Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdog Facts

Old English Sheepdog Information

Old English Sheepdog Description:

Old English Sheepdog Care & Grooming:

Old English Sheepdog Health Problems:

Group:	Herding
Size:	Large
Life Span:	10-12 years
Height:	Male: 22-25 inches
	Female: 21-24 inches
Weight:	Male: 70-90 lbs
	Female: 60-80 lbs

Coat :	Outercoat is hard and shaggy. Undercoat is soft and waterproof
Gait :	Free and effortless
Color(s) :	Different shades of blue, gray or grizzle
Living Area :	Any
Hair Length:	Long
Exercise Need :	Daily long walk and jog
Recognized By :	(CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (UKC) United Kennel Club (KCGB) Kennel Club of Great Britain (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (ANKC) Australian National Kennel Council (NKC) National Kennel Club (NZKC) New Zealand Kennel Club (APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	19th Century
Place of Origin :	England
Todays Use :	Companion Dog
Originally Used :	Sheep and Cattle Herding
Other Name :	OES, Bob

The origin of the Old English Sheepdog lies in England. Although the exact origin of the breed is unknown, it is believed to be a result of cross-breeding between several breeds such as the Poodle, Deerhound, Briard, Scotch Bearded Collie and the Bergamasco. Earlier, the breed was known as the Shepherd’s Dog and was primarily used for herding cattle and taking them to market. It was also called the bobtailed sheep dog because of its characteristic bob tail. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1888.

The OES is a medium sized dog with a well built, square frame. It has a proportionate head; medium sized eyes which are dark brown or blue in color; medium sized ears which are carried close to the head; a black nose with flared nostrils; a short, well filled muzzle; taut lips with teeth which meet in scissors or level bite. This breed either has a naturally bobbed tail or is docked to give it one. The tail is well feathered is carried gaily over the back. It has short legs which straight and slightly square in appearance with small, well padded feet. It has a long outercoat which is hard in texture and shaggy in appearance, and a soft and waterproof undercoat. The color of the coat can be different shades of blue, gray, grizzle; may be with white markings.

The Old English Sheepdog is a friendly and cheerful breed. It takes time to mature and can be clownish at times. It is great with kids as well as other pets including dogs. It is friendly with strangers. However, it has strong protective instincts and can sense danger, which makes it a very good watchdog. It is an obedient breed which is easy to train. When sufficiently exercised, it is well suited to an apartment life but is more comfortable in at least an average sized yard.

The OES is an average shedder. However, the long coat of the breed needs excessive grooming. The coat needs to be brushed at least 3-4 times a week to prevent matting or tangling of the coat. Its coat needs to be trimmed regularly throughout the year, especially the hair around the eyes, ears and paws. It should be bathed only when necessary and must be dried properly after each bath. Its eyes and ears should be cleaned properly to avoid any infection.

It is a working dog which needs to be kept busy. Daily walks are essential to keep the dog healthy both physically and mentally. These need to be supplemented with jogging or running an open area to release the pent up energy of the dog. It is sensitive to very high temperature so should be adequately protected.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The Old English Sheepdog is prone to some health issues like hip Dysplasia, Cataract, Deafness, Diabetes, Skin allergies, Cancer etc.

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