HISTORY

The origins of the old English sheepdog can be traced back to 19th-century England. Although some people believe it has connections with the Russian owtchar dog while others have said that it is better connected to the Scottish bearded collie. 

At about the 19th century, the old English sheepdog was commonly referred to as a drover. The reason it was called a drover is that it was used to drive sheep and cattle into the market. As a matter of fact, there were no taxes imposed on the old English sheepdog because of their working class. 

For this reason, to further prove their working status, their owners had to dock their tails. The old English sheepdog found its way to America through a man named Wm. Wade in the 1880s. By the turn of the century, five out of the ten richest families in America were already breeding and showing the old English sheepdog. 

TEMPERAMENT

Generally, the old English sheepdog is a great dog to be around. They’re easy-going, intelligent, social and very much adaptable. The old English sheepdog typically tries to exert its herding qualities on children and sometimes, its adult owners. 

An old English sheepdog is usually kind, affectionate and playful throughout its lifespan. The old English sheepdog, being a very social dog thrives better when it is amid other animals or when it is allowed in a family.

ENVIRONMENT

The old English sheepdog is one that enjoys the company of both its owners and other animals. This dog should not be locked away in a kennel, as it usually enjoys being with people. The old English sheepdog thrives really well in a family setting that isn’t overly active and social.

EXERCISE

The old English sheepdog is a social dog and so it requires a fair level of weekly exercise. When it is still a puppy, it is advisable to allow it to exercise a lot. But as it grows older, it slowly becomes less interested in exercising and moving about. 

Practicing obedience training is also good for old English sheepdogs. Agility training and herding training are also nice ideas for possible exercises for the old English sheepdog.

Grooming

The most hectic aspect of owning an Old English sheepdog is the grooming part. Grooming the old English sheepdog is such a nice way to waste time as it is quite time-consuming. The coat of the old English sheepdog doesn’t shed on its own except its owner brushes it. 

If it isn’t brushed regularly, the dog will have lots of debris on its coat. The dogs’ coat also grows very long and may need to be trimmed down every now and then. Another important grooming practice is to take care of the mouth area. From regular brushing to good hygienic practices. 

This is because the old English sheepdog drools a lot. This drooling might end up staining the dogs’ coat and turning it yellow if not well taken care of.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE OLD ENGLISH SHEEPDOG