Yes, Old English Sheepdogs have tails, although some puppies are born naturally bob-tailed. The American Kennel Club breed standard calls for docking the tail close to the body when the dog is a puppy. Docking is a procedure where a portion of the tail is surgically removed to achieve the desired length and appearance. In some countries, tail docking is prohibited or restricted by law and is medically unnecessary.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs are double-coated dogs. They have a dense, hard outer coat and a waterproof undercoat. The profuse outer coat is long and shaggy, often appearing somewhat unkempt. The undercoat provides additional insulation and warmth. Brushing several times a week is recommended to remove loose hair and prevent tangles, especially around areas like the ears, legs, and tail.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs shed, but their shedding is not as noticeable as it is with some other breeds. Their long, dense, and shaggy double coats tend to trap loose hair rather than letting it fall out all over the house. However, they do require regular grooming to manage shedding and prevent matting.

Old English Sheepdogs can be any shade of gray, grizzle, blue, or blue merle, with or without white markings.

Old English Sheepdogs are a large breed. Adult Old English Sheepdogs usually weigh between 60 and 100 pounds and stand 21 inches or taller at the shoulder. Female Old English Sheepdogs are slightly smaller than males.

Old English Sheepdogs stop growing in height by around 12 to 18 months of age. However, they continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are about two to three years old. Like many large breeds, their growth plates take longer to close compared to smaller breeds, so it’s essential to feed them a balanced diet and avoid excessive joint strain (such as distance running or agility jumps) until they are at least 18 months old.

Old English Sheepdogs live about 10 to 12 years. However, some might live longer with proper care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular veterinary checkups.

No, Old English Sheepdogs are not going extinct, but their numbers have been declining in recent years. Several factors contribute to this decline, including their high maintenance needs, such as grooming requirements and health issues common to the breed, which can deter potential pet parents. Additionally, the breed’s large size and exercise needs might not suit everyone’s lifestyle.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs are relatively rare today, especially compared to their popularity in the mid-20th century. Despite being less common, they are still cherished by enthusiasts and those who appreciate their unique characteristics. Breed clubs and dedicated breeders work to maintain and promote the breed, helping to ensure its survival.

Old English Sheepdogs were originally bred for herding livestock, particularly sheep and cattle. Their intelligence, stamina, and agility made them well-suited to drive herds to market and manage sheep in rough terrains. Their distinctive shaggy coats provided protection against harsh weather conditions, and their natural herding instincts made them invaluable working dogs for farmers and shepherds.

Old English Sheepdogs are from England. They were developed in the early 19th century, primarily in the southwestern counties such as Devon and Somerset. The breed was created to serve as a working dog, assisting farmers and shepherds in herding and driving livestock, particularly sheep and cattle, to market.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs can bark a lot, but this might vary depending on the individual dog. Old English Sheepdogs are naturally watchful and alert, which can lead them to bark to alert their pet parents to perceived threats or changes in their environment. They might bark to announce the arrival of visitors or to protect their territory.

Proper training and socialization from a young age can help teach the dog when barking is acceptable and when it is not. Ensuring they get enough physical exercise and mental stimulation can also help reduce excessive barking that may stem from boredom or pent-up energy.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs are good family dogs. Gentle, friendly, playful, and affectionate, these dogs enjoy spending time with their human family and forming strong bonds with them. The Old English Sheepdog makes for a marvelous, sweet-tempered family companion. These loyal and devoted companions thrive in a family environment where they are included in daily activities and given plenty of attention and affection.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs are usually good with cats, especially if they are raised together from a young age. Early and positive exposure to cats can help Old English Sheepdogs develop a tolerant and accepting attitude towards them. Like many herding breeds, Old English Sheepdogs have an instinct to chase smaller animals, including cats. However, this behavior can be managed and minimized through training and supervision.

Yes, most Old English Sheepdogs are good with other dogs. Early and positive socialization is crucial to helping Old English Sheepdogs develop good manners and appropriate social skills with other dogs. Exposing them to a variety of dogs and situations from a young age can help them become confident and well-adjusted. 

Although Old English Sheepdogs can be friendly and sociable with other dogs, their large size and exuberant play style might intimidate smaller or more timid dogs. Monitoring their play with other dogs and teaching appropriate play behaviors can help prevent any potential issues.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs are smart dogs. They have a curious and observant nature and can figure out solutions to challenges presented to them, whether it’s finding a way around an obstacle or understanding complex commands. Their intelligence is often demonstrated in their natural herding abilities, where they exhibit keen awareness of their surroundings and the livestock they manage.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs can be good guard dogs in certain respects, primarily due to their protective instincts and size. Old English Sheepdogs instinctively protect their family and territory and are alert and attentive to changes in their environment. Their size alone can act as a deterrent to potential intruders.

It’s important to note that Old English Sheepdogs are more watchful and alert rather than confrontational. They might not fit the traditional role of a guard dog that actively confronts intruders, but they can certainly serve as loyal and protective companions for their families.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs can swim, and some might enjoy swimming, but it’s not typically their favorite activity. Their large size and heavy coat can make swimming more challenging compared to breeds that are natural swimmers, such as Retrievers. However, with encouragement and positive experiences, they can become proficient swimmers.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs are cuddly and affectionate dogs. They form strong bonds with their pet parents and enjoy spending time in close proximity, whether it’s sitting beside you on the couch or leaning against you for snuggling and petting.

Old English Sheepdogs are typically moderate to high-energy dogs. They are playful and have bursts of energy, but they are usually calm indoors as long as they get enough regular exercise. Daily walks, playtime, and activities that engage their minds are beneficial. Younger Old English Sheepdogs have more energy and require more exercise compared to older dogs.

No, Old English Sheepdogs are not necessarily easy to train, but they are also not exceedingly hard to train. Training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.

Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent dogs who can have an independent streak, which can make training a bit challenging at times, but with positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency, Old English Sheepdogs can be trained successfully. They respond well to gentle guidance and respect-based training methods that focus on building a strong bond with their pet parents.

Yes, Old English Sheepdogs are good with kids when properly trained and socialized by their pet parents. They are typically calm, patient, and tolerant, which are ideal traits for interacting with children, and are often watchful and attentive toward their family members, including kids.

As with any dog breed, always supervise interactions between Old English Sheepdogs and young children to ensure both the dog and the child are comfortable and safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is also crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child.

Old English Sheepdogs, like all purebred dogs, are prone to certain health issues. Some common health problems that can affect Old English Sheepdogs include:

• Hip dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain and arthritis.

• Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint and can cause lameness and arthritis.

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to degenerate over time, leading to vision loss and blindness.

• Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s lens, which can impair vision.

• Hypothyroidism: A thyroid malfunction that results in low hormone production.

• Sebaceous adenitis: A genetic skin disease that causes very scaly dry skin and hair loss.

• Deafness: Congenital deafness in Old English Sheepdogs can be linked to genetic factors. Dogs with a white or merle coat pattern are more prone to congenital deafness.

No, Old English Sheepdogs are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat with a dense, shaggy outer layer and a softer undercoat. This type of coat sheds and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. People with dog allergies should spend time around adult Old English Sheepdogs before bringing home a puppy to see if they can tolerate being around them.