Old English Sheepdog
Is suitable for city living Can live in cold weather Is good for seniors or low-activity homes Does drool a lot Is good with children Is good with other dogs Is good with cats Is good for first-time owners Is affectionate with family Is protective or territorial Is prone to separation anxiety Can be used as a therapy or service dog Can be trained for herding or hunting Is recognized by major kennel clubs Adaptable Bubbly Driving sheep, cattle Great with kids Herding High energy dog Intelligent Loves hot weather Loving Playful Sheds a lot Sociable

Old English Sheepdog

Height 21 in (53 cm)
Weight 60 - 100 lbs (27 - 45 kg)
Lifespan 10 - 12 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Old English Sheepdog Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Is Old English Sheepdog prone to allergies?

Is Old English Sheepdog a hypoallergenic breed?

What are common health issues in Old English Sheepdog?

How much does it cost to raise a Old English Sheepdog annually?

Does Old English Sheepdog drool a lot?

Breed Characteristics

Based on the consensus from multiple sources stating that Old English Sheepdogs generally need around 2 hours of exercise per day, split into several walks and off-lead time in a secure area, along with interactive games and mental stimulation.

How much exercise does Old English Sheepdog need?

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The consensus from the sources indicates that Old English Sheepdogs require high grooming maintenance, including regular brushing, bathing, ear cleaning, nail clipping, and coat trimming. The breed's double coat needs thorough grooming at least weekly to prevent matting and tangles, making grooming a time-consuming and essential task for their care.

How much grooming does Old English Sheepdog need?

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Old English Sheepdogs are generally considered easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, although they can be independent and stubborn at times. Training sessions should be kept engaging and varied to prevent boredom.

Is Old English Sheepdog easy to train?

LowHigh
Based on multiple sources highlighting the intelligence, trainability, and quick learning abilities of Old English Sheepdogs, while also noting their stubbornness and need for mental stimulation.

How intelligent is Old English Sheepdog?

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Old English Sheepdogs are described as moderate barkers with a loud and distinctive bark. While they may not bark constantly, they are known to bark to communicate and alert to changes in their environment.

Does Old English Sheepdog bark a lot?

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The consensus from multiple sources indicates that an Old English Sheepdog requires at least 2 hours of exercise per day, including walks, playtime, and interactive games. The sources emphasize the high exercise needs of this breed, with some suggesting even more vigorous activity. Therefore, a rating of 5, indicating a very high level of playtime needed daily, is appropriate.

How much playtime does a Old English Sheepdog need daily?

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Based on the majority of sources indicating that Old English Sheepdogs can be protective, alert, and territorial when necessary, despite not being primarily considered guarding dogs.

Is Old English Sheepdog protective or territorial?

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The consensus suggests that Old English Sheepdogs are highly attached to their families and should live indoors with limited walks. While they enjoy outdoor activities, it is advised to keep outside time limited due to health concerns. They can handle small walks inside the yard and mental stimulation activities indoors.

Can Old English Sheepdog stay indoors with limited walks?

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The consensus from the sources indicates that the Old English Sheepdog can be independent, stubborn, and strong-willed, requiring firm and consistent training. While they are intelligent and trainable, their tendency towards stubbornness and independence is highlighted multiple times in the sources.

Is Old English Sheepdog stubborn or independent?

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The consensus from multiple sources indicates that Old English Sheepdogs are highly affectionate with family members, good with children, and enjoy being around humans. They are described as friendly, loyal, and loving companions, making them ideal family pets.

Is Old English Sheepdog affectionate with family?

LowHigh

Basic Info

What are the breed characteristics of Old English Sheepdog?

The Old English Sheepdog is best known for its thick, soft coat and large size, with a distinctive bear-like gait and mellow demeanor. This breed is intelligent, independent, and requires firm guidance. Old English Sheepdogs are cheerful, intelligent, and loving family companions that are loyal, caring, and friendly. They are energetic working dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. With a height ranging from 22 to 24 inches and a weight of 79 to 95 pounds, they are strong, compact, and square in shape. Originating a few hundred years ago, they are relatively new compared to some ancient breeds. Overall, the Old English Sheepdog is an intelligent, affectionate, and fun-loving family dog that requires attentive grooming and responsible ownership.


What is the average litter size of Old English Sheepdog?

The average litter size of Old English Sheepdogs typically ranges from 4 to 8 puppies, with an average of around 5 to 6 puppies per litter. The breed has a normal life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. While litter sizes can vary from 1 to 12 puppies, the general consensus is around 5 to 6 puppies being the norm. Old English Sheepdogs are known for their large size, with males reaching heights of 22 inches and up, and females reaching heights of 22-24 inches, weighing over 65 lbs. Breeders invest significant time, energy, and resources into each litter, ensuring that puppies are well cared for and placed in loving homes.


What does a Old English Sheepdog look like?

The Old English Sheepdog is a large, fluffy dog known for its thick double coat that comes in shades of white, blue, and gray. They have a distinctive bear-like appearance with a mellow and friendly demeanor. Show-quality dogs are around 21-22 inches tall at the shoulder, with a rough and dense coat covering their entire body, including their eyes. They are loyal, caring, and good with everyone, making them great family pets. Old English Sheepdogs are muscular working dogs with a bouncy and enthusiastic nature, but they may require patient and consistent training, especially when young. Their coat should be in shades of blue, grey, grizzle, or blue merle, with fawn or brown colors being undesirable. Overall, the Old English Sheepdog is a lovable and eye-catching breed that would make a wonderful addition to a family with two young cats and an interest in dog sports.


What is the typical lifespan of Old English Sheepdog?

The typical lifespan of an Old English Sheepdog ranges from 10 to 12 years, with some individuals living into their early teens. The breed is generally healthy but is predisposed to certain health issues. A UK study found a life expectancy of 12.1 years for Old English Sheepdogs, slightly lower than the average for purebreds and crossbreeds. The median age of death for the breed is around 10 years 9 months, with some individuals living up to 15 years 1 month. Proper care and attention can help Old English Sheepdogs live long, healthy lives, with some individuals reaching ages of 17 years in recent years.


What is the origin of the Old English Sheepdog?

The Old English Sheepdog is a large breed that emerged in England in the 18th century, particularly in the southwestern counties and the West Country. It was developed as a "drover's dog" for driving sheep and cattle to markets. The exact origin of the breed is uncertain, with theories suggesting influences from the Briard, Scottish Bearded Collie, Bergamasco, Russian Ovcharka, and other pastoral types. The breed was promoted in the U.S. in the late 1800s and was known for its ability to drive livestock and defend against predators. Overall, the Old English Sheepdog is believed to have originated around 200 years ago in England, filling the need for a strong and versatile working dog in the agricultural landscape.


What is the average size of Old English Sheepdog?

The Old English Sheepdog is a large breed with males typically standing between 22-24 inches tall and weighing 80-100 pounds, while females stand 21-22 inches tall and weigh 60-85 pounds. However, there is some variation in size, with males sometimes reaching 27-31 inches in height and weighing 90-115 pounds, and females weighing between 75-105 pounds and standing 25-29 inches tall. The average lifespan of an Old English Sheepdog is 10-12 years.


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