Discovering the Old English Sheepdog Origin Story

The Old English Sheepdog is a beloved breed with a rich history that spans centuries. They originated in England in the 18th century.

Their ancestors were likely small, bearded sheepdogs that were brought to England by the Romans. The breed as we know it today was developed in the 1800s.

The Old English Sheepdog's name is a nod to their origins, but they're not as old as their name suggests. They were bred to herd sheep, not pull carts or perform other tasks.

Their distinctive shaggy coats and gentle nature made them a popular choice for herding sheep in the English countryside.

The Old English Sheepdog's origins are shrouded in mystery, but it's believed that the breed was refined in the Southwest of England since the early 19th century.

The two most likely progenitors of the breed are the Bearded Collie and the South Russian Ovcharka, based on appearance and genetic studies.

The breed was developed primarily as a drover's dog, used to drive cattle and sheep over considerable distances to market, requiring it to be a persistent and calm worker.

As a working dog, appearance was far less of a concern, and when the breed was first shown in Birmingham in 1873, only three 'poor specimens' were presented for judging.

The breed was exported to the United States in the 1880s, where it became a status symbol and treasured pet among the wealthy families.

The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1885, and Henry and William Tilley are credited with formulating the modern breed standard after the foundation of the Old English Sheepdog Club of America in 1904.

The breed's ancestors may include the Smithfield or Cotswold Cor, a bobtailed drovers dog seen in the southwestern counties of England, and the Russian Owtchar.

The Old English Sheepdog was at first called the "Shepherd's Dog" and was exhibited for the first time at a show in Birmingham, England, in 1873, with only three entries.

The breed was used as a drover's dog, moving livestock quickly from one location to another, and its genetics trace to Irish, Scottish, European, and even Russian origins.

The tail was docked as proof the dog was a working dog, making it exempt from taxation, and this practice continues in many countries, including the U.S.

The breed was a noticeable entry at Westminster in 1914, and today it can be seen showing off its unique appearance in the breed ring, winning in competitive sports, herding livestock, and as a loving and loyal family pet.

The Old English Sheepdog's physical characteristics are truly one-of-a-kind.

Their coat is thick, shaggy, and free from curls, coming in shades of blue, gray, and blue merle, with or without patches of white.

With a strong stature underneath their thick coats, adult males typically stand 22 inches or taller, while females are at least 21 inches tall and appear a bit more refined.

Their coats require constant grooming, but the good news is that shedding is minimal compared to other herding group dogs.

A fresh viewpoint: Old English Sheepdog Blue Eyes

Thanks to their very thick undercoats, they repel water well, but if not properly cared for, the coat quickly becomes matted and tangled.

The undercoat can become completely matted right down to the skin if not regularly groomed, and in some cases, it may be necessary to shave the dog.

The body of the Old English Sheepdog is compact, with well-sprung ribs and a broad abdomen, and the back and neck are wide and well-muscled.

Their long limbs have a moderately heavy bone structure, and the small feet are round, with well-arched toes.

The rump sits higher than the withers, giving the Old English a unique, "rollicking bear" type gait, with the head lowered.

However, movement should be unrestricted and flowing, reflecting an inherent athleticism.

Males stand 61-65 cm (24-26 in) at the withers, and can weigh anywhere between 32 and 45 kg (70-99lb), while females are usually 56-62 cm (22-24 in) in height, and weigh 27-36 kg (59-79 lb).

The Old English Sheepdog is a large breed, growing to be at least 21 inches tall.

Their weight ranges from 60 to 100 pounds, making them a substantial addition to any family.

Old English Sheepdogs have a long lifespan of 10 to 12 years, which is a significant consideration for any potential owner.

They are generally good with dogs and families, thanks to their gentle and outgoing temperament.

Here are some key characteristics of the Old English Sheepdog breed:

Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent dogs, with a high level of intelligence that makes them relatively easy to train.

Their exercise needs are moderate, and they require regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy.

Their energy level is active, which means they need plenty of opportunities to run around and play.

As a breed, they are known for their low drool amount, which is a bonus for anyone who's not fond of slobber.

The Old English Sheepdog has a rich history that dates back to Devon, Somerset, and Cornwall, England. The breed was developed from a mix of various breeds, including the Scotch Bearded Collie, Russian Owtchar, Poodle, Deerhound, Briard, and Bergamesco.

These contributing breeds helped create a dog that was perfect for herding sheep and cattle, as they were affectionate, agile, and non-aggressive. British farmers used them for this task because they didn't run away and were great companions.

The breed's signature gait is often compared to the shuffle of a bear, which is quite unique. The Old English Sheepdog's original purpose was to herd and work on farms, not just to be a pet.

The first appearance of the Old English Sheepdog in Britain was in 1873, and in the United States, it was in 1888, the same year the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed.