Create Your Old English Sheepdog's Shop
Old English Sheep Dog Breed Summary
Comical, Intelligent, Athletic, Loving and Affectionate
As their names may suggest, these dogs are a fairly old breed native to the UK, and are also considered to be one of the most iconic breeds in the country. Additionally, they have very affectionate and loyal personalities, which in turn means that they make lovely pets. Their popularity has spread beyond the borders of the UK and they now make fantastic pets all over the world!
However, because they love us hoomans so much, they are prone to developing separation anxiety, which means at least one person needs to stay home for most of the day so that they can get all the love and attention that they deserve!
Fun Fact: Seen a Dulux advert recently? - Yes, that's an Old English Sheepdog that you're looking at!
| Kennel Club Group | Pastoral |
| Lifespan | 10 - 12 Years |
| Height (at the withers) | Males and Females 56cm - 61cm |
| Weight | Males and Females 29.5kg - 30.5kg |
| Coat | Harsh and Shaggy Hair, Covering The Whole Body. Also a Dense and Weather-Resistant Undercoat |
| Colour | Black & White, Blue & White, Blue Grey & White, Grey, Grey & White |
| Eye colour | Dark or Two Blue Eyes |
| Common health issues | Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA), Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD), Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Congenital deafness, Slipping Kneecap (Patellar luxation), Popping Hock, Portosystemic shunt, Immune mediated haemolytic anaemia, Entropion, Uveodermatological syndrome, Osteochondrosis of the shoulder, Distichiasis, Crystal and stone formation in the bladder, Urinary incontinence in spayed females if spaying is performed too early, Cancer, Cataracts, Osteochondritis dissecans |
| Other Names | OES, Bobtail, Bob |
This breed are incredibly easy-going and paired with their bumbling characters, they really are comical looking pooches! Old English Sheep Dogs love the comfort of home life and being around their hoomans – who can expect grooming to last up to four hours a week! They are a very intelligent and athletic breed and are often seen in obedience, agility and herding contests. They are extremely adaptable and you may be surprised to know that they cope well living in apartments, so long as they get plenty of walkies! Due to their love for their families, they often suffer from separation anxiety if left by themselves for too long. They get on incredibly well with other animals; whether that be a cat, a dog or a hamster!
Old English Sheep Dogs have rather an unknown history, though there is evidence that they originated in Southwestern Britain in the early 19th century. Many speculate that their ancestors may include the Scottish Bearded Collie or even a Russian Owtchar. It was when they first entered the USA in the late 1880’s that the breed became more noticeable. In 1904, a man named William Tilley and his brother, Henry Tilley, founded the dogs club and went on to creating a breed standard. They became status symbols among the rich families of the USA! However, by the 1960’s these dogs were seen as much more of a family pet.