Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdog Native Country

Great Britain

Old English Sheepdog Breed Description

Head: Strong and blocky. Capacious skull. Well-defined stop. Square, strong, truncated muzzle. Large nose.
Eyes: Wide-set. Dark color or walleye. Blue eyes are acceptable.
Body: Short and compact. Deep, full chest with well-sprung ribs. Shoulders well laid back. Legs with plenty of bone. Withers lower than the loin. Gently arched, stout loin. Strong neck.
Tail: Bobtailed or docked.
Hair: Profuse, hard texture, shaggy, free from curl. Thicker on the hindquarters than on the rest of the body. Soft, dense undercoat.
Coat: Any shade of gray, grizzle, or blue. The body and hindquarters are of uniform color, with or without small white markings on the feet (socks). The head, neck, legs, and underbody must be white. Any brown markings are faults.
Size: Dog: minimum of 61 cm. (24 in).Bitch: minimum of 56 cm. (22 in).
Weight: 25 to 30 kg (55-66 lb).
Group: Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)

Old English Sheepdog History

The ancestry of the Bobtail is disputed. Some believe this breed descended long ago from sheepdogs, including the Italian Mastiff (extinct), introduced by the Romans. Others believe the Bobtail is the result of crossing continental and English sheepdogs, such as the Puli and the Briard. Wherever he came from, the Bobtail has been around for centuries. A 1771 Gainsborough painting depicts this breed. The Old English Sheepdog was shown for the first time at the 1873 dog show in Birmingham. Officially recognized in the United Kingdom in 1888, the first Old English Sheepdog club was formed in the United States in 1900. The Bobtail was not introduced in France until 1973.

Old English Sheepdog Behavior

The Old English Sheepdog is a vigorous, playful animal. He is neither fearful nor aggressive. This affectionate breed is calm and even-tempered. Nicknamed the «nanny dog,» he always looks out for the children. Though he has the heart of a guardian, he is not aggressive and will not bite. Besides, with his teddy bear appearance and «pot-casse» bark, he does not look particularly threatening.

Old English Sheepdog Advice

The Old English Sheepdog can adapt to city life in an apartment if he is always with his owner and can have time to run each day. He does not bear the heat well. This intelligent dog has a mind of his own, and therefore needs firm training. Daily brushing is very important to keep his profuse, shaggy coat from knotting.

Old English Sheepdog Function

Sheepdog (now rarely used as a sheepdog). Pet.