Website design By BotEap.comThe Old English Sheepdog is a large dog, standing 20 to 24 inches tall and weighing over 60 pounds, with some weighing up to 100 pounds. They have a shaggy coat, which is thicker around the hind legs, with a waterproof, almost soft underside. The hair on your head often covers or shields your eyes, much like a pair of natural sunglasses. They are gray to blue mixed with large amounts of white, they can also be brown, but this is not the norm. It is a strong dog, with great resistance, and its general musculature shows it. Some have docked tails, but the ones that don’t have an abundant appearance of feathers. The main body is quite short, wide and muscular. They have the look of a dog you could instantly fall in love with.

Website design By BotEap.comHistory. As its name suggests, the Old English Sheepdog was originally bred in the 18th century as a sheep herding dog that could also protect the flock from predator attacks, most commonly foxes. Shepherds used to have their tails docked to prevent entanglement, to prevent any predators from getting hooked, and for general cleanliness. Some puppies of the breed are actually born tailless or very short, which also encouraged docking of those with tails. It was also common for farmers to shear the dog along with the sheep and use its abundant hair to make blankets, clothing, cushions, and the like. Fame came to this breed in the 1980s when a company used one in its advertising campaign, earning it the nickname Dulux dog.

Website design By BotEap.comTemper. The Old English Sheepdog has a temperament that is somewhat typical of many herding dogs. He is sociable, friendly, playful, intelligent, faithful, and protective, to name just a few of his character traits. They love to be with family and play well with children. Care should be taken when playing as they get fully involved and can give a hint about the heat. Given their size, weight, and strength, it’s a good idea to supervise play when it comes to young children. If the dog insults a family member, it would be very unhappy, so it is fair to both the family and the dog to ensure safe playtime. One thing to keep in mind is that as they were originally bred as herding dogs and their instincts run deep, there is a chance that they will try to herd children. If nothing else it would be fun to watch.

Website design By BotEap.comHealth problems. Generally, the Old English Sheepdog does not present serious genetic problems; they have the common problem of hip dysplasia. His minor problems are. Cataracts and Entropion. Entropian is when the eyelid curves towards the eye; this, of course, can cause severe eye irritation and should be corrected by a veterinarian.

Website design By BotEap.comCleanliness. Are you ready for this? It was just a joke. Aside from needing better and slightly different tools, the Old English Sheepdog’s grooming is quite similar to that of other dogs. They should be brushed 1 to 3 times a week, starting with a comb-like tool; either a comb to remove knots or a rake (a dog grooming rake, not a garden rake). Once the dogs coat has become uneven and the knots have been removed, a normal brushing will suffice, as a general rule. Cutting your hair probably means a trip to the salon, since it’s about as bad as shearing sheep.

Website design By BotEap.comLife conditions. Although the Old English Sheepdog breed has a thick, luxurious coat, they cannot be kept outdoors in cold climates. They enjoy the normal warm home and bed, just like all of us. Care should be taken though, as you don’t want to cover them to get too hot, although items should be discarded if they are too hot.