Breeds
Old English Sheepdog: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care
An Old English Sheepdog is a big, shaggy, affectionate, playful herding dog that stays a clown well into adulthood. Sheepdogs are excellent with children and bond closely with their families, but the dense coat is a serious grooming commitment, they dislike heat and they need daily exercise and structure. Here is what VCA Animal Hospitals and the AKC say about the breed.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read3 sources
Old English Sheepdog temperament and personality
VCA describes the Old English Sheepdog as affectionate, social and playful, often into adulthood, and strongly bonded to its family. It notes herding instincts may show up as chasing or nipping, and that the breed can become bored or destructive without enough stimulation.
Sheepdogs are cheerful, bouncy and people-focused, with a famously rolling, bear-like walk. They suit committed owners who enjoy an energetic, sociable dog and do not mind hair.
How big do Old English Sheepdogs get?
VCA gives a height of 21 inches and up and a weight of 60 to 100 pounds, and the AKC's breed weight chart lists the same 60 to 100 pounds. Neither source sets separate ranges by sex.
The huge coat makes a Sheepdog look far bigger than it is. Part the hair and feel for the ribs to judge condition, and ask your vet what a healthy weight is for your dog's frame.
Old English Sheepdog lifespan and common health issues
VCA gives a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Its list includes hip dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, congenital heart disease, entropion, deafness and MDR1 drug sensitivity in puppies; dilated cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism, exercise-induced collapse, wobbler syndrome, diabetes, bleeding disorders and progressive retinal atrophy in adults; and lymphoma and cataracts in seniors.
Ask a breeder for hip, eye, heart and thyroid results and an MDR1 test on both parents, and hearing tests on the puppies. Tell every vet that your dog may carry MDR1 drug sensitivity before any new medication. Fainting, collapse during exercise or unusual bleeding needs a vet immediately.
Exercise needs
VCA rates energy as moderate to high and says Sheepdogs need daily walks, play and structured activity. An hour or so a day suits most adults.
VCA notes the coat makes the breed sensitive to heat, so exercise early and late in summer and provide shade, water and a cool place to rest. Herding, agility and rally suit the breed.
Mental work, such as scent games and trick training, helps tire a playful dog on days when long walks are not possible.
Grooming and shedding
VCA rates grooming needs as moderate to high and shedding as moderate, and says the dense double coat needs frequent brushing, often professional grooming and regular bathing, along with ear cleaning, nail trims and dental care.
Line-brush down to the skin several times a week with a pin brush and slicker brush, then comb through. Many pet owners keep a shorter clip for easier care. Keep hair around the eyes and rear trimmed.
Training an Old English Sheepdog
VCA says Sheepdogs do best with structure and suit committed owners. Reward-based training with clear routines works well with a playful, sometimes boisterous dog.
Teach calm greetings, loose-leash walking and a solid recall early, and redirect any herding nips to a toy. Get the puppy used to long grooming sessions from the first week.
Short, upbeat sessions with food and praise suit a sociable, sometimes clownish dog. Practice recall often and reward calm behavior around visitors.
Are Old English Sheepdogs good with kids and other pets?
VCA says Sheepdogs are generally excellent with children when supervised. Their size and bounce mean toddlers can be knocked over in play.
VCA says they are usually compatible with other pets, though they may try to herd smaller ones. Most get on well with dogs and cats they are raised with.
Exercise the dog before family time and give it a quiet place to rest. Teach children not to pull the long coat or climb on the dog.
What an Old English Sheepdog needs at home
A fenced yard, a large crate, a big washable bed, a cool spot in summer and towels for wet, muddy coats are the basics. Herding balls and puzzle feeders give the brain work.
For the coat, keep a pin brush, a slicker brush, a long-toothed comb, detangling spray, dog shampoo, nail clippers, ear cleaner and a dog toothbrush, and budget for professional grooming. Ask your vet about MDR1 testing.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do Old English Sheepdogs live?
VCA gives a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Hip, eye and heart screening of the parents and an MDR1 drug sensitivity test are worth asking a breeder about.
How big do Old English Sheepdogs get?
The AKC lists males at 22 inches and up and females at 21 inches and up, with a weight of 60 to 100 pounds.
How much grooming does an Old English Sheepdog need?
A lot. VCA rates grooming needs as moderate to high and says the dense double coat needs frequent brushing, regular baths and often professional grooming.
Are Old English Sheepdogs good with kids?
VCA says they are generally excellent with children when supervised. They are affectionate and playful, but their size means toddlers need watching. Your vet can advise on what suits your own pet.
What is an Old English Sheepdog's temperament like?
VCA describes Sheepdogs as affectionate, social and playful, often into adulthood, and strongly bonded to their families. Herding instincts may show up as chasing or nipping without training.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
