More About The Breed

The Old English Sheepdog is a surprisingly adaptable creature. They are comfortable indoors and make a very good house pet. Their first priority is being with their human family. However, like most dogs – especially the larger breeds – they need exercise at least once or twice per day. They won’t do well alone in a backyard.

Due to their intelligence, curiosity and outgoing nature, the OE Sheepdog requires stimulation. This makes them especially good at agility, flyball, and other herding-type activities. Although the Old English Sheepdog can overheat pretty quickly, they are sturdy in very cold weather.

Setting aside the time-consuming commitment required to groom the Old English Sheepdog, these dogs are beloved by their owners as the quintessential “man’s best friend.” The OE Sheepdog is a spectacular family dog. They are friendly, outgoing, warm-hearted, comical, and well-behaved, after being relatively easily trained. They are highly trainable and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. As long as their owner understands what’s involved with keeping that enormous, shaggy coat clean and neat, the owner experience is a loving bond that lasts a lifetime.

A well cared for, properly nourished, and healthy Old English Sheepdog generally lives 10 to 12 years.

The Old English Sheepdog has a supporting role in Disney’s The Little Mermaid and 101 Dalmatians. In The Little Mermaid, Prince Eric’s dog is an Old English Sheepdog named Max. In 101 Dalmatians, an OE Sheepdog named Colonel assists with the rescue of the Dalmatian puppies.