With their distinctive blue and white coat and bearlike appearance, the Old English Sheepdog captures attention wherever they go.
Often called the Bobtail or OES, these gentle giants combine playful energy with steadfast loyalty, making them beloved companions for the right families.
As a proud owner of this British dog breed for over a decade, I’ve experienced firsthand their remarkable intelligence and natural herding abilities.
The American Kennel Club recognizes them as excellent family pets, though their needs aren’t suitable for every household.
This guide explores everything from the OES temperament and training approaches to grooming requirements and health considerations.
You’ll discover why these shaggy dogs require significant commitment but reward owners with unmatched devotion and companionship.
Whether considering your first Bobtail or seeking to understand your current pet better, you’ll find practical advice from selection through senior care.
Old English Sheepdog Breed Statistics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Alternative Names | Bobtail, OES, Dulux dog |
| Origin | England (Southwestern counties) |
| Breed Group | Herding (AKC), Pastoral (Kennel Club UK) |
| Size | Large |
| Height | Males: 22-24 inches (56-61 cm) Females: 21-22 inches (53-56 cm) |
| Weight | Males: 80-100 lbs (36-45 kg) Females: 60-85 lbs (27-39 kg) |
| Coat Type | Double coat, long and shaggy |
| Coat Colors | Blue and white, gray and white, blue merle |
| Shedding Level | Moderate (but requires extensive grooming) |
| Grooming Needs | Very High (3-4 hours weekly) |
| Exercise Requirements | Moderate to High (1-2 hours daily) |
| Trainability | Moderate (intelligent but can be stubborn) |
| Intelligence Ranking | Above average (Ranked #63 in Stanley Coren’s list) |
| Good with Children | Excellent |
| Good with Other Pets | Good (early socialization recommended) |
| Watchdog Ability | Good (alert but not aggressive) |
| Guard Dog Ability | Moderate (imposing size but friendly nature) |
| Barking Tendency | Moderate |
| Heat Tolerance | Low (prone to overheating) |
| Cold Tolerance | High |
| Apartment Friendly | Moderately (needs sufficient exercise) |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Health Issues | Hip dysplasia, eye conditions, hypothyroidism |
| Average Purchase Cost | $1,800-3,000 (from reputable breeders) |
| Monthly Food Cost | $80-100 (premium food) |
| Grooming Cost | $100-200 every 6-8 weeks (professional) |
| Annual Healthcare Cost | $500-1,000 (routine care) |
| Recognition | AKC (1888), Kennel Club UK, FCI, UKC, CKC |
| Popularity | Ranked #72 out of 197 by AKC (2023) |
Personality and Temperament
Natural Disposition
The Old English Sheepdog (often called OES or Bobtail) brings remarkable intelligence and trainability to any home.
These shaggy dog breeds learn quickly but sometimes show a stubborn streak. I’ve watched my Bobtail master complex commands in just a few sessions when treats are involved.
Their playfulness lasts well into adulthood. My 5-year-old still bounces around like a puppy when excited.
This working breed maintains high energy levels that need proper outlets. Without enough activity, they’ll create their own entertainment—often at the expense of your furniture!
Loyalty runs deep in these British dog breeds. My OES follows me from room to room, always keeping watch.
Their protective instincts make them excellent family guardians without becoming aggressive.
The American Kennel Club notes their balanced temperament as a breed hallmark.
These intelligent dogs show incredible sociability with humans. They crave connection and don’t thrive when left alone for long periods.
My Old English greets visitors with enthusiastic jumps and wiggles, though his size can overwhelm small children initially.
Behavior with Family Members
With children, the Old English Sheepdog shows remarkable patience. Their herding dog background makes them naturally protective of kids.
My boisterous toddler can climb all over our gentle giant without issue. The Kennel Club (UK) regularly ranks them among the best family pets for households with children.
When it comes to other pets, early socialization matters. My OES grew up with two cats and considers them part of his flock.
Their herding instincts might lead to “bumping” smaller animals, but rarely with aggressive intent.
These dogs good with children typically extend their gentle nature to other household pets.
The bonding patterns with owners develop intensely. They form deep attachments and truly suffer during separation.
This breed wants to be where you are, doing what you’re doing.
Pet insurance companies often cover behavioral therapy for separation anxiety in this breed because it’s so common.
In family hierarchy, they accept leadership but need consistent boundaries. Without clear rules, they’ll happily assume they’re in charge!
Dog behavior training should start early to establish your position as pack leader.
Common Behavioral Traits
Their herding tendencies emerge in fascinating ways. Mine tries to herd family members during walks by gently circling and nudging.
The International Sheepdog Society notes that even without formal training, most Old English Sheepdogs retain these instinctual behaviors.
Barking habits vary widely. Some OES bark only when necessary, while others are quite vocal. My dog’s deep, distinctive bark serves as an excellent deterrent to delivery people and door-to-door salesmen.
Around strangers, most display friendly curiosity rather than suspicion. After initial excitement subsides, they typically settle down.
At dog shows, judges often comment on the breed’s approachable nature.
Their adaptability to new situations surprises many owners.
Despite their traditional role as a working dog, they adjust well to various living conditions when properly trained. The key is gradual introduction and positive reinforcement.
Care and Maintenance
Grooming Requirements
The iconic blue and white coat of an Old English Sheepdog demands serious commitment.
Brushing frequency cannot be overstated—daily is ideal, but at minimum three times weekly. I use a slicker brush followed by a wide-toothed comb to reach through the double coat.
Bathing should happen monthly, using products specifically formulated for heavy-coated dogs.
After bathing my OES, I spend nearly two hours drying him completely to prevent skin issues.
Professional dog groomers often charge premium rates for this breed due to the time-intensive process.
Hair trimming options range from the full show coat to more practical pet clips. Many owners, including myself, opt for a “puppy cut” that keeps the distinctive look while reducing maintenance.
The iconic Dulux dog advertising campaign always showcases the full, flowing coat that requires extensive grooming.
Eye and face care demands special attention. The hair around their eyes needs regular trimming to prevent irritation.
I clean my dog’s face daily with a damp cloth to remove food particles and prevent staining.
Nail, ear, and dental care complete the grooming routine. Their nails grow quickly and should be trimmed biweekly.
Banfield Pet Hospital recommends weekly ear cleaning to prevent infections in their floppy ears. Daily tooth brushing helps avoid dental issues common in the breed.
Exercise Needs
Daily exercise requirements are substantial for this large breed. A minimum of 1-2 hours of activity prevents destructive behaviors.
My Old English gets a morning walk, afternoon play session, and evening stroll to manage his energy.
They enjoy various activities, especially those that engage their herding instincts. Dog agility training provides excellent physical and mental stimulation.
Mine particularly loves playing fetch and swimming—activities that leverage their natural abilities.
Mental stimulation proves just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and new experiences keep their minds engaged.
Pet Smart offers a wide range of interactive toys specifically designed for intelligent dogs like the OES.
Exercise considerations change with age. Puppies need controlled activity to protect developing joints, while seniors require gentler options.
The Old English Sheepdog Club of America provides age-appropriate exercise guidelines for the breed.
Living Environment
Space requirements tend toward the generous side. While they can adapt to smaller spaces, they thrive with room to move.
A house with a yard offers ideal conditions for this large shaggy dog.
The indoor vs. outdoor debate has a clear winner—these dogs belong primarily indoors with their families.
Despite their history as a droving dog, they form such strong bonds that isolation outdoors can cause behavioral issues.
Temperature sensitivities concern many owners. Their thick double coat makes them vulnerable to overheating.
I monitor my OES carefully during summer months, scheduling walks for cooler parts of the day.
VCA Animal Hospitals warns that heat stroke risk is significantly higher in heavy-coated breeds.
Apartment suitability surprises many people. With sufficient exercise and training, they can adapt well to apartment living.
Many apartment-suitable large breeds lists include the Old English Sheepdog, provided owners commit to meeting their exercise needs.
Nutrition and Feeding
Recommended diet types should focus on high-quality protein and appropriate fat levels.
Purina Dog Food and Royal Canin offer breed-specific formulations that address common health concerns. I feed my OES a mix of premium kibble and fresh foods.
Feeding schedules vary by age. Puppies need 3-4 meals daily, adults do well with twice-daily feeding, and seniors may return to more frequent, smaller meals.
Consistency matters more than specific timing.
Food allergies appear relatively common in the breed. Many show sensitivity to chicken or grains.
Hill’s Science Diet offers limited-ingredient options that help identify and manage these sensitivities. My dog developed a beef allergy at age three, requiring a complete diet overhaul.
Weight management proves crucial for joint health. The Blue Buffalo feeding guidelines account for activity level and age to prevent obesity.
I weigh my dog monthly and adjust portions accordingly, as excess weight dramatically impacts their mobility and lifespan.
Training and Socialization
Basic Training Approaches
Puppy training milestones happen quickly with an Old English Sheepdog. These intelligent dogs grasp basic commands within days.
My OES learned sit, stay, and come before 12 weeks old. The American Kennel Club recommends starting training immediately when you bring your Bobtail puppy home.
Effective commands work best with consistency. Short, clear words paired with hand signals help this herding dog understand expectations. My approach combines:
- Positive reinforcement with treats and praise
- Brief, focused training sessions (10-15 minutes)
- Consistent cues from all family members
- Immediate rewards for desired behaviors
Addressing stubborn behavior requires patience. These sheepdogs occasionally display independent thinking—a trait from their working heritage.
My OES would ignore commands when distracted by interesting scents.
Firm redirection without anger works best. Dog behavior training experts suggest using high-value treats to overcome stubbornness.
Professional training options benefit many owners. Group classes provide valuable socialization alongside structured learning.
Private trainers can address specific challenges with this working breed.
The Old English Sheepdog Club of America maintains a network of recommended trainers familiar with the breed’s quirks.
Socialization Methods
Early socialization importance cannot be overstated. Between 8-16 weeks, puppy experiences shape lifelong attitudes.
My OES puppy met 50+ people during this critical window.
Puppy socialization during this period determines how comfortable your sheepdog will be in various situations throughout life.
Exposure to different environments builds confidence. I took my puppy to parks, stores, outdoor cafes, and busy streets.
The Kennel Club (UK) recommends exposing puppies to at least 100 different environmental stimuli before six months of age. My OES now handles new situations with remarkable calm.
Introduction to other animals requires careful management. Allow controlled meetings with vaccinated, friendly dogs of various sizes.
My blue and white coat puppy initially feared larger breeds but gained confidence through positive interactions at the dog park.
For homes with existing pets, scent exchanges before visual introductions help reduce tension.
Handling fear or shyness takes gentle persistence. If your OES shows nervousness, don’t force interactions.
My dog feared men with beards—we overcame this by having male friends offer treats and gentle attention.
Dogs Trust recommends counterconditioning for specific fears rather than using flooding techniques.
Advanced Training Possibilities
Agility and sport potential exists in abundance with this breed. Their intelligence and physical ability make them excellent candidates for competitive sports.
My OES excels at agility courses, navigating jumps and tunnels with surprising grace despite his size.
The International Sheepdog Society hosts events where these dogs can showcase their athletic abilities.
Therapy and service work suits their temperament perfectly. Their gentle nature and intuitive understanding of human emotions makes them excellent therapy dogs.
PetMD notes the breed’s natural empathy makes them particularly effective for emotional support roles. My neighbor’s OES visits a local hospital weekly, bringing joy to patients.
Herding trials and competitions connect to their heritage. Even city-raised Old English Sheepdogs retain natural herding instincts.
Mine attended a herding instinct test and immediately knew what to do with the sheep.
The National Sheep Association recognizes the breed’s continued value in modern farm settings.
Show training basics include stance, gait, and handling comfort. For those interested in dog shows, early exposure to examination and grooming routines builds comfort.
The distinctive blue and white coat requires meticulous preparation for the show ring.
Crufts Dog Show regularly features championship-quality Old English Sheepdogs with stunning presentation.
Health and Wellness
Common Health Issues
Breed-specific conditions affect many Old English Sheepdogs. Hip dysplasia tops the concern list.
My 8-year-old OES received early screening through PennHIP evaluation. Canine hip dysplasia affects many large breed dogs, but responsible breeders work diligently to reduce incidence through genetic testing.
Joint and mobility concerns emerge as they age. Their substantial weight stresses joints over time. My OES developed mild arthritis at age 6.
VCA Animal Hospitals recommends joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin from middle age onward.
I’ve found that maintaining proper weight significantly impacts joint health for this large shaggy dog.
Eye problems frequently affect the breed. Progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and cherry eye appear at higher rates.
Regular checkups with veterinary ophthalmologists catch issues early.
The thick facial hair of these fluffy dogs can hide early symptoms, making professional evaluation crucial.
Skin and coat conditions develop beneath that beautiful double coat. Hot spots, allergies, and fungal infections hide under dense fur.
Weekly thorough checks during grooming prevent small issues from becoming major problems.
My OES experienced seasonal allergies that caused skin irritation until we identified and removed the environmental triggers.
Preventative Care
Vaccination schedules follow standard canine protocols with additional consideration for lifestyle. My vet recommends:
- Core vaccines (rabies, distemper, parvovirus)
- Lifestyle vaccines based on exposure risk
- Leptospirosis for dogs with outdoor access
- Bordetella for social dogs attending dog shows or daycare
Parasite prevention requires year-round attention. Their thick coat provides perfect hiding spots for fleas and ticks.
Banfield Pet Hospital recommends monthly preventatives regardless of season.
I check my OES carefully after hikes, as his white portions of fur make ticks easier to spot than on darker dogs.
Regular check-up importance increases with age. Twice-yearly exams after age 5 catch developing conditions early.
Chewy offers reminder services for preventative care schedules. These high-maintenance dog breeds benefit from proactive rather than reactive healthcare approaches.
Dental health maintenance prevents painful issues and expensive treatments. Daily brushing with enzymatic toothpaste keeps their teeth clean.
My vet suggested dental chews as supplements to brushing.
Poor dental care links to heart and kidney disease in dog health issues research, making this seemingly small task critically important.
Lifespan and Aging
Average life expectancy ranges from 10-12 years. With excellent care, some reach 14 or beyond.
The Old English Sheepdog Club of America maintains health databases tracking longevity factors.
My previous OES lived to nearly 13, remaining playful though slower in his final years.
Signs of aging appear subtly around age 7-8:
- Gray muzzle (difficult to notice in their already light-colored faces)
- Decreased stamina during play and walks
- Longer recovery time after exercise
- Increased sleep requirements
- Less tolerance for temperature extremes
Senior dog care adjustments maintain quality of life. My aging OES benefits from:
- Orthopedic bedding in multiple rooms
- Carpeted pathways over slippery floors
- Steps to access furniture and cars
- Modified exercise routines with shorter, more frequent activities
- Senior-formulated food from Hill’s Science Diet
Quality of life considerations guide difficult decisions. Pain management, mobility, and continued enjoyment of favorite activities serve as evaluation metrics.
The Farmer’s Dog offers fresh food options that entice seniors with diminished appetites.
My approach balances medical intervention with comfort and dignity. Our senior OES still deserves joy, even as his body shows age.
Choosing an Old English Sheepdog
Puppy Selection
Reputable breeder identification makes all the difference. I spent six months researching before finding my OES breeder. Look for:
- Membership in the Old English Sheepdog Club of America
- Health testing documentation for hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and thyroid
- Clean, spacious facilities where puppies are raised in the home
- Willingness to answer questions and provide references
- Puppies that remain with mother until at least 8 weeks
What to look for in a healthy puppy goes beyond cuteness. My first visit to the litter involved careful observation.
Healthy Old English Sheepdog puppies should have clear eyes without discharge, clean ears, and pink gums.
The blue and white coat should appear clean, though not necessarily perfectly groomed. Avoid puppies with persistent coughing, lethargy, or visible parasites.
Temperament testing reveals crucial personality traits. The breeder should perform formal or informal assessments.
I watched how each puppy responded to new objects, sounds, and handling.
The AKC Marketplace recommends selecting middle-of-the-road puppies—neither too shy nor too dominant—for family homes.
My pick showed curiosity without fear when introduced to new situations.
Questions to ask breeders should be thorough. I prepared a list including:
- What health testing do you perform?
- How many litters per year do you produce?
- What socialization experiences do puppies receive before placement?
- What support do you offer after purchase?
- Can I meet the parents or at least the mother?
- What diet are the puppies currently eating?
A good breeder asks you just as many questions. Mine wanted to know about my living situation, experience with large breed dogs, and time commitment before agreeing to sell me a puppy.
Rescue and Adoption
Breed-specific rescue organizations exist nationwide. The Old English Sheepdog rescue network connects abandoned or surrendered dogs with new families.
Rescue sheepdogs often come housetrained and with basic manners already established. Dogs Trust and Battersea Dogs Home occasionally have this breed available in the UK.
Benefits of adopting an adult dog include knowing their full-grown size and established personality.
My neighbor adopted a 3-year-old OES whose previous family couldn’t manage the grooming requirements.
He arrived fully trained and settled into his new home within weeks. Adult Old English Sheepdogs often adapt quickly to new families due to their naturally social nature.
Integration tips for rescue dogs focus on patience and structure. Establish routines immediately but allow adjustment time.
My friend’s rescue OES needed two weeks before showing his true playful personality.
The American Kennel Club recommends keeping initial introductions to new family members calm and controlled.
Common challenges with rescues include separation anxiety and unknown history. Some may have missed crucial socialization periods.
Professional dog groomers often volunteer services to rescues, helping transform neglected coats into manageable condition.
Despite challenges, rescue Old English Sheepdogs often show immense gratitude and loyalty to their new families.
Cost Considerations
Initial purchase or adoption fees vary widely. Puppies from show lines cost $1,800-3,000 from reputable breeders.
Rescue adoption runs $300-600, including veterinary care and neutering. The AKC Marketplace provides general price guidelines, though costs vary by region and lineage.
Ongoing maintenance expenses add up quickly. My OES costs include:
- Premium dog food: $80-100 monthly
- Professional grooming (if not doing yourself): $100-200 every 6-8 weeks
- Regular veterinary care: $300-500 annually for routine visits
- Flea/tick/heartworm prevention: $20-40 monthly
Healthcare and insurance costs deserve serious consideration. Pet insurance companies offer breed-specific policies addressing common Old English Sheepdog health concerns.
My policy costs $65 monthly but covered 80% of emergency surgery that would have otherwise cost thousands.
The shaggy dog breed’s predisposition to certain conditions makes insurance particularly valuable.
Grooming and care equipment represents significant investment. I’ve spent over $500 on:
- Professional-grade slicker brush and comb
- High-velocity dryer
- Grooming table
- Quality clippers and scissors
- Specialized shampoos and conditioners
These tools quickly pay for themselves compared to professional grooming costs, but require time investment to learn proper techniques.
Living with an Old English Sheepdog
Daily Life and Routines
Typical daily schedule revolves around consistent routines. My OES thrives with predictability:
Morning:
- Early walk (30-45 minutes) for bathroom break and exercise
- Breakfast and fresh water
- Brief grooming session focusing on face and paws
- Downtime while I work (usually sleeping nearby)
Afternoon:
- Midday bathroom break
- Interactive play session or training (15-20 minutes)
- More rest time (these intelligent dogs sleep 12-14 hours daily)
Evening:
- Longer walk or play session (45-60 minutes)
- Dinner
- Family time indoors
- Final bathroom break before bed
Travel and vacation considerations require advance planning. Their size limits accommodation options.
PetCo offers travel crates appropriate for this large breed, though many hotels have weight restrictions.
I’ve found vacation rentals and pet-friendly Airbnbs most accommodating. Alternatively, Rover connects with experienced sitters familiar with high-maintenance breeds.
Seasonal care adjustments become necessary with their heavy coats. Summer brings heat sensitivity concerns.
My OES needs shorter walks, access to shade and cooling mats, and sometimes a shorter clip.
Winter typically poses fewer problems, though ice balls can form in their foot fur. PetMD recommends protective booties for snowy conditions.
Work-life balance with a high-maintenance breed presents challenges. I adjusted my schedule to accommodate my Old English Sheepdog’s needs.
Working from home part-time helps tremendously. Those with full-time office jobs might consider:
- Midday dog walkers
- Doggy daycare a few days weekly
- Staggered family schedules to reduce alone time
- Pet cameras for monitoring
Common Challenges
Shedding and home cleanliness battles never end. Despite being considered lower-shedding than some breeds, their undercoat still requires management.
My cleaning arsenal includes:
- Robot vacuum running daily
- HEPA air purifiers in main rooms
- Washable slipcovers on furniture
- Designated dog towels by external doors
- Frequent laundering of dog beds
Dog shedding management becomes a way of life rather than an occasional chore.
Drooling and mess management varies between individuals. My first OES barely drooled, while my current one leaves wet spots after drinking.
Keeping towels handy and teaching a “wipe your face” command helps. Bark Box includes washable toys that stand up to the inevitable slobber.
Space requirements and limitations must be honestly assessed. While adaptable to various homes, these dogs feel cramped in tiny spaces.
My 1,200 square foot house works because of the fenced yard. Without outdoor space, I’d need a much larger interior living area.
The Old English Sheepdog rescue network regularly sees surrenders from families who underestimated space needs.
Handling separation anxiety requires gradual training. Begin with brief absences, slowly increasing duration.
My OES struggled initially but now tolerates 4-5 hour stretches alone. Separation anxiety manifests through destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or self-harm.
VCA Animal Hospitals offers behavior modification programs for severe cases.
Enrichment Activities
Toys and games they enjoy tend toward interactive options. My OES favorites include:
- Puzzle feeders that challenge their intelligence
- Herding balls that satisfy herding tendencies
- Tug toys for interactive play
- Durable stuffed toys for carrying around
- Frozen Kongs for hot days
Social activities for the breed should match their friendly nature. Herding dogs typically enjoy:
- Dog park visits with appropriately matched playmates
- Structured playgroups with other large breeds
- Doggy daycare once or twice weekly
- Training classes for continued mental stimulation
- Canine companion playdates with friends’ dogs
Mental stimulation ideas prevent boredom in this intelligent dog breed. Hide treats throughout the house, teach new tricks weekly, or use food puzzles at mealtimes.
My OES enjoys “find it” games where he searches for hidden toys. DogTime recommends rotating toys to maintain novelty and interest.
Building confidence through activities helps naturally sensitive individuals. My somewhat timid OES gained tremendous confidence through:
- Basic agility dog training (even without competition goals)
- Nose work games that utilize natural abilities
- Meeting friendly strangers who offer treats
- Successful navigation of new environments
- Positive reinforcement for brave behavior
Remember that confidence-building happens gradually. Each positive experience builds upon previous successes, creating a well-adjusted, happy Old English Sheepdog.
FAQ on Old English Sheepdog
Do Old English Sheepdogs shed a lot?
Despite their shaggy dog breed appearance, OES aren’t heavy shedders like some breeds. They do require regular brushing to prevent matting.
Their double coat sheds seasonally, not continuously. Without proper grooming, loose hair gets trapped in the coat rather than falling on furniture.
Professional dog groomers recommend scheduling regular maintenance to manage shedding.
How much grooming do Old English Sheepdogs need?
Substantial. The blue and white coat needs brushing 3-4 times weekly at minimum to prevent painful mats. Full grooming sessions take 1-2 hours.
Many owners use PetCo or professional services for quarterly trimming. Daily eye and face cleaning prevents irritation.
This high-maintenance dog breed isn’t for those seeking a low-effort pet.
Are Old English Sheepdogs good family dogs?
Excellent. These herding dogs form strong bonds with all family members. They show remarkable patience with children and protective instincts without aggression.
The American Kennel Club ranks them among top family pets. Their playful nature continues into adulthood.
Early socialization ensures they integrate well into busy households.
How much exercise do Old English Sheepdogs need?
Moderate to high. This working breed requires 1-2 hours daily of physical activity. Walks, play sessions, and training fulfill these needs.
Mental stimulation proves equally important for these intelligent dogs. Without adequate exercise, behavioral issues emerge.
DogTime notes their exercise requirements decrease somewhat with age.
Are Old English Sheepdogs easy to train?
Moderately. Their intelligence helps them grasp concepts quickly, but independent thinking sometimes manifests as stubbornness.
Consistent, positive training methods work best. Short sessions prevent boredom.
The Old English Sheepdog Club of America emphasizes early training for best results. Many excel in obedience training with proper guidance.
Do Old English Sheepdogs bark a lot?
It varies. Some are quite vocal while others bark only when necessary. Their deep bark serves as an effective deterrent.
Herding tendencies may increase barking if not properly channeled.
Early training helps manage excessive vocalization. Unlike some smaller breeds, their barking tends to have purpose rather than being constant.
How much does an Old English Sheepdog cost?
Initial costs from reputable breeders range from $1,800-3,000. Breed-specific rescue organizations offer adults for $300-600.
Long-term expenses exceed purchase price: quality food costs $80-100 monthly, grooming runs $100-200 every 6-8 weeks if professionally done, and pet insurance companies charge higher premiums for this breed.
Can Old English Sheepdogs live in apartments?
Surprisingly, yes, with caveats. Despite being a large breed, they’re relatively inactive indoors. Sufficient daily exercise outside the apartment is non-negotiable.
Their adaptability makes them suitable for various living situations.
Dogs Trust recommends ensuring building regulations allow large breeds before committing. Noise considerations matter in close quarters.
What health problems are common in Old English Sheepdogs?
Several concerns affect the breed: hip and elbow dysplasia, thyroid issues, and eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy.
VCA Animal Hospitals recommends screening for these conditions.
Canine hip dysplasia occurs frequently in this large shaggy dog. Skin issues hide under the thick coat, requiring regular checks during grooming.
How long do Old English Sheepdogs live?
Average lifespan ranges from 10-12 years. Some reach 14 with excellent care. As a British dog breed developed for working, they generally enjoy robust health when properly maintained.
Hill’s Science Diet creates formulations supporting longevity. Regular veterinary care, proper weight management, and preventative healthcare maximize their years with you.
Conclusion
The Old English Sheepdog brings unmatched charm and companionship to those willing to meet their needs.
Their shaggy appearance hides a keen intelligence and loving heart. I’ve found my years with this working breed filled with joy, despite the maintenance requirements.
Living with an OES means committing to:
- Regular dog grooming sessions that maintain their iconic look
- Providing sufficient exercise for these herding dogs
- Understanding their natural instincts and channeling them positively
- Budgeting for higher care costs than average pets
Not everyone should bring home a Bobtail. Those seeking low-maintenance companions should consider other options.
But for families with time, space, and resources, few breeds match the Old English Sheepdog’s combination of playfulness and devotion.
As the Dulux dog has shown millions through advertising, these gentle giants capture hearts instantly and hold them forever.
The Kennel Club (UK) rightfully celebrates them as a national treasure.
