Height: 21-25 inches
Weight: 65-80 lbs.
Life Span: 12-13 yrs.
Breed Group: Herding Dogs
Overview
Old English sheepdogs are generally good natured and fun loving, but lifetime
training and socialization must begin from early puppyhood.
Without that attitude and commitment from his owner, the sheepdog can become
stubborn and unmanageable.
Appearance
The Old English sheepdog's outercoat is shaggy, profuse, and hard in texture;
its undercoat is a dense, waterproof pile. Coat color is shades of gray,
grizzle, blue, or blue merle, sometimes with white markings.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
Old English sheepdogs require an enormous amount of grooming--about an hour
a day of brushing and combing to avoid serious matting. They need a lot
of daily exercise.
Origins
The Old English sheepdog was developed in England in the 19th century to
drive sheep.
Special Alerts
It is especially important to obtain an Old English sheepdog from a reputable
breeder. Old English sheepdogs must have experienced owners who can devote
much time to their care and who live where the dog's exercise requirements
can be met.
Breed-related health concerns: hip dysplasia, juvenile cataracts,
progressive retinal atrophy, cervical vertebral instability (a malformation
of the neck vertebrae causing a wobbly gait), bloat, deafness.
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
