The Old English Sheepdog is known as a powerful, compact and well shaped dog. At a first look you will be able to see the topline lower at the shoulders displacing higher towards the back end. The chest is wide and big. The main characteristics of this breed are the ears that are medium and which are carried flat to the head, the teeth which meet in a level or by contrary tight scissors bite. The eyes might vary from brown to blue or even one of each colour. Another specific characteristic is given by the legs: the front ones are extremely straight while the hind ones are more round and muscular. At the end of the legs you will be surprised to find some well arched toes. When it comes to the tail, as the name says: Bobtail, the dog is born tailless. The coat is made up of two different textures: the outer coat is long and luxuriant while the undercoat is smooth and waterproof. Its colour can be gray, grizzle, blue, variations of blue like blue gray, blue merle and last but not least gray with white marking or vice versus.

         The temperament of the Old English Sheepdog can be described as a steady and happy – go – lucky one. They possess the ability to easily change to different conditions, they are adoring and friendly. They are perfect for a family , especially for a one that has children because they are easily loved by children due to their friendly and gentle attitude. They have also a powerful herding instinct, but they can be easily taught how to get rid of such behavior. For a better relationship with such a dog you should make some rules from the very beginning and make sure that the dog understands and obeys them. In this way you will avoid a strong – willed behavior from its side. You will be the perfect owner if you manage to combine the firm, calm, confident and consistent leadership. One can easily recognize the bark of the Old English Sheepdog as it sounds like a cracked bell. A positive thing for those who love puppies is the fact that this breed remains puppy – like for a long period and by this I mean a few years, but then it`s the age that tends to hit them all of a sudden.

         The height and the weight of the Old English Sheepdog varies from dogs to bitches. The dog`s height is from 22 to 24 inches (56 – 61 cm) while bitches don`t grow more than 20 – 22 inches (51 cm). When it comes to their weight, we can only refer to their average dimension: the dogs can reach 65 pounds (29 kg) and the bitches 60 pounds (27 kg). There are also exceptions when they gain over 100 pounds (45 kg).

         If you find this breed perfect for you and your family you should take into consideration its health problems, too: they are prone to IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia), hip dysplasia and cataracts. They are perfect for a small yard and even a flat if they are well exercised. You should take them out for a daily walk, but remember they love hard working and running. The life expectancy of this breed is 10 to 12 years.

Old English Sheepdog Pictures Gallery