Old English Sheepdog: A Gentle Giant in a Shaggy Coat
Ever since I first saw an Old English Sheepdog, I’ve been fascinated by their unique appearance and gentle nature. Their shaggy coats, endearing expressions, and characteristic “bear shuffle” make them a truly captivating breed. After careful research and preparation, I welcomed an Old English Sheepdog into my life – and what a joyful experience it’s been!
What is an Old English Sheepdog?
The Old English Sheepdog (or OES) is a large, herding breed originally used for driving cattle and sheep to market. They are known for their distinctive thick double coat, often obscuring their eyes, and rolling, almost bear-like gait. Their history is somewhat unclear, but they likely descend from other European herding breeds.
Old English Sheepdog Temperament: More Than Just a Furry Friend
The OES is often described as gentle, playful, devoted, and even a little clownish. They deeply love their families and crave companionship. While they possess a strong herding instinct, they channel this towards their families, acting with a protective yet good-natured attitude.
My Old English Sheepdog is one of the most affectionate dogs I’ve ever known. He loves greeting me with full-body wiggles and is happiest when he’s by my side. His playful side emerges through his comical antics, always ensuring a laugh!
Is an Old English Sheepdog Right for Me?
While incredibly charming, OESs aren’t the right fit for everyone. Consider:
- Living Environment: OES are big dogs! They’re not ideal for tiny apartments, ideally needing a fenced yard to play in.
- Grooming Needs: Their long, thick coat requires intensive grooming, including regular brushing and occasional professional visits.
- Exercise and Play: Although mellow indoors, they still need daily walks and structured playtime to prevent boredom.
- Adaptability: OESs are adaptable to various living situations as long as they’re with their humans.
My Experience with an Old English Sheepdog
Living with an Old English Sheepdog is an absolute joy! I’ve learned a lot about their unique needs and quirks:
- Grooming Routine: Regular brushing is a must – my OES sheds a lot and needs professional grooming to keep him comfortable.
- Playful Personality: They become overgrown puppies with boundless energy, needing regular mental and physical stimulation.
- Socialization: Early socialization is key to prevent timidity around strangers, given their size and protective nature.
Caring for an Old English Sheepdog
- Grooming: Consistent brushing and professional care are needed to manage their thick coats. Prepare for shedding!
- Diet: A high-quality diet formulated for large breeds is important for their optimal health.
- Exercise: Regular walks and playtime prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Vet Care: As with any breed, routine vet checkups, vaccinations, and preventative care are crucial.
- Potential Health Concerns: Like some large breeds, they can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye issues, and bloat.
Raising Awareness about the Old English Sheepdog
Unfortunately, due to their intensive grooming needs, many OES end up in shelters. I believe in spreading awareness to help them find the loving homes they deserve. They can be wonderful dogs for the right people!
Should You Consider an Old English Sheepdog?
If you can commit to the care they require, adore their shaggy appearance, and seek a devoted and gentle giant as your companion, the Old English Sheepdog could be an amazing choice. Remember, responsible dog ownership means thorough research and a commitment to providing them with the best life possible!
Training an Old English Sheepdog: Patience is Key
While Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent, they can have a stubborn streak. Positive reinforcement training methods focusing on praise, treats, and making sessions fun work best for this sensitive breed. Here’s what I’ve discovered:
- Housetraining: OES pups can sometimes be slow to housetrain, requiring consistency and patience.
- Basic Commands: Teaching basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” helps establish a foundation.
- Socialization is Critical: Exposing your OES to various people, animals, and environments from a young age fosters confidence.
- Leash Manners: Their size and strength can make walks a challenge if they pull. Leash training from early on is essential.
My own OES is a bit of a goofball during training, but his eagerness to please eventually shines through. While slow to mature, his intelligence shows potential for more advanced training beyond basic commands.
Potential Challenges with Old English Sheepdogs
It’s important to be aware of some potential challenges with OESs:
- Destructive Tendencies: If bored or insufficiently exercised, they can become destructive.
- Strong Herding Instinct: They might try to herd children and other pets, needing careful supervision and training.
- Separation Anxiety: OESs don’t thrive when left alone for long periods, potentially leading to separation anxiety behaviors.
- Overheating: Their thick coat makes them susceptible to overheating in warm weather.
My experience has shown that with proper management and training, these challenges can be overcome. Investing time in your OES early on pays off immensely in a well-adjusted, happy dog.
Finding Your Perfect Old English Sheepdog
- Reputable Breeders: If getting a puppy, research breeders prioritizing health, temperament, and responsible breeding practices.
- Rescue Organizations: Many wonderful OESs are waiting for a second chance in shelters and breed-specific rescue groups.
- Meeting Your Potential Dog: Always interact with a potential dog to assess whether their personality is a good match.
FAQs
How much is an Old English sheepdog?
When searching for my Old English Sheepdog, I found that prices could vary quite a lot. Reputable breeders focusing on health and temperament typically charge between $1500 and $3000 for a puppy. While a significant investment, having a healthy, well-adjusted OES puppy from ethical lines is absolutely worth it in my opinion.
Do Old English sheepdog shed?
Be prepared – Old English Sheepdogs shed a lot! Their thick double coat means a constant presence of fluff around the house. I brush my OES daily, and he still leaves tumbleweeds of fur wherever he goes. While I adore him, it’s definitely something to consider; if a pristine home is your priority, an OES might not be the best fit.
Can you shave an Old English sheepdog?
While it might be tempting in hot weather, shaving an Old English Sheepdog is generally not recommended. Their double coat actually helps regulate their body temperature. Regular, professional grooming and a shorter “summer cut” (while still leaving enough protective coat) are safer for keeping your OES comfortable.
How big does an Old English sheepdog get?
Old English Sheepdogs are substantial dogs! My boy is fully grown and stands about 24 inches at the shoulder and weighs a hefty 90 pounds, which is average for the breed. They have a powerful build beneath all that fur, requiring strong handling, especially when they were bouncy puppies.
How to groom an Old English sheepdog?
Grooming my Old English Sheepdog is a significant commitment. I brush him thoroughly every day to prevent mats, which are especially prone to form in longer fur around the legs and belly. Regular professional grooming is a must! It takes hours from start to finish – I certainly respect groomers for their skill and patience!
Compare
Old English sheepdog vs bearded collie
Both the Old English Sheepdog and Bearded Collie are long-haired herding breeds. However, Bearded Collies are significantly smaller and generally have a higher energy level. Both breeds are known for being intelligent and affectionate, but OESs tend to have a more laid-back personality.
Old English sheepdog vs sheepadoodle
Sheepadoodles are a mixed breed, combining the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle. While both have the trademark shaggy coat, Sheepadoodles may vary in size and temperament due to their mixed parentage. They often have lower shedding than purebred OESs, but their grooming needs can be just as intense.
Old English sheepdog vs border collie
Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence and unmatched energy levels within the herding group. Old English Sheepdogs, while sharing a herding background, tend to be calmer and more mellow in comparison. Border Collies generally require even more intense exercise and mental stimulation.
Old English sheepdog vs golden retriever
These two breeds fall into very different groups; Golden Retrievers being sporting dogs bred for retrieving. Goldens are typically less independent and easier to train than OESs, while OESs possess a more protective nature. Both breeds are known for their friendly temperaments, but they have different energy levels and exercise needs.
My Life with an Old English Sheepdog
My Old English Sheepdog fills my home with laughter, love, and a whole lot of fur! While there are challenges, the reward of having such a devoted, goofy, and affectionate companion is immeasurable.
They might not be the right choice for everyone, but for those with the patience, commitment, and love of a large and shaggy presence in their lives, the Old English Sheepdog can be a truly extraordinary companion.