The Old English Sheepdog is so much more than a big fluffy marshmallow of a dog. These clownish animals have a definite sense of humor and delight in making humans laugh! They are also surprisingly gentle and easy-going, especially for their size. Even-tempered and loving to their owners while outgoing and happy with strangers, they are loyal to their family and friends, almost to a fault.
While the OES does not make a good guard dog, he will bark at strangers that come near the home. This watchdog ability combined with the dog’s large sizes is usually enough of a deterrent for intruders. Some can be protective in the most dire of situations but they shouldn’t otherwise be expected to take out a robber while the owners are away. The breed is a lover and not a fighter. Many are quite intuitive and sensitive to the energy of humans, however, and are often able to tell friend from foe.
While Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent, sometimes they can have a mind of their own when it comes to training. One day they might earn a high score in obedience while the next they may decide to play a prank on you while in the ring! Take advantage of the fact that they enjoy being the center of attention and try to use that in obedience lessons, encouraging them to have fun. Even though it may mean that some lessons will take a “silly detour”, it will be worth it as long as you gradually steer them back into what they need to be doing. Remember that many OES have a stubborn side as well – so be prepared to work them through it. Obedience is a necessity for this breed, who often become bratty without training and rules.
An Old English can be at home in any type of home – be it apartment, condo or large house. They love the city and the country equally, as long as they are able to spend lots of time with their owners! Like other “velcro” breeds, when you are home you will find yourself with a constant canine shadow! This is definitely not a breed which can be kept in a kennel or outside for the majority of their life, nor do they adapt well to owners who work all day and leave them by themselves. Although this can be said for many breeds, it is especially true for this one. Do not get an OES if you cannot give them tons of attention!
Lots of time must also be devoted to grooming for this breed requires at least 2-3 hours a WEEK for coat care. The glorious coat which is the hallmark of the Old English Sheepdog, also makes him high maintenance. The coat does not just brush or wash itself! Furthermore, although it should go without saying, an owner must be prepared for dog hair to be everywhere in the house, as well as be ok with the dog dragging brambles and mud into the house when he comes in from outside. This is not a breed for fastidious people. Even after drinking water, the beard will get sopping wet and the dog may drip it everywhere across the floor. Be forewarned.
The OES is fantastic around children although younger individuals may be a bit rowdy around small toddler-age kids. Many stay rambunctious until the age of 3, and can easily knock down a small child without meaning to. The breed is very affectionate and playful, always ready to engage in a game with the smaller members of the family (which may include trying to herd them). Since they love being around people, they don’t tend to wander away which makes them great babysitters, although supervision is obviously recommended (no one should seriously use their dog as a babysitter).
Despite their rugged appearance, the Old English is actually active and athletic. Originally bred as a herding and droving dog (they moved flocks of sheep across long stretches of land), they have a fair bit of energy that needs to be channeled through daily exercise. Unlike many other herding breeds, they do not have endless energy and are fairly adaptable to many different exercise routines, but this is still an important need. Younger OES have more energy and will need more exercise than mature adults. It is not uncommon for puppies and adolescents to make your house a giant playground without enough training and/or exercise outings!
Photo by Harald Urnes, Norway