The Old English Sheepdog is a large, shaggy herding dog from England with a gentle, affectionate nature. The Old English Sheepdog is intelligent, playful and loyal, a loving family dog that loves children, other dogs and being part of everything.
Quick Facts
- Origin: England
- Group: Herding
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Weight: 27–45 kg
- Height: 56–61 cm at the shoulder
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, intelligent, playful
- Good with kids: Yes — playful and sturdy with children
- Good with other pets: Yes, with early socialisation
- Exercise needs: Moderate to high — about 1–1.5 hours a day
- Grooming: Very high — long, shaggy coat, regular brushing
Temperament & Personality
Old English Sheepdogs are gentle, affectionate and deeply loyal to their family. They bond closely with their people, love children, and are usually good with other dogs. They are happy, playful dogs that love to be part of everything. They are herding dogs through and through: they are intelligent, watchful and full of energy, and they need a job to do. They can be stubborn and independent, so training needs patience and consistency. They love company and can suffer separation anxiety if left alone for long — an Old English Sheepdog needs a family that is home most of the day.
Health
Old English Sheepdogs need an honest health note: the breed is prone to bloat (gastric torsion — a serious emergency in deep-chested dogs). Other known issues include hip dysplasia, eye problems (cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy), deafness, and cancer. Buy from a breeder who health-tests the parents, feed smaller meals, and see the vet regularly.
Training
Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent and quick to learn, but they can be stubborn — training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards. Short, fun, reward-based sessions work best, and early socialisation helps them stay confident with strangers, children and other dogs. Teach a reliable recall from puppyhood: an Old English Sheepdog on a chase will not come back. Harsh methods damage trust.
Food & Nutrition
An Old English Sheepdog needs a good-quality complete food in measured meals — two meals a day suit most adults. Treats should be counted as part of the daily intake. Old English Sheepdogs are lean, active dogs and should stay lean — you should be able to feel the ribs easily. Because Old English Sheepdogs can bloat, feed smaller meals and avoid exercise right after eating. A vet can advise the right amount for your dog’s age and weight, and fresh water should always be available.
Grooming
The Old English Sheepdog’s long, shaggy coat needs brushing two to three times a week to prevent tangles, plus trimming every few months to keep the coat in shape. Baths only when dirty. The ears should be checked weekly, nails trimmed regularly, and teeth brushed. Old English Sheepdogs shed moderately to heavily.
Exercise
An Old English Sheepdog needs about 1–1.5 hours of activity a day: walks, play and training games, plus mental work such as scent games and puzzle feeders. They are large dogs with plenty of energy — an Old English Sheepdog needs to run and think every day. Without it, expect chewing, barking and restlessness.
Is the Old English Sheepdog Right for You?
The Old English Sheepdog suits families with space who want a gentle, shaggy companion and can give it 1.5 hours of exercise and regular grooming. It does well in houses with a large garden. It is less suited to owners who dislike grooming, or anyone living in a flat.
FAQs
Are Old English Sheepdogs good for first-time owners?
Yes, for an active first-time owner. They are friendly and trainable, but their size, energy and grooming needs surprise many new owners.
Do Old English Sheepdogs shed a lot?
Moderately to heavily. Their long coat sheds all year and needs regular brushing.
How much exercise does an Old English Sheepdog need every day?
About 1–1.5 hours of walks and play, plus training to keep the mind busy.
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