Old English Sheepdog Breed
Dog Breeds
Old English Sheepdog Quick Facts
| Size: |
|
| Grooming Requirements: |
|
| Exercise Needs: |
|
| Good with Other Dogs: |
|
| Watchdog Ability: |
|
Introduction
Despite its name, the Old English Sheepdog, also known as the Bobtailed Sheep Dog, the Bobtail, the Old English or simply the OES, is not an old breed at all. It also is only partly English and is not a sheepdog. The breed was developed in western England about 200 years ago from crosses of English drover’s dogs and assorted European breeds. The Old English is an amiable, adaptable and smart dog of even disposition. He makes a wonderful household family companion, and despite his appearance is relatively easy to care for in all ways. Affectionately known as a gentle old soul, the Old English Sheepdog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888, as a member of its Herding Group.
The adult male of this breed should stand 22 inches or taller at the withers; bitches should stand 21 inches or taller in height. Mature adults normally weigh in the neighborhood of 60 to 100 pounds. The Old English should be profusely but not excessively coated, with hair of a good hard texture that is shaggy and free from curl. They shed heavily in the spring and require regular brushing throughout the year to prevent mats in their undercoat. Many non-show owners clip their dogs’ coats every few months to make them more manageable. The Old English Sheepdog can be any shade of gray, grizzle, blue or blue merle, with or without white markings. Any shade of brown or tan is highly objectionable and should not be encouraged.
The Old English Sheepdog is a fairly modern breed, dating back only to the late 1700s or early 1800s. A Gainsborough painting from which engravings were made in 1771 depicts the Duke of Buccleuch with his arms around the neck of what appears to be a fine representation of an Old English Sheepdog. It is believed that the Old English Sheepdog first developed in the counties of Devon and Somerset, and in the Duchy of
Old English Sheepdogs are a favorite image in Hollywood. Movies and cartoons portray this breed as everything from intelligent and hardworking, to silly and dim-witted. Their individual personalities can vary as much as their Hollywood portrayals: some sheepdogs are outgoing, others are reserved, some are silly while others are are serious. But all Old English Sheepdogs are loyal family dogs who adore their people and wand to be with them as much as possible. They
The Old English Sheepdog is covered in abundant hair from head to tip of the tail. They are large, muscular dogs, who, despite their heavy appearance and bear-like gait, are quite agile. The topline slopes upward and is one of the more important characteristics of the breed. The neck is long and arched, the chest is broad, the forelegs straight and small. The round feet point forward. The head is large and square and has
The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Old English Sheepdog Pictures and Old English Sheepdog images. Get an in depth look at the Old English Sheepdog and see the many things that this breed has to offer.