Old English Sheepdog

Family: livestock, herding

Origin: England

Date of Origin: 1800s

Breed For: sheep herding

Lifespan:

Recently Used For: herding trials

Avg Size of Male: Height: 22+ Weight: 70-90

Avg Size of Female: Height:21+ Weight: 60-80

Temperament:

The amiable Old English is jolly but gentle. At home, it is a well-mannered house pet that often amuses its family with comical antics. It thrives on human companionship and is very much a homebody. It is extremely devoted to its family and protective of family members, tending children as flock members. It is friendly toward strangers. Some can be headstrong.

History:

The Old English sheepdog originated in the west of England, possibly from the bearded collie or Russian owtcharka. The breed was the answer to the need for a strong dog capable of defending the flocks and herds from the wolves that existed at one time in England. By the middle of the 19th century, these dogs were used mainly to drive cattle and sheep to market. As working dogs, they were exempt from dog taxes, but their tails had to be docked as proof of their occupation. This custom continues in modern times and has led to their nickname "bobtail." The breed was first exhibited in the late 1800s, and by the early 1900s the breed was a popular show exhibit. The Old English was recognized by the AKC in 1905. Early Old English sheepdogs could be brown, but were later restricted to shades of gray with white. Although the modern bobtail is very similar to the early specimens, it has a more profuse coat and compact body. The breed's popularity as a pet grew slowly, until the 1970s when it became a favorite media animal. Its popularity exploded, with pet owners wanting an exotic but lovable mop. Since that time, its numbers have gradually declined, but the OES still remains a well-known breed. It is now more often seen as a pet or show dog than as a working dog.

Upkeep:

The Old English sheepdog needs daily exercise, either a moderate to long walk or a vigorous romp. It particularly enjoys herding. It can live outside only in temperate to cool climates, but it is strongly advised that this breed have access to the house or indoor quarters because it thrives on togetherness. Its coat needs brushing or combing every other day, or it may form mats. It may tend to track in debris.

Health:

Major concerns: CHD#Minor concerns: gastric torsion, otitis externa, retinal detachment, cataract, deafness#Occasionally seen: none#Suggested tests: hip, eye, (hearing)#Life span: 10 – 12 years