Old English Sheepdog
A lovable, shaggy companion known for playful energy and gentle loyalty. Brings warmth and joy to family life with a distinctive bobtail and endearing nature.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
56–61 cm (male)
51–56 cm (female)
WEIGHT
32–45 kg (male)
27–36 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
10–12 years
Old English Sheepdog: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Old English Sheepdog isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Old English Sheepdog's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Old English Sheepdog is known for being gentle, adaptable, and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with family members and displaying a friendly, even-tempered nature.
Key Personality Traits
Warm, welcoming, and enjoys family interaction
Quick learner, responds well to training
Needs regular exercise and mental stimulation
Loves games and playful with children
Adjusts well to various living conditions
Strengths
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Generally good with children
- Strong herding instincts and intelligence
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Distinctive, attractive shaggy appearance
Challenges
- High grooming and coat maintenance needs
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- May herd people or other pets
- Needs regular, vigorous daily exercise
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
Protect your Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdog can develop hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Old English Sheepdogs are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Learns with consistency
Overall rating
This breed is intelligent and quick to learn, but can sometimes show independence; consistent, positive training methods work best to maintain their focus and cooperation.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
Old English Sheepdogs require daily physical exercise and mental stimulation, benefiting from regular walks, play sessions, and activities that engage their natural herding instincts.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Old English Sheepdogs are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Old English Sheepdog would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Grooming and training needs can overwhelm new owners
Apartment Living
Needs space and regular exercise, often struggles in small apartments
Active Lifestyle
Thrives with active owners who provide daily exercise and mental stimulation
Kids
Gentle, patient, and playful with children, making them good family dogs
Multiple Pets
Usually sociable with other pets if properly introduced and socialized
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone and may develop separation issues
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Old English Sheepdogs compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Old English Sheepdog
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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