Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is one of those breeds that makes you smile just looking at them. With their shaggy, bear-like appearance and that distinctive peek-a-boo fringe covering their eyes, they're like a living, breathing teddy bear that weighs up to 45 kilograms! Originally bred as drovers' dogs to move sheep and cattle to market, these gentle giants have evolved into beloved family companions across Australia.

Don't let their fluffy appearance fool you into thinking they're couch potatoes. These dogs were built to work and still carry that heritage in their bones. They're incredibly intelligent, often described as having plenty of "room for brain power" in their capacious skulls, and they love having a job to do – even if that job is simply being your family's devoted companion.

In Australian homes, Old English Sheepdogs adapt remarkably well to family life, showing patience with children and forming strong bonds with their humans. They're the type of dog that wants to be wherever you are, whether that's helping with the gardening in your Perth backyard or joining the family for weekend camping trips to the Grampians. Their moderate energy levels mean they're happy with daily walks and play sessions, but they also appreciate having that "off switch" when it's time to relax indoors during those hot Australian summers.

Health

Old English Sheepdogs are generally robust dogs with a lifespan of 10-12 years, but like many large breeds, they're predisposed to certain health conditions that Australian owners should be aware of. Hip dysplasia is one of the most common concerns, where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis later in life. You'll want to watch for signs like reluctance to jump up into the ute or shifting weight to their front legs.

Eye conditions are another consideration, particularly Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which can eventually lead to blindness. Responsible Australian breeders will screen for these conditions, so always ask to see health clearances when choosing a puppy. Autoimmune thyroiditis is also seen in the breed, causing symptoms like weight gain, lethargy, and coat changes – something that's particularly noticeable given their magnificent fur coat.

Some Old English Sheepdogs can experience Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC), which is especially relevant in Australia's warmer climates. This condition causes weakness in the back legs during intense exercise, particularly in hot weather, so it's crucial to time exercise sessions during cooler parts of the day in places like Darwin or Brisbane. Heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy and hereditary deafness can also occur, though DNA tests are now available for many of these conditions.

The good news is that working with a reputable breeder who conducts proper health screening significantly reduces these risks, and regular veterinary check-ups can catch many issues early when they're most treatable.

Feeding

Feeding an Old English Sheepdog properly is crucial for maintaining their health and that gorgeous coat. These large dogs require a high-quality diet that's appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Australian owners should expect to budget more for food than they would for smaller breeds – a fully grown OES can easily consume 3-4 cups of premium dry food daily, split between two meals.

Most adult Old English Sheepdogs do well with breakfast and dinner, but puppies need three meals a day due to their higher metabolism and rapid growth rate. The key is finding a complete and balanced diet that meets Australian standards – look for foods that comply with local pet food regulations rather than relying on supplements.

Portion control is essential because these dogs can be prone to weight gain, especially if they're not getting enough exercise. An overweight Old English Sheepdog faces increased risks of hip problems and other health issues. Your local Australian vet can help determine the right amount based on your dog's body condition score, not just their weight on the scales.

Fresh water should always be available, which is particularly important in Australia's climate. During hot summer days in places like Adelaide or Perth, you might notice your OES drinking more than usual – this is normal, but always ensure they have access to clean, cool water. Some owners find elevated food bowls helpful for these tall dogs, though there's ongoing debate about whether this prevents bloat in large breeds.

Grooming

Here's where Old English Sheepdog ownership gets real – that magnificent double coat requires serious commitment. You'll need to set aside 3-4 hours every week for thorough brushing, and this isn't negotiable if you want to keep your dog comfortable and mat-free. Many Australian owners find it helpful to establish a grooming routine early, perhaps during the cooler evening hours when it's more comfortable for both dog and owner.

The coat serves as both the breed's crowning glory and its biggest challenge. Without regular brushing, the fur becomes matted against the skin, trapping moisture, dirt, and debris – particularly problematic in Australia's varied climate conditions. After beach walks along the Gold Coast or bush hikes in the Blue Mountains, you'll need to check for burrs, twigs, and sand that can work their way deep into the coat.

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is almost essential for most Australian owners. Many choose "puppy cuts" for their pets, which significantly reduces maintenance while keeping the dog comfortable during hot summers. Even with shorter cuts, regular brushing between grooming appointments is crucial. Don't forget about those adorable facial furnishings – the hair around their eyes needs daily attention to prevent eye irritation and can be trimmed or tied back for better vision.

Regular ear cleaning is particularly important in humid areas like Brisbane or Darwin, where the thick coat around the ears can trap moisture and lead to infections. Their feet also need regular trimming – keeping "poodle feet" helps minimize the amount of mud and debris they track into your home after those inevitable rainy day walks.

Training and Exercise

Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent dogs with a biddable nature, but they need consistent, positive training from day one. Here's a golden rule from experienced breeders: never let your adorable puppy do something you wouldn't want a 45-kilogram, possibly muddy dog doing in your house. That cute jumping up for cuddles becomes less charming when they're fully grown and you're wearing work clothes!

These dogs get bored with repetitive training, so keep sessions interesting and fun. They excel at obedience, agility, and even tracking activities – many Australian dog clubs offer competitions perfect for channelling their intelligence. Early socialisation is crucial, especially given their size and natural wariness of strangers. Puppy school and regular exposure to different people, animals, and situations will help develop a well-rounded adult dog.

Exercise needs are moderate but consistent. A daily walk, some backyard play, and mental stimulation will keep most Old English Sheepdogs content. They're excellent companions for weekend camping trips or beach walks, but remember their thick coat means timing is everything in Australia's climate. Early morning or evening exercise works best during summer months, especially in northern regions.

Their herding background means they might try to "manage" family members, particularly children, by gently bumping or nudging them in the desired direction. While endearing, this behaviour needs guidance to ensure it doesn't become problematic. These dogs thrive on having a job to do, even if it's just carrying their own lead or helping bring in the washing from the line.

Ideal Owner

The perfect Old English Sheepdog owner in Australia is someone who understands that this breed is a lifestyle commitment, not just a pet choice. You'll need adequate space – while they can adapt to larger apartments in cities like Sydney or Melbourne, they're happiest with a secure backyard where they can potter about and supervise family activities.

Time commitment is crucial. Beyond the weekly grooming marathon, these dogs need daily companionship and don't cope well when left alone for extended periods. They're ideal for families where someone is home most of the day, retirees who want an active companion, or households where family members have staggered schedules. FIFO workers or frequent travellers might want to consider other breeds unless they have reliable support networks.

Financially, you need to be prepared for the ongoing costs of large dog ownership. Food bills are substantial, veterinary costs are higher (medications are dosed by weight), and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks adds up quickly. Pet insurance is worth considering, especially given some of the breed's potential health issues.

The ideal owner also embraces the "shaggy dog" lifestyle – you'll have long white hair on your clothes, furniture, and probably in your coffee. Muddy paws after rain, dripping whiskers after drinking, and the occasional bit of drool are all part of the package. If you're house-proud or prefer minimal maintenance pets, this probably isn't your breed. But if you want a gentle, intelligent, loyal companion who'll be your shadow and your children's patient protector, an Old English Sheepdog might just be perfect.

Interesting Facts

- Despite their name, Old English Sheepdogs aren't particularly "old" – the breed was developed only about 200 years ago

- They were originally called "bobtails" because their tails were traditionally docked for tax purposes (working dogs were exempt from certain taxes)

- The breed's ancestry may include dogs from Scotland and even Russia, not just England

- They appear in Disney's "The Little Mermaid" as Prince Eric's faithful companion

- Their distinctive bear-like gait is actually quite nimble – they're surprisingly agile for their size

- The profuse coat was never meant to be excessive – it developed naturally to protect working dogs from harsh weather

- They were originally used to drive both sheep and cattle to market, not just sheep

- The breed standard specifically mentions their skull should provide "plenty of room for brain power"

- Their eyes can be dark brown, blue, or one of each colour

- They're known for their distinctive loud, ringing bark that makes them excellent watchdogs

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Old English Sheepdogs good with children?

Absolutely! They're naturally gentle and patient with kids of all ages, making them excellent family companions. However, due to their large size, interactions with very small children should be supervised to prevent accidental knocking over during enthusiastic greetings.

How much grooming do they really need?

You'll need to commit to 3-4 hours of thorough brushing every week, plus professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Many Australian owners opt for shorter "puppy cuts" during summer months to make maintenance easier while keeping their dog comfortable in the heat.

Can they live in apartments?

While they can adapt to larger apartments, Old English Sheepdogs are happiest with some outdoor space. They're surprisingly good indoor dogs with an "off switch," but they need daily exercise and mental stimulation. Consider your building's size restrictions and nearby park access.

Do they shed much?

They're actually average shedders, but the hair they do lose is long and noticeable. Regular brushing helps manage loose hair, but you'll still find those distinctive long white hairs on your clothes and furniture.

Are they suitable for first-time dog owners?

While they're intelligent and eager to please, their size, grooming needs, and exercise requirements make them better suited to experienced dog owners or those willing to invest significant time in learning proper care techniques.

How do they cope with Australian heat?

Their thick double coat can make hot weather challenging. Time exercise for early morning or evening during summer months, ensure plenty of shade and water, and consider professional grooming to keep them comfortable in warmer climates.