what they are likeOld English Sheepdog temperament
A steady, good-natured dog that is easy to live with and willing to please. It is bold and loyal, with no nervous or sharp edge, and keeps plenty of working drive under its famous coat.234
how to spot oneOld English Sheepdog coat and colours
long double coat
A thick, shaggy outer coat of harsh hair, neither straight nor curly, over a weatherproof undercoat. The body looks square and sturdy, heavier-coated at the rear, and the dog moves with a rolling, bear-like gait when walking.231
Coloursgreygrizzleblueblue merlewith or without white markings23
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for an Old English Sheepdog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
per year, in your countryWhat a Old English Sheepdog costs
Running costs for a Old English Sheepdog, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.
Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.
by countryIs the Old English Sheepdog legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Old English Sheepdog in the 61 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksOld English Sheepdog exercise needs
High. The Royal Kennel Club suggests more than two hours of exercise a day; the breed also enjoys agility, obedience, herding, flyball and tracking.41
the hands-on bitsOld English Sheepdog grooming and care
A big grooming commitment: the Royal Kennel Club advises daily brushing to keep the long double coat free of mats, and the coat sheds heavily.4
where they are happiestOld English Sheepdog at home
Suits a home with space and an owner prepared for daily exercise and coat care.4
who they like aroundOld English Sheepdog with people and other pets
A people-oriented family dog of even disposition that likes to be involved in daily life.23
where it all beganOld English Sheepdog history
The breed grew out of English herding and droving dogs, with the Bearded Collie or Scottish collie types often suggested as contributors. It first appeared at a show in Birmingham in 1873 with only three entries, and reached America in the 1880s, where it became a favourite of wealthy families.41
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
The nickname Bobtail comes from the old habit of docking these dogs' tails, which some say was done to dodge a tax on working drovers' dogs.4
2
An Old English Sheepdog has been the mascot of the Dulux paint brand since 1961.1
3
Paul McCartney's Old English Sheepdog Martha inspired the Beatles song 'Martha My Dear'.1
4
Puppies are born black and white; the grey or silver shades come in only after the puppy coat is shed.1
5
The breed took Reserve Best in Show at the 2013 Westminster Kennel Club show.1
stars of the breedFamous ones
Dulux Dog The mascot for Dulux paint in the UK and other countries since the 1960s.5
My shaggy coat brushes the dewy grass as I trot around the garden, keeping my humans in a tidy circle. I bark a soft 'all clear' when the postman passes. After breakfast, we tumble through an agility tunnel, my paws thumping like happy drums. I flop on the cool kitchen floor, one eye open for dropped crumbs. In the evening, I rest my fuzzy chin on a lap, my tail thumping a slow, steady beat. I am the fluffy guardian of this small, happy kingdom.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 16, Group 1 (Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs), Section 1 Sheepdogs; standard dated 13.10.2010.2
The Royal Kennel Club
Pastoral group; the breed page lists it as a vulnerable native breed.4
AKC
Herding breed; current standard approved 10 February 1990, effective 28 March 1990.3
homemade and simpleTreats they will love
Old English Sheepdog tip
Old English Sheepdogs can be prone to skin allergies and a sensitive tummy, so choose single-ingredient treats and always check with your vet before introducing anything new.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Old English Sheepdog, and at what times?
Feed your adult Old English Sheepdog at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact portions, check the food label and ask your vet.6
What should an Old English Sheepdog eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality, balanced dog food suitable for your dog's age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice.7
How often should I bathe an Old English Sheepdog?
Bathe your Old English Sheepdog at least every three months, though Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests every 70 days. Bathe more often if the coat gets very dirty or if your vet recommends it for skin health.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does an Old English Sheepdog need brushing?
Brush your Old English Sheepdog daily to prevent mats in its long double coat. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends every three days, but daily brushing is essential during heavy shedding periods.48Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim an Old English Sheepdog's nails, and how often?
Trim your dog's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, roughly every 28 days. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a professional groomer for guidance.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does an Old English Sheepdog need?
Your Old English Sheepdog needs more than two hours of exercise daily, including walks, play, and activities like agility or herding. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily walks and play to keep this active breed happy.41Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after an Old English Sheepdog's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth at least every two days, ideally daily, using a dog-safe toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness, but never insert anything into the ear canal. Your vet can show you the best technique.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does an Old English Sheepdog live?
An Old English Sheepdog typically lives between 10 and 12 years, with proper care and regular vet check-ups. Enjoy many happy years with your loyal companion.41
Is an Old English Sheepdog good with children and other pets?
Yes, the Old English Sheepdog is known for its steady, good-natured temperament and is generally wonderful with children and other pets. It is a loyal, people-oriented family dog that loves being part of daily life.23
Can an Old English Sheepdog be left alone?
This breed is very people-oriented and may struggle with long periods alone. It's best to avoid leaving them for extended times; if you must, provide plenty of enrichment and consider a dog walker. For specific advice, ask a good breeder or your vet.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Bearded Collie
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
South Russian Ovcharka