Old English Sheepdog

At birth, Old English sheepdogs tip the scale at 13-14 ounces-typical for puppies- but their weight will increase 100-fold within a year. Within 6 months, the typical shaggy old English sheepdog hair will hide their lovely round eyes, and, after about 1 year, the fluffy puppy coat gives way to the mature dog’s longer, stronger double coat. Even as puppies, they are intelligent and intuitive. One owner says, “When I am busy, he stays quiet. But when he sees I have time to play, he comes to me joyously.” As the name implies, Old English sheepdogs have long worked as herding dogs in the United Kingdom, although they were originally cattle-herding dogs. The characteristic bob-tail (docked tail) is said to have distinguished tax-exempt cattle dogs.

Cheerful and affectionate, Old English sheepdogs are instinctively protective and take good care of their owners, as well as their own puppies and even other dogs. This breed is gentle and quiet but can also be very expressive. When they’re happy, for example, they violently wag their hips, and, to show affection, they may lean on you, oblivious of the force of their weight. Also, although their bark is low and forceful (dogs with protruding muzzles, however, tend to bark at a higher pitch), they do not bark unnecessarily.

Very careful an frequent brushing is required so that the hair does not become entangled or felted, and the coat should be clipped in the summer.

Origin : United Kingdom
Size : (male) Height 24-25 inches ; weight 66-91 pounds
(female) Height 21-23 inches ; weight 66-91 pounds
Coat : Harsh and shaggy; undercoat is waterproof. Color include blue, gray, and blue merle, with white markings, or in reverse.