Old English Sheepdog Puppies for Sale

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom

Available Puppies

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Breed Characteristics

Average Size: Large

Average Lifespan: 10-12 years

Kid/Pet Friendly: Sometimes

Registry: aca,akc

Activity Level: moderate

Shedding Level: moderate

Grooming Level: high

Trainability: high

Good For Novice Owners: high

Adaptability: high

Prey Drive: low

Watchdog: very alert

Breed Information

Overview

“Loveable” is the best all-around adjective to describe the Old English Sheepdog. It’s hard not to be enchanted by this big, fluffy, and childlike dog. They are affectionate, curious, agile, and obedient. Some attribute their playful disposition to the fact that the OE Sheepdog experiences a prolonged adolescence until about three years old. They are a perfect family dog, sometimes referred to as the “nanny” because of the role they take on with children. These dogs bond especially intensely with their families, often experiencing acute separation anxiety with prolonged absences. Although they will be protective of their family, the Old English Sheepdog is no real watchdog. They are not known to be irritable or aggressive. And, despite their hard working lineage, OE Sheepdogs can be couch potatoes. Only poorly bred or abused OE Sheepdogs have been observed to have displeasing personalities.

Although the Old English Sheepdog has an unmistakable and iconic appearance, the breed’s exact history is a bit of a mystery. This dog breed was developed in England and is likely a descendant of the bearded collie. Records of this beautiful, fluffy dog don’t appear until the nineteenth century. At that time, it was named the “Bobtail”, or “Bob”, for its cropped tail. The cropping of the tail was designed to communicate that it was a drover, which was a dog responsible for herding sheep or cattle. This was done in order to tax the working dog. Across the pond, the Old English Sheepdog’s popularity grew rapidly among the upper classes. Not long after being imported into the United States in the 1880s, the OE Sheepdog was being bred and shown by half of the wealthiest families in U.S.

With its face covered with long, shaggy fur and its comical, ragdoll gait, the Old English Sheepdog is a sweet and affectionate “clown.” Yet, this unique personality belies the fact that they are one highly intelligent and innately competent worker. The OE Sheepdog’s magnificent double coat makes it a staple at dog shows. The breed has also been featured as the lovable family pet in countless movies and television shows. Yet, despite its obvious appeal, the Old English Sheepdog is not currently very popular; it ranks about 75th on the American Kennel Club’s popularity list.

Temperament

“Lovable” is the best all-around adjective to describe the Old English Sheepdog. It’s hard not to be enchanted by this big, fluffy, and childlike dog. They are affectionate, curious, agile, and obedient. Some attribute their playful disposition to the fact that the OE Sheepdog experiences a prolonged adolescence until about three years old. They are a perfect family dog, sometimes referred to as the “nanny” because of the role they take on with children. These dogs bond especially intensely with their families, often experiencing acute separation anxiety with prolonged absences. Although they will be protective of their family, the Old English Sheepdog is no real watchdog. They are not known to be irritable or aggressive and are more interested in making friends. And, despite their hard working lineage, OE Sheepdogs can be couch potatoes. Only poorly bred or abused OE Sheepdogs have been observed to have displeasing personalities.

Did You Know?

The Old English Sheepdog has a supporting role in Disney’s The Little Mermaid and 101 Dalmatians. In The Little Mermaid, Prince Eric’s dog is an Old English Sheepdog named Max. In 101 Dalmatians, an OE Sheepdog named Colonel assists with the rescue of the Dalmatian puppies.