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Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdog is a large herding breed from England also known as Bobtail.

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Old English Sheepdog

Breed overview

Old English Sheepdog is a large herding breed from England also known as Bobtail.

A shaggy herding dog breed from England (1800s), developed from pastoral dogs to drive cattle and sheep to market. Its trademark is the profuse gray-and-white coat and bear-like gait.

People looking into Old English Sheepdog usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, High grooming needs, 60–100 lbs • 21–22 in.

Bobtail

History and origin

Old English Sheepdog is tied to originating from England, specifically West England, with sources often placing its development around 1800 CE.

Old English Sheepdog is described here as placed in the herding group and marked as an established breed.

A shaggy herding dog breed from England (1800s), developed from pastoral dogs to drive cattle and sheep to market. Its trademark is the profuse gray-and-white coat and bear-like gait.

Browse dog breeds from England Browse more herding breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
herding
Size
Large
Origin country
England
Region
West England
Origin year
1800 CE
Weight
60–100 lbs
Height
21–22 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Moderate exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Old English Sheepdog is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

LongShaggyDouble

Old English Sheepdog is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Profuse, shaggy gray and white coat
  • Large, square-proportioned body
  • Eyes typically covered by fur
  • Distinctive rolling, bear-like gait

What this breed is known for

  • A shaggy herding dog breed from England (1800s), developed from pastoral dogs to drive cattle and sheep to market. Its trademark is the profuse gray-and-white coat and bear-like gait.
  • Old English Sheepdogs have a distinctive rolling gait and a loud bark. Underneath the shaggy coat, they are strong and muscular.
  • They are gentle, sociable, and sometimes clownish. OES are known to be good with children and might try to herd family members.

Health and care notes

Old English Sheepdog is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness

Coat details: Long, Shaggy, Double

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Old English Sheepdog come from?

Old English Sheepdog is closely associated with England, especially West England in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Old English Sheepdog get?

Typical size details for Old English Sheepdog on this page are 60–100 lbs, 21–22 in, 10–12 years.

What is the Old English Sheepdog known for?

A shaggy herding dog breed from England (1800s), developed from pastoral dogs to drive cattle and sheep to market. Its trademark is the profuse gray-and-white coat and bear-like gait.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Old English Sheepdog reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.