Despite the name sounding rooted in the pastures of England, it’s probable that the Old English Sheepdog has a very mixed heritage. It is believed that the Scottish and bearded collies, figure in the bloodlines, as well as sheepdogs from Continental Europe and Russia. Even the sheepdog part of their name may be muddled, as this breed traditionally had docked tails, which was done for hygienic reasons for cattle-droving dogs, whereas sheepdogs required their long tails for balance on their athletic turns.
The Old English Sheepdog has a shaggy, muscular appearance and a mellow nature, but don’t be deceived by this British dog breed into thinking they’re slowcoaches. They lull you into imagining they haven’t got much pace with their bear-like shuffle at the walk, but this pastoral breed is surprisingly nimble and require plenty of exercise.
Known for being patient, protective playmates, their hallmarks are the superb traits of watchfulness, courage, intelligence and kindness.
Although they have a bear-like gait when walking, at faster speeds the Old English Sheepdog can shift through the gears
Old English Sheepdog: fact file
Kennel Club breed group: pastoral
Size: large
Daily exercise: more than two hours per day
Coat: long; shedding
Colours: black and white, blue and white, blue grey and white, grey, grey and white. Eyes are often hidden beneath its profuse fringe, but may be brown, blue or both.
Lifespan: more than 10 years
Bark: loud, with a distinctive toned quality that some says sounds like two pots clanging together.
Distinctive features: a profuse, shaggy coat, on strong, square-looking body. Moves with a bear-like roll at the walk; more agile at faster speeds. Small ears.
Temperament: biddable and good-natured; bold and faithful.
Things to consider: the shaggy coat may be the prime attraction for many Old English Sheepdog fans, but it needs regular brushing and thorough grooming right down to the skin on a weekly basis, using the appropriate dog grooming brush. Bear in mind, this may take up three or four hours a week. Many owners will clip the feet to keep them neat and prevent extensive matting. Be prepared to spend for grooming services at your local parlour, or become an expert at grooming your dog at home.
As this is a large dog, he’ll need a large breed puppy food for the first 18 months or so, as well as one of the best large dog beds for comfortable kip.
Training: typically an intelligent breed, the Old English Sheepdog has a biddable temperament and learns commands easily. They can be a little more stubborn than some of the pastoral breeds, so reward them with training treats, and make their training sessions short and varied to keep them enthused.
Complete Guide To Old English Sheepdogs
Using interviews with several top Old English Sheepdog breeders, this books takes an in-depth look at what it really takes to successfully live with, raise, and train an Old English Sheepdog.
You may also enjoy reading…
Guardians of the flock, herders and heelers – the 39 pastoral dog breeds with different looks, coats and missions
All about the Belgian Shepherd dog quartet: do you know a Malinois from a Laekenois?
Who’s a clever dog? The 7 smartest dog breeds in the world
All about Australian Shepherds
Hounds come in all shapes and sizes (just don’t call them dogs…)
10 British dog breeds everyone should own (at least one at some point in life)
Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Subscribe today and enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus unlimited website access and digital versions of the magazine dating back to September 2012.
