Old English Sheepdog Breed Profile

Description

A strong, compact, square, balanced dog. Taking him all around, he is profusely, but not excessively coated , thickset, muscular and able-bodied. These qualities, combined with his agility, fit him for the demanding tasks required of a shepherd's or drover's dog. Therefore, soundness is of the greatest importance. His bark is loud with a distinctive "pot-casse" ring in it.

Coloring

Any shade of gray, grizzle, blue or blue merle with or without white markings or in reverse.

Temperament

An adaptable, intelligent breed of even disposition, and a funny, social, and adaptable temperment.

Origin

The Old English Sheepdog is a young breed, only being traced to the 1800Æs. The first OES arrived in the United States in 1885, and was popular with the sheep raising and farming community. With their hair coat, they were perfect for working the fields in the sometimes unpredictable weather in the western US. Originally the OES tails were docked to signify that they were working dogs, and therefore exempt from taxes.

Care Level

Medium