Are you considering bringing an Old English Sheepdog into your home? One question you may be asking yourself is, “Do Old English Sheepdogs shed?”
The answer is yes, they do. However, shedding can vary depending on the individual dog and other factors.
Old English Sheepdogs have a thick, fluffy coat that requires regular grooming to maintain.
While shedding is a normal part of a dog’s life, the amount of shedding can be a concern for some pet owners.
It’s important to understand what to expect when it comes to shedding if you’re considering an Old English Sheepdog as a pet.
If you’re concerned about shedding, there are steps you can take to minimize it.
Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, can help keep your Old English Sheepdog’s coat healthy and reduce shedding.
Additionally, feeding your dog a healthy diet and providing them with plenty of exercise can also help keep shedding under control.
Overall, while Old English Sheepdogs do shed, with proper care and attention, you can help keep shedding to a minimum.
Breed Origin and History
If you’re considering getting an Old English Sheepdog, it’s important to understand their breed origin and history.
The Old English Sheepdog, also known as the OES, originated in England in the 18th century.
They were primarily bred for herding purposes on farms, where they would help manage and move cattle and sheep.
The exact origins of the Old English Sheepdog are unclear, but it is believed that they were developed by breeding drover’s dogs with other breeds such as the Bearded Collie and some European breeds.
In the early 19th century, a bobtailed drover’s dog called the Smithfield or Cotswold Cor was noticed in the southwestern counties of England and may have been an ancestor.
The Old English Sheepdog has a long and rich history in England, where they were highly valued for their herding skills.
They were also popular as family pets, known for their friendly and affectionate nature.
In fact, the breed was so popular that it was promoted in the United States by Pittsburgh industrialist Wm. Wade in the late 1880s.
By the turn of the century, five of the ten wealthiest American families – the Morgans, Vanderbilts, Goulds, Harrisons, and Guggenheims – all owned, bred, and exhibited the Old English Sheepdog.
Today, the Old English Sheepdog is still a popular breed, valued for their friendly and outgoing personality, as well as their distinctive shaggy coat.
While they are no longer primarily used for herding, they make excellent family pets and are often seen in dog shows and other competitions.
Physical Appearance and Size
The Old English Sheepdog is a large breed of dog that is known for its shaggy appearance. Their thick, double coat of hair is one of their most distinctive features.
The outer coat is long and shaggy, while the undercoat is soft and woolly. This coat provides insulation and protection from the elements, making it perfect for cold weather.
The Old English Sheepdog is a big dog, with males typically weighing between 70 and 100 pounds and standing around 22 inches tall at the shoulder.
Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 60 and 85 pounds and standing around 21 inches tall at the shoulder.
In addition to their shaggy hair, the Old English Sheepdog is also known for their distinctive beard and mustache. Their coat can come in a variety of colors, including blue, gray, and white.
Overall, their appearance is often described as bear-like due to their size and shaggy hair.
Their friendly appearance and size make them a popular breed among families and individuals looking for a lovable and loyal companion.
Shedding and Grooming
Old English Sheepdogs are known for their long and fluffy coat, which is a defining characteristic of the breed. However, with this beautiful coat comes a significant amount of shedding.
It’s important to know that all dogs shed to some degree, and Old English Sheepdogs are no exception.
To keep your Old English Sheepdog’s coat healthy and looking its best, regular grooming is essential. Brushing your dog’s coat at least once a week will help to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
Use a slicker brush to gently remove tangles and mats, and a comb to work through any remaining knots.
It’s also important to pay attention to your dog’s undercoat, which can become matted if not properly cared for.
To prevent matting, use a slicker brush to work through the undercoat and remove any loose fur.
While Old English Sheepdogs are not hypoallergenic, regular grooming can help to reduce the amount of dander they produce.
Bathing your dog every few months can also help to keep their coat clean and healthy.
However, be careful not to over-bathe your dog, as this can strip their coat of its natural oils and cause dryness and irritation.
If your Old English Sheepdog’s coat becomes severely matted, it may be necessary to shave them.
This should only be done by a professional groomer, as shaving can damage your dog’s coat and skin if not done properly.
In summary, regular coat care is essential for Old English Sheepdogs to keep their coat healthy and prevent matting.
Brushing, combing, and bathing are all important parts of grooming your dog, and should be done regularly to keep their coat looking its best.
Remember to be gentle when brushing and combing, and seek professional help if your dog’s coat becomes severely matted.
Health and Lifespan
Taking care of your Old English Sheepdog’s health is crucial to ensure a long and happy life. On average, these dogs can live for 10 to 12 years, but some can live longer with proper care.
Old English Sheepdogs are generally healthy, but they are predisposed to certain health problems.
It is essential to find a responsible breeder who screens for conditions such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
Hip dysplasia is a common condition in many large dog breeds, including Old English Sheepdogs. It is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint, causing pain and discomfort and can lead to arthritis.
PRA is an inherited disease that causes the retina to degenerate, leading to blindness.
To keep your Old English Sheepdog healthy, make sure they receive regular exercise and a well-balanced diet.
Feeding your dog a high-quality dog food that contains all the necessary nutrients is essential for their overall health. Be sure to provide fresh water at all times.
Regular vet check-ups are also crucial to catch any health problems early on.
Your vet can also recommend parasite prevention and treatment to keep your dog healthy and free from fleas, ticks, and worms.
In addition to physical health, training and socialization are also essential for your Old English Sheepdog’s mental health and well-being.
Proper training can prevent behavioral issues and ensure your dog is well-behaved and obedient.
Living Conditions and Exercise
Old English Sheepdogs are adaptable and can live in most living conditions, including apartments, as long as they get enough exercise and attention.
However, they are a high maintenance breed and require daily exercise and grooming.
When it comes to living space, Old English Sheepdogs are not picky. They will be happy as long as they have enough room to move around and play.
They are indoor dogs and should not be left outside for extended periods.
If you live in an apartment, it’s important to take your Old English Sheepdog for daily walks and provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Old English Sheepdogs are affectionate and love attention. They thrive on human interaction and should not be left alone for long periods.
If you work long hours, it’s important to make sure your Old English Sheepdog has plenty of toys and mental stimulation to keep them occupied.
Old English Sheepdogs drool and shed, so it’s important to keep your living space clean and tidy. Regular grooming and vacuuming will help keep shedding and drool under control.
Daily exercise is essential for Old English Sheepdogs. They require at least one hour of physical activity each day to maintain their health and happiness.
This can include walks, runs, playtime, and other activities that get them moving.
In addition to physical exercise, Old English Sheepdogs require mental stimulation. They are intelligent dogs and enjoy learning new tricks and playing games.
Training and interactive toys can provide mental stimulation and help prevent boredom.
Interaction with Children and Other Pets
Old English Sheepdogs are known to be friendly and energetic dogs that get along well with children and other pets.
They make excellent family pets and are great companions for both children and adults.
However, it is important to socialize your Old English Sheepdog from an early age to ensure that they are comfortable around children and other pets.
Old English Sheepdogs have a natural herding instinct, which means that some dogs may try to herd children and other pets by circling, poking, or nipping at them.
This behavior can be managed through proper training and socialization.
It is important to teach your Old English Sheepdog that this behavior is not acceptable and to redirect their attention to more appropriate activities.
When it comes to other pets, Old English Sheepdogs generally get along well with cats and other dogs.
However, it is important to introduce your Old English Sheepdog to other pets slowly and carefully to ensure that they get along well.
It is also important to supervise your Old English Sheepdog when they are interacting with other pets to prevent any aggressive behavior.
Choosing a Breeder
When looking for an Old English Sheepdog breeder, it’s important to do your research to ensure you’re getting a healthy and well-bred puppy. Here are some tips to help you choose a breeder:
1. Look for a reputable breeder
A reputable breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs over profit.
They will perform health checks on their breeding dogs and will be able to provide you with documentation to prove it.
They will also be knowledgeable about the breed and will be able to answer any questions you may have.
2. Visit the breeder in person
Visiting the breeder in person will give you a chance to see the living conditions of the dogs and the cleanliness of the facilities. You’ll also be able to interact with the dogs and assess their personalities.
3. Ask for references
A good breeder will be happy to provide you with references from previous customers. Don’t be afraid to reach out to these references and ask about their experience with the breeder.
4. Avoid puppy mills
Puppy mills are notorious for breeding dogs in poor living conditions and prioritizing profit over the health of the dogs. Avoid purchasing a puppy from a puppy mill at all costs.
5. Consider the weight of the puppy
Old English Sheepdogs can grow to be quite large, so it’s important to consider the weight of the puppy when choosing a breeder.
A reputable breeder will be able to provide you with an estimate of the adult weight of the puppy’s parents.
6. Be aware of potential health issues
Old English Sheepdogs are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and collie eye anomaly.
A reputable breeder will perform health checks on their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of passing on these health issues to their puppies.
7. Look for a breeder who socializes their puppies
Old English Sheepdogs can be prone to aggression and destructive behavior if not properly socialized as puppies.
Look for a breeder who socializes their puppies and exposes them to a variety of people and situations.
8. Consider the breed’s tendencies to bark and act as guard dogs
Old English Sheepdogs are known for their loud bark and protective nature.
If you live in an apartment or have close neighbors, it’s important to consider this when choosing a breeder and a puppy.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to find a reputable Old English Sheepdog breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical lifespan of an Old English Sheepdog?
Old English Sheepdogs typically live for around 10-12 years. However, with proper care and attention, they can live longer.
Is the Old English Sheepdog a non-shedding breed?
No, Old English Sheepdogs do shed. Shedding patterns can vary from dog to dog, but it is essential to understand the nature of their coat and why shedding occurs to manage it effectively.
Regular grooming and brushing can help minimize shedding.
Can Old English Sheepdogs have short hair?
No, Old English Sheepdogs are known for their long, shaggy coats, and they do not have a short-haired variety.
Where can I find Old English Sheepdogs for sale?
You can find Old English Sheepdogs for sale at reputable breeders, rescue organizations, or through online marketplaces.
Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable seller to ensure the health and well-being of your new furry friend.
What is the average size of an Old English Sheepdog?
Old English Sheepdogs are a large breed, with males typically weighing between 70-100 pounds and standing 22-24 inches tall at the shoulder.
Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 60-85 pounds and standing 20-22 inches tall at the shoulder.
How much does an Old English Sheepdog cost?
The price of an Old English Sheepdog can vary depending on several factors, such as the breeder’s location, the dog’s pedigree, and whether it is a show-quality or pet-quality dog.
On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500-$3,000 for an Old English Sheepdog.