History of the Old English Sheepdog Breed Originating 200 years ago in England's West Country, the Old English sheepdog was first known only as "The Shepherd's Dog." When wolves still prowled the English countryside, farmers needed a breed of dog that would protect their flocks. While the Old English sheepdog's origins remain a mystery, there are many theories, most of which favor a link with the Bearded Collie or the Russian Owtchar. By the mid-19th century, the Old English sheepdog's role was confined to herding, and its fiercer characteristics began to disappear. As a working animal, the sheepdog was exempt from the English dog tax. Proof of the dog's occupation was a docked tail. This is a custom that continues today and has given rise to the breed's nickname, "bobtail." Farmers in the 19th century sheared their sheepdogs along with their sheep and used the profuse coat to make blankets and clothing. This coat makes the dog sufficiently cold-tolerant that it has been employed to herd reindeer. First exhibited in England in 1873, the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1905 and has since become a very popular exhibit. In the 1970s, television began to showcase the exotic-looking dog with the loving and lovable nature, causing its popularity to skyrocket. Size and Appearance of the Old English Sheepdog Breed Square-built, the Old English sheepdog's body is thickset and muscular, providing both strength and agility. Its unusual topline, which slopes down from loin to withers, is a distinguishing breed characteristic. On the large, square head, the small ears lie flat. Eyes are blue or brown or one of each, and its distinct bark is low-pitched. The dog is either born without a tail or has it completely removed after birth. A hard coat of profuse and shaggy hair with no curl in it covers the soft, waterproof undercoat. Acceptable coat colors are blue, gray, blue-gray or blue-merle, with or without white markings. The dog may also be predominantly white with markings in any of the above colors. The Old English sheepdog's gait appears effortless, yet it is powerful and fast. At slower speeds, the dog may pace or shuffle, giving it a "bear-like" roll. Old English Sheepdog's Temperament The Old English sheepdog is a cornucopia of admirable traits: amiable, gentle, jolly, even-tempered, adaptable, friendly, faithful, protective, alert and intelligent. It is very good with children, although perhaps a bit rambunctious for the youngest. The dog will occasionally attempt to herd the children with gentle bumping. So, when you're ready to take your children to market, no problem. A homebody, the dog revels in human companionship. The breed enjoys other pets and is friendly with strangers. The Old English sheepdog has a strong will and requires firm training. Old English Sheepdog's Recommended Maintenance This breed's shaggy coat needs constant care. Daily brushing, right through to the undercoat, will prevent matting, tangling and skin problems. A dog not being shown does well to be machine-clipped every other month, especially in summer. Old English sheepdogs are heavy shedders, mostly in April and May. The breed's roots as a herding animal make vigorous outdoor exercise essential to its happiness. Although it manages well in an apartment if given sufficient exercise, a yard to play in is beneficial. This dog cannot live outdoors in cold climates. It fares best living indoors with the family because of its highly social nature. Old English Sheepdog Health �?Life span: 10 - 12 years
�?Major concerns: CHD
�?Minor concerns: gastric torsion, otitis externa retinal detachment, cataract, deafness
�?Occasionally seen: none
�?Suggested tests: hip, eye, (hearing)
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