Old English Sheepdog

Dog Breed Profile

Home Dog Breeds Herding Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdog History

The Old English Sheepdog, or “OES”, is a medium to large-sized sheep herding and general purpose farm working breed of dog. The OES originated in the United Kingdom and several centuries later was exported to the United States. The OES shares a common ancestry with the modern English Shepherd, and both dogs are descended from the ‘Old Spanish and Portuguese’ dogs of the British Isles, which were brought to Britain by the Romans. The Old English Sheepdog is a medium-sized, mainly white, double-coated sheepdog, originally developed for herding and guarding flocks of sheep.

Time of Origin

1800s

Country of Origin

England

Old English Sheepdog Physical Characteristics

The Old English Sheepdog is a medium-size breed of working sheepdogs that is descended from the Border Collie. They are intelligent and high energy dogs that are known for their deep chests and long, curly coats. They have a wedge-shaped head that is large, with a deep muzzle, an erect triangular ear, and hanging ears. Their eyes are typically dark brown or hazel, and they have a straight tail that curls over their back. The Old English Sheepdog is a loyal, affectionate, and hard working breed.

Eye Colors

Blue, Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 22 – 24 inches

Female Height Range: 21 – 22 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 70 – 90 lbs

Female Weight Range: 60 – 80 lbs

Old English Sheepdog Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-12 yrs

Old English Sheepdog Health Concerns

Entropion, Cataracts, Hip Dysplasia, Otitis Externa, Demodectic Mange, Deafness, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Cerebellar Abiotrophy, Diabetes

Old English Sheepdog Temperament and Behaviour

The Old English Sheepdog is a well-balanced, easygoing, and gentle breed of dog. They love to be with their family and are very loyal to them. They are generally patient, quiet, and mild mannered, but can be stubborn. They are easy to train and are eager to please, but are also very sensitive, so harsh corrections are not recommended.

Old English Sheepdog Activity Requirements

Old English Sheepdogs, or OES, are a large, athletic dog that was bred to herd sheep. They are loyal, intelligent, and devoted to their families, making them great companions. OES will need at least one hour of vigorous exercise each day. This can include a walk or jog, as long as they get to spend most of their time outside. If they have been cooped up indoors, you will want to take them for a long walk to help them burn off some energy. If you have an English Sheepdog, you have an active companion on your hands. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. A job or an activity, like herding, can keep an OES happy, healthy, and well adjusted.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

3 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

Old English Sheepdog is part of the Herding group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

Old English Sheepdog is part of the Pastoral group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

Old English Sheepdog is part of the Working group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club

Old English Sheepdog is part of the Herding group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.