The Old English Sheepdog is best described as “lovable,” showcasing a charming blend of affection, curiosity, agility, and obedience. This large, fluffy, and playful dog is often likened to a child. Their playful demeanor is attributed to a prolonged adolescence lasting until around three years old. Referred to as the “nanny” for their excellent interaction with children, they make ideal family dogs.

These dogs form strong bonds with their families, displaying acute separation anxiety during extended absences. While protective, they are not effective watchdogs, as their friendly nature prevails over any aggressive tendencies. Despite their hardworking lineage, Old English Sheepdogs can also be couch potatoes. It’s noted that only poorly bred or mistreated individuals may exhibit displeasing personalities.

The Old English Sheepdog excels as a house pet, valuing close bonds with its human family. However, like many larger breeds, they require daily exercise and may not fare well when left alone in a backyard. Their intelligence, curiosity, and outgoing nature make them ideal candidates for agility, flyball, and herding activities, providing both mental and physical stimulation. While they may overheat easily, they exhibit resilience in cold weather, reflecting their adaptability to diverse climates.

The Old English Sheepdog is generally healthy, but as a large breed, they may be prone to conditions like hip dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and deafness. Responsible breeders focus on screening for genetic disorders to ensure the health of puppies. Prospective owners should discuss the genetic history of the parents with the breeder and review relevant health clearances for the well-being of the pup.

Despite the significant grooming commitment demanded by the Old English Sheepdog, these dogs are cherished by their owners as the epitome of “man’s best friend.” Renowned for their friendly, outgoing, warm-hearted, and comical nature, they make exceptional family pets. With relative ease of training, they exhibit good behavior and are highly trainable, suiting owners of all experience levels. As long as owners are prepared for the task of maintaining their vast, shaggy coat, the experience fosters a loving bond that endures a lifetime.

The Old English Sheepdog is a high-maintenance pet due to its dense coat, posing challenges in cleanliness and mat prevention, which may lead to shedding concerns for owners prioritizing a tidy home environment. Grooming proves to be the most demanding aspect of caring for these dogs, often prompting owners to relinquish them. Daily brushing and regular checks for matted hair are crucial to prevent skin issues. Frequent bathing, recommended every 6 to 8 weeks, presents a challenge, especially given the dog’s size. Additionally, drooling stains the fur, particularly the heavy beard, detracting from its appearance.

The activity level of the Old English Sheepdog presents an intriguing contrast. Bred for hard work, agility, and energy, they can also be found comfortably doing nothing around the house during quieter moments. As these dogs age, they tend to lean towards a more laid-back lifestyle. Despite their inherent energy, they are easily trained and form close bonds with their humans, adapting to the family’s pace and activities. In essence, the Old English Sheepdog strikes a balance between being inherently energetic and knowing when to relax.

The Old English Sheepdog is a substantial dog breed, with males typically weighing between 80 and 100 pounds, and females ranging from 60 to 85 pounds. The height difference between males and females is typically one to two inches, with a general height range of 21 to 22 inches.

A well-cared-for, adequately nourished, and healthy Old English Sheepdog typically enjoys a lifespan of 10 to 12 years.