Old English Sheepdogs

Appearance:

Body: Short, compact, sturdy, wider in the rear, well-balanced, deep, full brisket, well-sprung ribs, and well-boned, with shoulders lower than loins and a characteristic rolling gait.

Coat: Shaggy, abundant, and hard, with a waterproof undercoat (sometimes removed by the groomer). The coat insulates them from both cold and hot weather conditions.

Color: Gray, grizzle, blue, blue merle.

Ears: Medium size, moderately covered with hair, and carried flat against the sides of the head.

Eyes: Brown, blue or wall-eyes (one of each), wide set, and expressively intelligent.

Feet: Small and round with well-arched toes and thick, round pads.

Head: Large and arched with a prominent stop, square muzzle and distinctive black nose with wide open nostrils.

Legs: Forelegs are straight, strong, and well-boned, shoulders well laid back. Hindquarters are round and muscular with well let down hocks.

Neck: Long, well coated with hair, and gracefully arched.

Size:
Weight: 65 - 67 pounds
Height: 21 - 22 inches

Tail: Short and docked or a natural bob tail.

Behavior

Recommended for experienced dog handlers
Good with children
Shed year round but never profusely
Best suited for country living
Good-natured and trustworthy

The Old English Sheepdog is affectionate, comical, intelligent, non-aggressive, and good with children. He's boisterous and loving with a need for lots of attention and family interaction.

AKC Standard says, "An adaptable, intelligent dog of even disposition, with no sign of aggression, shyness or nervousness.

He is protective of his family ("flock"), obedient, and easily trained. As a sheep-herding dog he was responsible for rounding up any strays and coaxing them back into the herd. As a family dog, he will do the same thing by trying to keep you herded together. Whether you are in the house or out for a walk, you will likely feel him push against your side to move you closer together so he can keep a close eye on you and keep you safe from predators.

He will become easily bored if left alone for extended periods of time. Early training is important to control his strong demand for constant attention. Use positive encouragement, gentle correction of errors, lots of praise, treat-type rewards, and a pat on the back for a job well done.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Herding Group

Bred as guard dogs and drovers for driving flocks, primarily sheep, to market. As a working dog, he was exempt from taxes.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: He is an athlete in need of lots of room to run and play.

Grooming: Brush two to three times weekly to avoid tangles. Bath two to three times annually. Keep ear canals clean and dry.

Health

Life Expectancy: 10 - 13 Years

Possible Problems:
Allergies
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Skin conditions

Recommended Certificates: CERF - for the eyes
OFA - for the hips and elbows

Country of Origin

Great Britain - 1800s