Old English Sheepdog

Breed Group: Herding

"Most people know me for my locks and love!"

Breed Profile

The Old English Sheepdog’s unique coat will catch your eye, but their kind, loving personality will steal your heart. These big bundles of love crave human companionship and want to be by your side 24/7... just make sure you have a big brush in hand.

Behavior

Old English Sheepdogs are smart and social pups who are known as homebodies. Their size and loud bark make them great watchdogs, but underneath their tough exterior, these dogs are quite gentle. Sheepdogs have a silly side too and enjoy clowning around with their families, children, and anyone else who wants to join in.

Coat

The most distinct feature of an Old English Sheepdog is their long, shaggy coat. They come in blue or grey, and their head, belly, and front quarters are white. These dogs have high-maintenance grooming needs: their coat sheds often and needs to be brushed at least a few times each week, which often takes half an hour to an hour.

Lifestyle

Old English Sheepdogs love being around children, especially older ones they can play with. They get along with other dogs and pets too if they’re socialized. Sheepdogs may seem like outdoor dogs, but they actually prefer living indoors and being around people. Because of their size, they aren’t well-suited for apartment life. Instead, these pups prefer homes with a securely fenced backyard, where they can run and play before returning inside to be close with their humans.

Activity

This breed needs a fair amount of exercise, but they will be fine if you miss a day here and there. On most days, plan to take your Sheepdog for a long walk or play a sport that keeps their minds and bodies active, like fetch or Frisbee.

Old English Sheepdog Characteristics

Space Needs
Activity Needs
Intelligence
Playfulness
Grooming Needs
Trainability
Watchdog Ability
Affection
Barking
Cat-friendliness
Dog-friendliness
Child-friendliness
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