Old English Sheepdog

• Gentle
• Enthusiastic
• Protective
• Loyal
• Intelligent

Old English Sheepdog History

They originated in 19th century England and it is thought that they descended from a mix of breeds such as the Briard, Bearded Collie and the Polish Lowland Sheepdog.

Commonly known as the Bobtail or the Dulux dog (they are used in advertisements for Dulux paints).

They were used to herd livestock and traditionally tails were always docked. The practice of tail docking came about as a result of taxation laws that required working dogs to be docked as evidence of their working status.

The Old English Sheepdog breed was officially recognised by the English Kennel Club in 1873.

Old English Sheepdog Characteristics

Their thick shaggy double coat is high maintenance and requires daily grooming to avoid matting and bad odours. If not being shown, they can be fully clipped every two months.

Coat colours include grey, grizzle, blue, blue grey, blue merle, grey with white markings or white with grey marking.

These fun loving dogs are suitable family pets.

Old English Sheepdog Health Issues

Average lifespan is 10-12 years.

Common Illnesses include;

• Cancer ; most likely osteosarcoma (cancer of the bone), mammary gland tumour (breast cancer)  and lymphosarcoma (cancer of the lymphatic system)
• Hip Dysplasia – Abnormal formation of the hip joints causing early onset degenerative joint disease.
• Epilepsy – Recurrent seizures.
• Juvenile  Cataracts - Clouding of the lens causing blurred vision to blindness in young dogs.
• Atopic dermatitis – Hypersensitivity to environmental allergens causing intense pruritus and inflammation of the skin resulting in skin trauma and infection.
• Cerebellar Abiotrophy – Affected dogs are normal at birth but develop neurological signs that progress to complete immobilization.
• Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) – A condition resulting in abnormal cartilage or bone development. It will cause early onset osteoarthritis if not treated.
• Autoimmune diseases – This breed suffer from a variety of immune mediated diseases.
• Hypothyroidism – Underactive thyroid gland causing obesity, lethargy, ear infections and skin problems.