Old English Sheepdog Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Old English Sheepdog, nicknamed the Bobtail, is a large, shaggy herding dog with a rolling gait and a clownish heart. Its profuse coat is its signature, and it demands as much commitment as the dog's affectionate nature rewards.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in England as a drover's dog, moving sheep and cattle to market. Old English Sheepdogs are large and square, with a thick, shaggy double coat in gray, grizzle, blue or merle and white, a bear-like body and a docked or naturally short tail. The coat covers the eyes and gives the dog a distinctive look.

Temperament

They are cheerful, friendly and sociable. They love family and are good with children, though their size and bounce can be too much for small ones. They may herd by bumping and leaning. They bark loudly. They dislike being left alone. Some can be stubborn.

Exercise

They need about an hour of daily exercise, including walks and play. They enjoy herding, agility and swimming, and are happiest with family. Avoid exercise in heat, since the coat makes cooling difficult.

Training

They are intelligent but can be independent and clownish. Use positive methods, short sessions and patience. Early socialization helps. Teach polite manners before the dog is large. House training is usually manageable.

Coat and grooming

The coat needs brushing down to the skin several times a week, and professional grooming every six to eight weeks, or a short clip to ease care. See double coat dog grooming guide. Keep the hair around the eyes and rear tidy. Clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
• Deafness
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Autoimmune conditions, including thyroid disease
• Heat intolerance. See dog heatstroke
• Ear infections

Living with an Old English Sheepdog

They suit homes with space and a family who will groom. They do not suit warm climates without air conditioning.

A typical day

An OES wants a walk, some play, brushing, rest and an evening outing. They like being near family and following people.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy, clumsy and playful. Begin socialization, handling and grooming. Teach polite manners early. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming costs, food for a large dog and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They suffer in heat, so keep them cool and exercise early or late. They travel well in a large crate or vehicle.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include skipping brushing, exercising in heat, neglecting eyes and ears and leaving the dog alone.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye and hearing tests, and the parents' temperaments. Consider adopting an adult.

The coat decision

Many owners choose a shorter clip, often called a puppy cut, which is easier to maintain, though it requires regular trims. A full coat is beautiful but takes hours each week. Decide before buying a puppy and budget for a professional groomer either way.

A dog that leans

Old English Sheepdogs often lean against people and may try to herd family members. Teach polite greetings and calm manners early, and give the dog tasks, such as carrying a toy, to channel the instinct.

Is it the right breed for you?

An OES suits cheerful, committed owners who want a big, shaggy, funny companion and will groom. It may not suit tidy households, hot climates or those with limited time. For a smaller shaggy herder, see the Bearded Collie.

The takeaway

Old English Sheepdogs are shaggy, funny and devoted, and they need grooming, cool environments and company.