An Old English Sheepdog
Photo: Mona (uploaded by Caronna 08:14, 15 Apr 2005 (UTC)), CC BY-SA 3.0 (opens in a new tab) · source (opens in a new tab)

Old English Sheepdog

Also called Bobtail and Shepherd's Dog

  • Great with kids
  • Needs space
  • Sheds a lot
  • Lots of grooming

The Old English Sheepdog is a large breed of herding dog from England. These dogs are large in size, with a thick double coat of fur to protect them from the cold. They have a gentle and affectionate demeanor, making them excellent companion and working dogs. They are highly trainable and intelligent, with an instinct to herd and protect their family and property. They are loyal and devoted to their family, with an independent nature that makes them well suited for herding and guard work.

Weight
60–90 lb (27–41 kg)
Height at the shoulder
21–24 in (53–61 cm)
Life span
10–12 years
Exercise
About 60 minutes a day
Coat
Long, Double
Origin
England (19th century)

Traits

Family and friends

  • Children: Great with children
  • Other dogs: Good with other dogs
  • Strangers: Friendly with strangers

Home and activity

  • Energy: Moderately active
  • Apartment living: Needs space
  • Barking: Barks sometimes
  • Training: Easy to train

Care

  • Grooming: Lots of grooming
  • Shedding: Sheds a lot
  • Drooling: Drools a little

Temperament

Adaptable Affectionate Gentle Intelligent Sociable Watchful

Coat colours

Black, blue, blue merle, grey, grizzle and white markings

Males and females

MeasureMalesFemales
Weight 71–90 lb (32–41 kg) 60–79 lb (27–36 kg)
Height 22–24 in (56–61 cm) 21–23 in (53–58 cm)

Recognized by

American Kennel Club (AKC), Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC), Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), The Kennel Club (UK) (KC), New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC)


Caring for an Old English Sheepdog

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Veterinarians

Check-ups and vaccinations through its 10–12 years.

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Groomers

Its coat needs frequent grooming to stay healthy.

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Dog walkers

Needs about 60 minutes of exercise a day.

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Pet sitters

Someone to look after it while you’re away.

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Breeds of a similar size

All large breeds
A Beauceron
Large

Beauceron

Herding Group

  • Weight:66–86 lb (30–39 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years
A Belgian Laekenois
Large

Belgian Laekenois

Herding Group

  • Weight:55–64 lb (25–29 kg)
  • Life span:10–12 years
A Belgian Malinois
Large

Belgian Malinois

Herding Group

  • Weight:40–79 lb (18–36 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years
A Belgian Sheepdog
Large

Belgian Sheepdog

Herding Group

  • Weight:40–75 lb (18–34 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years

Sources

Breed details from The Dog API (opens in a new tab).