If you've ever previously owned or had a chance to play with an Old English sheepdog, then you know that they have a sweet demeanour and that they are very intelligent. Their soft fur matches their personality. These dogs are very hard workers, but if given loving attention and plenty of exercise, they have adjust well to being family pets. As well as being friendly, sheepdogs provide great companionship to their human families. Go to the library, or do some online research and you will understand why they are so popular in both the country and the city.
Although very few records were kept of the origins of Old English sheepdogs, they were first shown in England in 1873 as the “Shepherds Dog.” During the 1880’s they were exported to the United States where they became very popular, particularly with the wealthier families. During this time they also came into prominence in western England where they were used and bred for herding and protecting sheep. Obviously the breeders succeeded, as they created a dog that is intelligent, hardy and protective of its charges.
Since they came from hardy stock and they were bred for working with sheep where they do a lot of running and herding, these dogs need plenty of exercise, both physical and mental. They need to run around outside for physical exercise and they need mental challenges to keep them from getting bored.
When they get these physical and mental stimulations on a regular basis, they are extremely playful and sweet. They make excellent companions for active children and other dogs. Because they are quite intelligent, you may also find that they will sometimes be headstrong and stubborn.
Since they were originally bred to herd and protect sheep, these dogs require something to take care of, which is why they are such great companions for children. They are also excellent stock dogs for farms that have animals that need protection. Since these dogs need activities, exercise and purpose in their life, they will suffer if they are neglected. Old English sheepdogs do their best when they are surrounded by loving attention. So, make sure that you are ready to give this breed the care, attention and activity it needs.
Looking at their long, fluffy fur, you would expect that it would be difficult to take care of their coat, however, it is only marginally more difficult than taking care of a dog with a shorter coat.
Puppies should be brushed regularly to help them get used to being groomed. This will insure that when they grow up, they will be used to having a thorough weekly brushing. Because a thorough brushing can take close to an hour, many people simply clip their sheepdog's fur short during warmer weather and let it grow back for winter. This will cut down the time for the weekly brushing, but it does change the appearance of the dog. You won’t recognize it as a sheepdog. A neighbour a few doors down the street does this with his old sheepdog. The first time he did it, I didn’t recognize the dog and wondered what it was. The old dog felt good though, as he was prancing about the neighbourhood which contrasted with his usual slow gait.
In conclusion, the Old English sheepdog is a great family dog, especially if you have a large yard for it to run in or have time to take it for daily walks or runs. You should also try to have a family member at home as much as possible so the dog isn’t alone all day. As previously mentioned, they do not do well when left alone for extended periods. Old English sheepdogs need social interaction to keep them happy and healthy.
Until next time,
Teia
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