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Large breed

Old English Sheepdog Puppies

Best known for its furs, the old English sheepdog is a breed of dog that was originally bred in England. In the past, the old English sheepdog used to be known as a bob-tailed sheepdog and shepherd dog. It is referred to as bob-tailed because of the way it docks its tails. The old English sheepdog is one that can grow coats that are long enough to cover its face and eyes. usually, the old English sheepdog doesn't shed its coat unless it is brushed. Discover more about our Old English Sheepdog puppies for sale below!

  • Great with kids
  • Active breed
  • Alert watchdog

We do not have Old English Sheepdog puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.

  • Exercise 60 min a day
Old-English-Sheepdog

About the Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is a delightful breed known for its shaggy coat and charming personality, deeply rooted in herding history. Originally bred in England for driving sheep and cattle, these medium-sized canines have developed a reputation as endearing family members. Their affectionate nature makes them particularly good companions for families with young children, and they tend to get along well with other dogs and even cats, ensuring a harmonious household.

Read more about the Old English Sheepdog Show less

With an energy level that encourages regular activity, Old English Sheepdogs enjoy daily walks and playtime. While they are not the best fit for apartment living due to their size and need for space, a house with a yard can provide ample opportunities for exercise. Their shedding can be significant, so regular grooming is necessary, and a weekly brush will keep their lovely coat looking its best while reducing loose hair around your home.

Though they are intelligent and eager to please, training an Old English Sheepdog requires patience and consistency. Their independent streak can sometimes make training a challenge, but positive reinforcement works wonders with these dogs. When you bring an Old English Sheepdog into your life, you’re not just gaining a pet; you’re welcoming a loyal friend who will fill your home with love and laughter. If you’re considering adding one to your family, you’ll find plenty of support and resources here at Petland Batavia, Illinois.

Old English Sheepdog breed profile

Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.

Temperament

  • Affection Very affectionate
  • Playfulness Very playful
  • With strangers Warms up
  • Territorial Relaxed
  • Prey drive Low

Family & other pets

  • Young children Good
  • Older children Excellent
  • Other dogs Sociable
  • Cats With introductions

Energy & exercise

  • Energy High
  • Mental stimulation High

Training

  • Trainability Willing learner
  • Intelligence Very bright
  • Stubbornness A stubborn streak

Care & upkeep

  • Shedding Heavy
  • Drooling Minimal
  • Barking Moderate

Home life

  • Apartment living Prefers a house
  • Time alone A few hours
  • Cold weather Comfortable
  • Warm weather Average

A good match for

  • First-time owners Manageable
  • Senior owners Good
  • Running partner Good
  • Hiking Good
  • Therapy work Possible
  • Guarding Alert

Living with a Old English Sheepdog

HISTORY

The origins of the old English sheepdog can be traced back to 19th-century England. Although some people believe it has connections with the Russian owtchar dog while others have said that it is better connected to the Scottish bearded collie. 

At about the 19th century, the old English sheepdog was commonly referred to as a drover. The reason it was called a drover is that it was used to drive sheep and cattle into the market. As a matter of fact, there were no taxes imposed on the old English sheepdog because of their working class. 

For this reason, to further prove their working status, their owners had to dock their tails. The old English sheepdog found its way to America through a man named Wm. Wade in the 1880s. By the turn of the century, five out of the ten richest families in America were already breeding and showing the old English sheepdog. 

TEMPERAMENT

Generally, the old English sheepdog is a great dog to be around. They're easy-going, intelligent, social and very much adaptable. The old English sheepdog typically tries to exert its herding qualities on children and sometimes, its adult owners. 

An old English sheepdog is usually kind, affectionate and playful throughout its lifespan. The old English sheepdog, being a very social dog thrives better when it is amid other animals or when it is allowed in a family.

ENVIRONMENT

The old English sheepdog is one that enjoys the company of both its owners and other animals. This dog should not be locked away in a kennel, as it usually enjoys being with people. The old English sheepdog thrives really well in a family setting that isn't overly active and social.

EXERCISE

The old English sheepdog is a social dog and so it requires a fair level of weekly exercise. When it is still a puppy, it is advisable to allow it to exercise a lot. But as it grows older, it slowly becomes less interested in exercising and moving about. 

Practicing obedience training is also good for old English sheepdogs. Agility training and herding training are also nice ideas for possible exercises for the old English sheepdog.

GROOMING

The most hectic aspect of owning an Old English sheepdog is the grooming part. Grooming the old English sheepdog is such a nice way to waste time as it is quite time-consuming. The coat of the old English sheepdog doesn't shed on its own except its owner brushes it. 

If it isn't brushed regularly, the dog will have lots of debris on its coat. The dogs' coat also grows very long and may need to be trimmed down every now and then. Another important grooming practice is to take care of the mouth area. From regular brushing to good hygienic practices. 

This is because the old English sheepdog drools a lot. This drooling might end up staining the dogs' coat and turning it yellow if not well taken care of.

Our Old English Sheepdog puppies for sale come from either licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. licensed commercial breeders account for less than 20% of all breeders in the country. 

The unregulated breeders who are selling outside of the regulations and without a license are what we consider to be “Puppy Mills.” We are committed to offering Old English Sheepdog puppies who will grow up to become important members of your family. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell.

Caring for a Old English Sheepdog

Grooming
Weekly brushing
Grooming cost
Average
Monthly food
Average
Outdoor space
A yard is recommended
Allergy friendly
Not considered hypoallergenic

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the old English sheepdog referred to as high maintenance? 

It is referred to as high maintenance because of its long coat that needs lots of care.

Does the old English sheepdog shed?

Except when it is brushed, it doesn't shed.

What are the common health problems the old English sheepdog experience?

The old English sheepdog experiences common health issues such as cataracts, hip dysplasia, deafness, heatstroke, glaucoma and sometimes, diabetes. 

What is the average size of the old English sheepdog?

The average size of an old English sheepdog is 46kg.

What is the Life expectancy of the old English sheepdog?

The life expectancy of this dog lies somewhere between 10 to 12 years.

What is the average height of the old English sheepdog?

The old English sheepdog can grow as tall as 11 inches in its lifetime.

How often should I feed my old English sheepdog?

The recommended daily amount of food for an old English sheepdog is 4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily.

Does my old English sheepdog do well in hot weather?

Because of its coat, the old English sheepdog doesn't thrive well in hot regions. 

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Kevin
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Amazing staff. All very nice and answered all my questions. I loved all the dogs but I had to see the dog named Kevin! I went in with a completely negative view on petlands but the staff really changed my mind by going over all the breeder info, If I am ever in need of a puppy I will go there and you should too.
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Cecilia Caballero
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We came at a time they were very busy and never once did we feel rushed, or given attitude while asking questions. The two on staff were amazing and sweet!
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Noelle Chaney
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I went in to get my dogs nails trimmed and was met with a smile and warm greeting from an employee, Dean. The trimming was quick and they really showed my scared dog good care. It was the most pleasant experience I’ve had when it comes to some of these pet places!
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Shayna V
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We just went for a walk”puppy therapy.” Look at how cute they are. I was a little surprised that considering how few customers were in at the time & yet we only got a “let us know if we can help you with anything” and that was it. There were plenty of employees in store, as it was probably the beginning of the Friday night shift, before families started coming in. I had made an appointment, just in case we decided to see any of the dogs. I guess I’m accustomed to the employees being more personal and wanting to tell me things based on the conversation my group is having without me having to reach out to them.
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