavior, for example, herding family members or visitors to your home.

5. Exercise Requirements:  The exercise needs of Old English Sheepdogs is high.  The best family for this breed is one with an active lifestyle.  The willingness to provide regular outdoor activities is the right match for this breed.

Conclusion:

The OES breed of dog has the potential to make a perfect family pet.  They bring love, loyalty, and a playful spirit to the home.  It is important, however, that potential owners are willing to meet their grooming, exercise, and training needs. Given the proper care and attention, an Old English Sheepdog can become a cherished member of your family.

Do Old English Sheepdogs Bark A Lot?

This breed is known to be vocal dogs, they bark especially when they feel the need to alert their family to something.  They also bark when they are excited.

The dog’s personality, training, and environment also play a part in how frequently or intensely they bark.

Let’s explore some factors that could influence the barking behavior of Old English Sheepdogs:

1. Protective Instinct:  OES are natural watchdogs, which means they may bark to alert their family of anything they perceive as a threat or in unfamiliar situations.  The protective instinct of this breed can make them reliable alarm systems.

2. Socialization:  When proper socialization is introduced from a young age, it can help reduce excessive barking.  As can be seen in most breeds, a well-socialized Old English Sheepdog tends to be more confident which makes them less inclined to bark out of fear or anxiety.

3. Separation Anxiety:   Dogs are pack animals and need to be acclimatized to spending time alone.  Proper training which includes learning to spend time alone, will prevent separation anxiety and barking when the family is away from home. (These are short stints away from home, for school, work, outings etc., we do not encourage leaving any breed of dog alone at home for extended periods of time).

4. Boredom or Lack of Exercise:  If a dog does not receive enough mental stimulation and physical exercise, it may bark as a way to release its pent-up energy and alleviate boredom.

5. Herding Instinct:  As descendants of herding dogs, Old English Sheepdogs bark as a way to control or manage the movement of people or objects, similar to herding livestock.  It goes back to that early socialization and training, folks.

6. Training:  Being such a bright dog, the OES can learn when it is appropriate to bark and when to be quiet.  This can be achieved with consistent and positive training.  The barking tendency can be managed by teaching a “quiet” command.

Old English Sheepdogs are not excessive barkers by nature, but, they are dogs after all so it’s vital that they are provided with adequate mental and physical stimulation – in addition to training – this will prevent excessive barking issues.

When given early socialization and obedience training, the outcome is a well-behaved and less vocal dog.

Should you be keen to adopt an Old English Sheepdog, be sure that you are willing and able to provide them with the attention, exercise, and training required to ensure your furry friend is a happy and balanced member of your family.

How Intelligent Is The Old English Sheepdog?

This breed is considered to be highly intelligent.  Known for their sharp minds, they are quick problem-solvers, and willing to learn new things.  As herding dogs, their ancestors had to make independent decisions while working with livestock. this is sure to be the origin of their intelligence.

Here are some key aspects of the Old English Sheepdog’s intelligence:

1. Trainability:  OES are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please.  They are quick to understand commands and are known to excel in obedience training which involves positive reinforcement methods.

2. Problem-Solving Skills:  The great problems solving skills of the Old English Sheepdog can often be observed when they find ways to overcome obstacles or figure out how to reach a desired object.

3. Adaptability:  The intelligence of this breed assists them to adapt well to different environments and situations. As you can imagine, this makes them versatile companions for a variety of lifestyles and households.

4. Emotional Intelligence:  Also known for their emotional intelligence, the Old English Sheepdog can often read and understand the emotions of their family members.  As a result of their EQ, they are able to provide comfort and support when it’s needed.

5. Herding Instincts:  The ability to herd livestock requires a keen understanding of the animals being herded, this is where the Old English Sheepdog showcases its intelligence as part of their traditional role.

The intelligence of an Old English Sheepdog is an asset, and due to this intelligence, it’s essential to prevent boredom by keeping their minds engaged and providing regular mental stimulation.  Boredom in intelligent breeds of dogs can lead to undesirable behaviours which could include excessive barking and even destructive tendencies.

The combination of the Old English Sheepdog’s intelligence, affectionate and loyal nature, makes them an excellent choice for families who are looking for a fur friend and companion.  Mental and physical stimulation and quality time with their humans will ensure that the Old English Sheepdog thrives.

What Are Old English Sheepdogs Good For?

Old English Sheepdogs are a versatile and capable breed, historically bred for herding and driving sheep. However, in modern times, their roles have expanded beyond herding. Here are some of the things Old English Sheepdogs are good for:

1. Herding:   As the name suggests, Old English Sheepdogs are skilled at herding.  This is a natural instinct that causes them to effectively gather, drive, and guard livestock, in particular sheep. Farmer and herding enthusiasts appreciate the herding ability of the OES.

2. Companion Animals:  This breed is renowned for its gentle and affectionate nature and these attributes make them great family pets and loyal companions.   Houses that provide them with loads of love, attention and social interaction will provide them with an environment where they can thrive.

3. Therapy Dogs:  As you can imagine, therapy dogs need to be friendly and empathetic, which the OES certainly is.  This makes them very well-suited for therapy work.  Bringing comfort and joy to folk in hospitals, nursing homes, and other therapeutic environments.

4. Watchdogs:   In addition to being all that is shared above, the Old English Sheepdog also has well developed protective instincts coupled with a keen sense of alertness.  As a result, Old English Sheepdogs can serve as excellent watchdogs.  You can expect them to be quick to alert their humans to any potential intruders or unusual activities.

5. Agility and Obedience Competitions:  Truly the OES is a solid all-rounder.!  Their intelligence and athleticism gives them the ability to excel in agility and obedience competitions.  Also, eager to pleasure their owners, the OES makes good use of their ability to learn quickly and this combination makes them competitive in agility, obedience and related dog sports.

While Old English Sheepdogs have a rich herding heritage, their adaptability and friendly disposition have allowed them to thrive in various roles as beloved companions and working dogs in today’s society. Whether it’s herding, therapy work, competitions, or providing emotional support, these lovable canines bring joy and value to the lives of many people.

Are Old English Sheepdogs Aggressive with People or Other Animals?

Old English Sheepdogs are not typically aggressive dogs.  In fact, they are known for their friendly and gentle nature.  They generally get along well with people, children, and other animals, including other dogs.

As with any breed, however, individual temperament can vary due to factors such as genetics, socialization, training, and the environment they are raised in.

There is an adage, there are no bad dogs, only bad humans.  This rings true with every breed, there is so much out of the dogs’ control and so much in the human beings’ control (breeder, owner, rescue organization).

The following are important points to consider:

1. Socialization:  Early and proper socialization is vital for all dog breeds.  This includes the Old English Sheepdogs.  It is important to expose them to different people, animals, environments, and experiences – this exposure must happen from a young age – all of this exposure helps them to build their confidence and ensures development into well-adjusted and friendly adults.

2. Training:  As with socialization, training plays a significant role in shaping a dog’s behavior.  As this breed is intelligent and eager to please, positive reinforcement training methods is not an arduous task and will assist them to become well-mannered companions

3. Protective Instincts:  As already stated, Old English Sheepdogs are not typically aggressive, however, they may exhibit protective instincts with it comes to their family and territory.  This behavior is an instinct and should not be confused with aggression.   Proper training and socialization will ensure that they can differentiate between a real threat and a harmless situation.

4. Fear or Anxiety:  Aggression can occasionally be a result of fear or anxiety.  Our experience as pet sitters has revealed that anxious humans often have anxious dogs, this is not the dogs’ fault.

Humans need as much training as their dogs do, in our opinion.  It is up to you to ensure that your Old English Sheepdog feels safe and secure, this can help prevent any potential aggressive responses to stressful situations.

Confident humans make for confident canine companions.

5. Individual Differences:   Every dog is an individual, and the temperament can vary from one to another.  Just the same as humans.  There are Old English Sheepdogs whose personalities may be shyer or more reserved.  Then there are others who can be outgoing and social.  Responsible breeding practices and choosing a reputable breeder also contribute to a dog’s temperament.

Generally, Old English Sheepdogs are friendly and gentle companions.  Like any breed of dog, they benefit from early and proper training, socialization, and responsible ownership.  These are the keys to ensure they develop into well-adjusted and non-aggressive dogs.

Should you be keen to adopt an Old English Sheepdog, we recommend spending time with the dog, go as far as meeting the parents, if possible, do your best to gauge the dog’s temperament and ensure it aligns with your family’s lifestyle and needs.

Do Old English Sheepdogs Have Any Health Concerns to Consider?

Yes, just like all dog breeds, Old English Sheepdogs can be prone to certain health concerns.

While not all individuals will experience the issues listed below, it’s important for potential owners to be aware of any possible health conditions that can affect the breed.

Responsible breeding practices are very important to look out for as this can help reduce the prevalence of these health issues.

Here are common health concerns for Old English Sheepdogs include (remember, not all OES will suffer from these ailments listed below, it’s a guideline):

1. Hip Dysplasia:  Hip dysplasia is a common genetic condition in many large dog breeds and is found to be the result of genetics.  Sadly, this can affect Old English Sheepdogs.  Hip Dysplasia is usually due to the malformation of the hip joint, and it can lead to pain and mobility issues.

Hip Dysplasia usually affects dogs as they grow older.

2. Elbow Dysplasia:  Not unlike hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is hereditary.  It affects the elbow joint and can cause lameness and discomfort.

3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):  PRA is a group of genetic eye disorders that can lead to progressive vision loss and, even blindness in some cases.

4. Cataracts:  The Old English Sheepdog breed is are also prone to cataracts, this can impact their vision leading impaired sight.

5. Hypothyroidism:  Hypothyroidism is the result of the thyroid gland not producing enough hormones.  This can lead to health issues such as weight gain, lethargy and skin problems

6. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat):   This is potentially life-threatening, and it occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists.  Immediate veterinary attention is vital.

7. Skin Allergies:   Itching, redness and discomfort are typical symptoms of skin allergies and sadly, some Old English Sheepdogs may be prone to this.

8. Deafness:  This is not common in Old English Sheepdogs but deafness can occur, particularly with those who have excessive white markings on their heads.

9. Heart Conditions:  There are certain heart conditions, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, which can be seen in Old English Sheepdogs.

You can minimize the risk of these health concerns, if you work with reputable breeders.  The hallmarks of reputable breeders are those who prioritize health testing and responsible breeding practices.

As the owner responsible for your OES, it is up to you to ensure regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, proper exercise, and maintenance of a healthy weight.  All of these things can contribute to the overall well-being of an Old English Sheepdog.

If you’re considering bringing an Old English Sheepdog into your family, it’s essential to be aware of these potential health issues and discuss them with a veterinarian and a responsible breeder to ensure you’re well-prepared to care for your new canine companion.

What Is the Best Climate For An Old English Sheepdog?

This big, beautiful breed of dog can adapt to various climates, but they tend to thrive in moderate to cooler environments.

The Old English Sheepdog’s dense double coat provides excellent insulation, and this makes them well-suited for cooler temperatures.

An extremely hot or humid climate is not the best for the OES due to their heavy coat.  Living in such an area could lead to discomfort and potential heat-related issues.

Here are some considerations for different climates:

1. Moderate and Cool Climates:  Climates that are moderate and cool is where Old English Sheepdogs do exceptionally well.  Their thick fur ensures they are warm during the colder seasons and they enjoy cooler weather.

2. Cold Weather:   The fur of an Old English Sheepdog provides insulation against low temperatures.  Being naturally well-equipped to handle the cold, they may even enjoy playing in the snow.

3. Hot Climates:  Hot and humid climates are challenging for this breed as they are prone to heat exhaustion and heatstroke.  This is due to their magnificent but also very heavy coats.  Should you adopt an Old English Sheepdog and you live in a hot area, the following provisions are crucial:

~ ample shade,

~  access to cool water (minimum one large bowl per dog), and

~  avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

4. Air Conditioning:  It is essential for the comfort and health of an Old English Sheepdog to have access to air conditioning or a cool indoor environment.

5. Sun Protection:  In a very sunny area it is important to be mindful of sun exposure.  The breed is fair with their white coat and pink skin and this makes them susceptible to sunburn.  To help protect them it is advisable to apply pet-safe sunscreen and provide shaded areas to help protect them.

In summary, the Old English Sheepdog does best in climates that are moderate to cool, not excessively hot or humid.  Being a fair-complexioned breed, they require access to shade, water, and appropriate sun protection for their well-being.   It is also advisable to always observe your dog’s behavior and look out for signs of discomfort in different weather conditions to ensure they are safe and comfortable.

Do Old English Sheepdogs Require a Lot of Specialized Grooming?

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs require regular and specialized grooming.  This is due to their long and dense double coat.

Their luxurious fur adds to their charming appearance, and it requires consistent brushing and maintenance to keep it healthy and tangle-free.

Here are some key aspects of grooming for the Old English Sheepdog:

1. Regular Brushing:  Daily brushing is recommended for Old English Sheepdogs, especially during shedding seasons (fall and spring).  Frequent brushing helps prevent painful mats and tangles, removes loose fur, and distributes natural oils in their coat which keep it.

2. Bathing:  Frequent baths are not a requirement, however, to keep their coat clean and fresh, occasional bathing is necessary to keep their coat clean and fresh.

Be sure to make use of high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner to avoid drying out their skin and coat.  This breed can be prone to allergies and skin sensitivity.

3. Trimming:  Regular trimming is required, especially around the eyes, ears, and paws to keep these areas clean and prevent any irritation.  If possible, it is best to opt for professional grooming, this way your Old English Sheepdog will be neater in appearance and the groomer will be able to make sure your pup has healthy skin and fur.

4. Seasonal Shedding:  As moderate to heavy shedders, Old English Sheepdogs especially during seasonal changes, more frequent brushing during spring and fall, will help to remove loose fur and reduce the fur tumbleweed rolling around the house.

5. Professional Grooming:   Groomers will be able to tell you that Many Old English Sheepdog owners recommend regular visits for a thorough grooming session.  These sessions usually include trimming, nail clipping, and overall coat maintenance.

6. Check for Debris:   The fur of an Old English Sheepdog is prone to collecting debris and tangles during outdoor activities.  In the interests of their health and comfort, a regular check of the coat to remove any foreign matter (grass seeds, burrs etc) or tangles will keep them comfortable and the fur in good condition.

7. Bobtail Grooming:   The area around the tail should also be maintained regularly to ensure it stays clean and free of mats, particularly if the dog’s natural is left natural.

The Old English Sheepdogs grooming requirements can be time-consuming.  It is crucial to start the grooming routine early in their lives so that they become used to the process.

There is more than one benefit to regular grooming; it helps strengthen the bond between bond and owner and keeps the coat healthy, adding to a higher quality of life for the dog.

Prospective owners of Old English Sheepdogs need to be well prepared for the grooming commitment associated with this lovable and furry breed.

Does the Old English Sheepdog Shed a lot?

As can be seen in the question above, this breed requires a much higher-than-average commitment to regular brushing and professional grooming.

Due to their magnificent coats, the Old English Sheepdog certainly does shed a whole lot!  You can expect your home decor to include tumbleweed furballs breezing about – unless the regular brushing and professional grooming sessions are religiously taking place … and even then, there are no guarantees.

This beautiful breed is not suitable for a home dedicated to showroom pristine conditions at all times.

Do Old English Sheepdogs get along with other animals, cats for example?

Generally known for their friendly and amiable nature, Old English Sheepdogs can be expected to get along well with other animals, including cats.

That said, individual temperament and socialization plays a role in determining how well they will get along with other pets in the household.    Just the same as any other breed of dog.

Here are some factors to consider regarding Old English Sheepdogs and their compatibility with cats:

1. Early Socialization:   Early exposure really does help them learn to live peaceably and positively with other animals.  To give them a fair chance, the best approach is to introduce an Old English Sheepdog to cats from a young age.

Proper socialization is essential for all dog breeds, the Old English Sheepdog is no exception.

2. Temperament:  Different dogs (of all breeds) have different temperaments, just like humans.  Some Old English Sheepdogs may have a higher prey drive than others.  This can be a concern when introducing them to smaller animals like cats.  Given the right training and socialization, however, many Old English Sheepdogs can learn to be gentle and tolerant around cats.

3. Cat’s Personality:  The cat’s personality and previous experience with canines also matter.  Cats that are confident and have had positive experiences with dogs before are more likely to be accepting of a new canine fur friend.

4. Supervised Introduction:   All introductions to new pets (cats or dogs) should be done in a controlled and supervised environment.  This is true for an Old English Sheepdog or any breed of dog.  This environment allows for observation and intervention if required.

5. Patience and Training:   Keep in mind that both the dog and the cat may need time to adjust to each other.   Consistency in training and patience are key to creating a harmonious relationship between the two.

6. Prey Drive:  The Old English Sheepdog is not generally aggressive towards other animals, but they do retain some herding instincts, these may manifest as chasing behaviours.  To avoid this, proper training is important to help manage and redirect these instincts.

It’s important to understand that every dog and cat is an individual, and whether they can get along will depend on their personalities and previous experiences.  Some Old English Sheepdogs may become besties with cats and others could require more time and effort to reach the point of positive relationship.

When introducing an Old English Sheepdog to a cat, please to so with patience, supervision, and positive reinforcement.  Gradual introductions in a calm environment can help increase the possibility of a successful and peaceful future relationship between the two pets.

Are there any idiosyncrasies to consider when adopting an Old English Sheepdog?

Oh yes, there are some idiosyncrasies to consider with this breed.  While Old English Sheepdogs makes wonderful fur friends, they do have unique characteristics and needs which need to be taken into account to ensure a successful and happy family union.

Here are some idiosyncrasies to keep in mind:

1. Grooming Requirements:  As mentioned earlier, the Old English Sheepdogs’ fur is a thick double coat that requires regular and specialized grooming.

Potential owners should be prepared to invest time and effort into maintaining their dog’s coat to keep it healthy and tangle-free.  Keep in mind that tangles and burs, are painful for the pooch.

2. Exercise Needs:  Being an energetic breed, Old English Sheepdogs need regular exercise to live happy and healthy lives.  Outdoor activities such as playtime, walks, and even agility training are really enjoyable for OES.  The best family for this breed has an active lifestyle and/or access to outdoor spaces.

3. Herding Instincts:  Being descendants of herding dogs, the OES may exhibit herding behaviours, for example, trying to gather and control family members or other pets.  Ongoing training and redirection methods can help manage these instincts.

4. Socialization:  Early and proper socialization is vital for Old English Sheepdogs.  Socialization helps them become well-adjusted and confident in various situations.  Without this socialization, this breed can be somewhat reserved.

5. Separation Anxiety:  Part of the joy of the Old English Sheepdog breed is that they can form strong bonds with their families; the downside of that is that they may experience separation anxiety when left alone for long periods.  To get them used to spending some time alone, gradual training and methods which provide mental stimulation can help prevent anxiety-related behaviors.

This dog also does better in the companionship of their family, meaning, they are not suitable for families who spend extended periods of time away from home.

6. Heat Sensitivity:   The heavy coat of Old English Sheepdogs can make them sensitive to hot and humid weather.   Families who live in hot climates must take extra precautions to keep their fur friends cool and comfortable during warm months.

7. Playfulness and Energetic Nature:  The playful and fun-loving nature of the Old English Sheepdog is endearing, but it’s also essential to make sure they receive sufficient mental and physical exercise to prevent any boredom-related behaviors.

8. Size and Space Requirements:  Being such a large breed, the Old English Sheepdog needs plenty of space to move around comfortably.  They are not best-suited for apartment living, homes with ample indoor and outdoor space are ideal for this fur friend.

10. Professional Grooming Costs:  Regular grooming and visits to professional groomers can be time consuming and costly to the owner of an Old English Sheepdog.

Many of these idiosyncrasies are discussed in detail in earlier parts of this article.  They are repeated here in case you have scrolled straight to this question.

Knowing the pros and cons of the Old English Sheepdog can help you prepare for and ensure a successful adoption experience for both your family and the new fur friend.

We say this about every breed of dog, because it is true:  responsible ownership, early training, and a loving environment will contribute to a happy and well-adjusted furry friend.

 

We hope you have enjoyed reading about the Old English Sheepdog as much as we have enjoyed researching this beautiful dog.  If you have anything to add or ask, please let us know in the comments below.

 

Many thanks for stopping by!

Louise and Beth