Old English Sheepdog Care Guide: Essential Tips for Owners

Old English Sheepdogs have a temperament that is described as gentle, intelligent, and adaptable Though bred as a working dog, the OES of today is ideally suited as a family companion, thanks to their genial and patient demeanor. This understanding of their personality is key to delivering suitable care.

These dogs can be very playful and even clownish and often keep their youthful exuberance long into adulthood. But not all their behavior is silly — Old English Sheepdogs are highly intelligent dogs and they crave mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. They normally develop tight bonds with their families and can be very protective — but not aggressive. For exercise, Old English Sheepdogs need moderate to high exercise. In spite of those somnolent looks when lounging at home, these dogs require regular physical activity in order to stay healthy and happy. Lack of outdoor activity can also result in some behavioral and even health issues. Old English Sheepdog exercise requirements usually consist of:

1. Daily walks (at least 60 minutes)
2. Knowing the right regular playtime that is able to trigger their herding instincts
3. Weekly opportunities for more intense exercise such as hiking or swimming
4. Brain games, using puzzle toys, training
5. Run indoors (safe benefits) Also, Old English Sheepdogs are heat-sensitive due to their double coats. In warm weather, exercise should be scheduled for the cooler parts of the day, and fresh drinking water should always be offered. In hot summer months and during midday hours, indoor plays may be event more suitable. The exercise needs of young Old English Sheepdogs should be carefully managed to avoid injuring still-developing joints. While puppies require ample play and movement time, structured exercises such as leashed walks are best introduced in small increments and gradually increase as they grow. No high-impact activities (like jumping or stair climbing) until your OES is completely grown – usually by 18-24 months of age.

Grooming and Hygiene Needs

Coat care is the most labor-intensive part of Old English Sheepdog maintenance. Owners need to be prepared to put a grooming routine into place! This should include:

• 2–3 times/week minimum of thorough brushing
• Line brushing techniques to go through all layers of the coat
• Regular checks for mats, particularly behind ears, under the armpits, and around the collar area
• Full coat, professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
• Bathing every 4-6 weeks (with dog-specific shampoo)

Many OES owners choose the "puppy cut" or shorter clip, especially during the summer or if daily grooming isn't practical. This style cuts a lot of maintenance while still maintaining the OES look. If you decide to keep the full coat, quality grooming tools will be a must:

1. Slicker dog brush — help remove loose/shedding hair with a high-quality slicker brush for daily maintenance
2. An undercoat rake for the thick undercoat
3. A finishing and fluffing pin brush
4. Detangling spray for those minor mats
5. If you plan to maintain the coat at home: Professional-grade clippers

In addition to coat care, Old English Sheepdogs require grooming to meet other hygiene needs. Their droopy ears can hold moisture and debris, making them prone to infections. Weekly ear-cleaning and checks with vet-approved solution should be in your routine. Long facial hair could also trap food residue or lip color, so frequent face washing and maintaining a clean area around the mouth can assist with cleanliness.

Dental care can be easily missed because dental disease is so prevalent in many dog breeds. Brush your Old English Sheepdog's teeth several times a week with dog toothpaste for optimal oral protection. Dental chews and routine professional cleanings at your veterinarian's office can also help maintain good oral health.

Another important part of Old English Sheepdog care is nail trimming. Nails should be clipped every few weeks, usually about 3-4 weeks based on their activity level and living conditions. Many OES dogs have pale-colored nails, where the quick (blood vessel) is visible, making trimming a little less intimidating for their owners. But if you feel uncomfortable about nail trimming, veterinarians and professional groomers can do this for you.

One grooming aspect specific to Old English Sheepdogs is their eyes. If their beards are not kept at bay and trimmed, their facial hair can irritate their eyes causing excessive tears and the involvement of eye infection. Many owners trim the hair and create a so-called "window" around the eyes to enhance visibility and reduce irritation.

Health and Veterinary Issues

Old English Sheepdogs, like all purebred dogs, are prone to certain health issues that owners should know about. If you can monitor their health and visit the veterinarian regularly, your OES will live a long, comfortable life.

The Old English Sheepdog is prone to a host of medical problems; some of the more common issues include:

• Hip dysplasia: A deformity of the hip joint that can result in pain and mobility problems
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A progressive eye disease that causes blindness
• Primary ciliary dyskinesia: A genetic condition of the respiratory system that can lead to chronic infections
• Hypothyroidism: A metabolic disorder impacting endocrine function and general wellbeing
• Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus): A potentially fatal emergency in which the stomach twists

Responsible Old English Sheepdog guardians will collaborate with their veterinarians to create an overall health care regimen. This typically includes:

1. Routine wellness exams (at least once a year for adult dogs, more often for puppies and seniors)
2. Core vaccines according to your geographical location and the lifestyle of your dog
3. Routine parasite prevention against heartworm, fleas, and ticks
4. Recommended dental examinations and cleanings
5. Regular health screenings to detect breed-related problems as early as possible

Nutrition is a big part of the health of an Old English Sheepdog. They need high-quality dog food, suitable for their size, age, and activity level. Keeping to an ideal weight is especially important for Old English Sheepdogs, as being overweight can worsen joint issues like hip dysplasia. Consult with your veterinarian for the best diet and feeding routine for your specific dog.

Heat Sensitivity – Old English Sheepdogs are sensitive to heat. Their thick double coat serves them well for insulation, which can make them prone to overheating in heat. Symptoms of heat stress are heavy panting, sluggishness, and bright red gums. Always ensure there's access to shade and fresh water, and consider limiting outdoor activity to the cooler parts of the day.

Should Old English Sheepdog Ears Be Cropped?

Ear cropping is a surgical procedure that involves trimming a portion of a dog's external ear flap to achieve a standing ear appearance. This practice is widely associated with breeds such as Dobermans or Great Danes but is not traditionally performed on Old English Sheepdogs and not traditionally in the breed standard.

Old English Sheepdogs have medium-sized drop ears that drop-down next to their head. They are an important part of the breed's signature look and, unlike other ears, no correction procedure is required. Ear cropping is a contentious practice in dogs and is indeed banned in many countries, such as most of Europe, Australia, and parts of Canada.

There are a number of facts about ear cropping that prospective or current owners of Old English Sheepdogs need to know:

• Medical justification: Cropping an Old English Sheepdog's ears serves no medical purpose
• Breed standard: The Old English Sheepdog's official breed standard calls for natural ears.
• Unethical: Ear cropping is a cosmetic procedure resulting in unnecessary suffering
• Legality: Ear cropping is banned or restricted in many countries and some U.S. states.

This is why, instead of worrying about how to fix your Old English Sheepdog's ears, being a responsible owner means proper ear care. OES have pendulous ears that can become susceptible to infections unless properly cleaned and dried. Regular weekly checks and cleaning with an appropriate solution is far more beneficial than any cosmetic alterations.

Possible signs you might notice if your Old English Sheepdog has an ear infection:

1. Continuous head shaking or ear scratching
2. Inflammation or swelling in the ear canal
3. Unusual odor from the ears
4. Black discharge or too much wax
5. Extreme sensitivity when the ears are touched

If any one of these symptoms is seen, please notify your vet as soon as possible. Regular grooming such as trimming the hair around and inside the ear canal will help to keep the ears healthy and address issues before they develop.

Should Old English Sheepdog Tail Be Docked?

Traditionally Old English Sheepdogs were docked (partly amputated) as puppies. The practice originated when the breed was used primarily as a working dog; it was believed that docking helped prevent injury when herding and qualified the dog for a tax exemption as a working animal in England.

Nowadays, tail docking is a controversial practice and is illegal in many countries. At the bottom of the list of the Old English Sheepdog breed standard is a country-by-country stance on tails:

• The American Kennel Club (AKC) standard in the United States historically favored a docked tail or a natural bobtail
• Tail docking in the UK and some European countries is banned unless there are medical reasons

The FCI standard now recognizes natural and docked tails.

Please be aware that, if performed, tail docking can ONLY be done by a licensed veterinarian in the first few days of a puppy's life. In adult dogs, the procedure would be classified as a major amputation and would need significant medical justification.

There are some points to note in the conversation around tail docking in Old English Sheepdogs:

• Pain and stress: Puppies do feel pain when they're docked, contrary to what some people previously believed, research shows
• Communication function: Most dogs use their tails for communication with other dogs and people
• Balance function: Tails help balance and movement — particularly in swimming and running
• Personal choice or necessity: Most docking today is not for working necessity, but for cosmetic or traditional reasons

For most pet Old English Sheepdogs today, tail docking serves no functional purpose. For those who are getting an OES puppy, it is a good idea to talk to the breeder about their tail docking practices. Many conscientious breeders are now leaving tails natural in response to shifting perspectives and laws.

If you have an Old English Sheepdog with a natural tail, just know you'll probably have to give it a lot of extra attention to keep the fluff from matting and tangling. This minor maintenance concern is, on the whole, thought to be better than an unnecessary surgery.

Does An Old English Sheepdog Need A Muzzle?

Old English Sheepdogs are by their nature not aggressive dogs that need to be muzzled on a regular basis. In fact, the breed is widely considered to be friendly and good-natured. There are, of course, conditions under which temporary muzzling could be appropriate with any dog breed — Old English Sheepdog included.

Situations where a muzzle may be appropriate:

• When the dog is fearful or uncomfortable during veterinary examinations
• Introducing an injured or stressed dog to new people or animals
• When faced with contentious scenarios where a dog could be scared and/or unpredictable
• As required by particular legislation (like on public transport in some areas)
• In the early stages of behavior modification reactive behaviors

Muzzles must never be used as punishment or for prolonged periods of time. A muzzle should fit in such a way that the dog can pant, drink water, and take treats. Basket-style muzzles tend to be the most humane muzzling option in cases where it's called for, as they allow for some level of airflow and comfort while still preventing biting.

When it comes to muzzling your Old English Sheepdog, however, here are some helpful ways to make it a more positive experience:

1. Take a basket muzzle in the right size and a comfort-type basket muzzle
2. This can help introduce the muzzle gradually with positive associations (treats, praise)
3. Start with small time periods, increasing time slowly
4. Don't leave a muzzled dog unsupervised
5. Make sure the muzzle does not hurt the nose or make it difficult to breathe

Old English Sheepdog owners can avoid the use of muzzles altogether by using proper socialization, training, and understanding of dog body language. OES are typically very easy to train since they do quite well with positive reinforcement training methods and rarely develop the behavioral issues that would usher in the need for a muzzle.

And if you do notice red flags in your Old English Sheepdog, whether resource guarding or fearful behavior, contact a dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist. Dealing with its underlying causes is so much more effective than symptom control via muzzling.

Ensuring a Cozy Living Space

Old English Sheepdogs generally do well in situations where they can enjoy proximity to their human family members. Though their roots are as outdoor working dogs, modern OES are mainly companion animals that thrive best as members of the family, are included in family life, and are permitted to share indoor living spaces. Do you have the setup at home for an Old English Sheepdog?

• Temperature regulation: Due to their dense coats, OES dogs are more sensitive to heat than the cold. Cooling in hotter months is extremely helpful, but heating in winter is limited.
• Flooring surfaces: Polished hardwood and tile can be challenging surfaces for an Old English Sheepdog to walk across safely. These flooring types can lead to more injuries and mobility issues. Area rugs or runners in high-traffic areas can offer greater grip.
• Refreshment areas: Create several comfy rest areas, including at least one in a more serene part of the house where your OES can escape to when they need a break
• Access to the outdoors: Old English Sheepdogs do not need a gigantic yard, but do need to be able to explore the world in an outdoor area safe enough for them to scamper and play.

Old English Sheepdogs generally do not handle long-term separation from their owners very well. These dogs bond strongly with their families and can develop separation anxiety if frequently isolated. If your household schedule will leave the dog alone for long hours each day, an Old English Sheepdog may not be the right breed for you.

Many Old English Sheepdogs like to sleep in the same room as their owners, and whether you invite them to sleep in bed with you is entirely up to you. If you want your OES to sleep in their own space, get a good quality dog bed that is suitable for their large size. Most Old English Sheepdogs appreciate orthopedic beds that support their joints, especially when they get older.

For those with yards, there should be secure fencing. Old English Sheepdogs are not usually escaping artists, but because they are herders by nature, they are likely to chase moving things (cars, joggers, wildlife) if left uncontained. Some very strong OES dogs can be sufficiently motivated to ignore the correction given by an electronic fence, so a physical fence is usually preferable to invisible boundaries.

WebMD says that providing appropriate toys and mental stimulation is also a part of creating an enriching environment. Old English Sheepdogs love a variety of toys, such as:

• Chew toys designed for large-breed dogs
• Treat-releasing interactive puzzle toys
• Balls for herding or similar activities that stimulate their innate behaviors
• Stuffed plush toys for mild playing and carrying

Keep in mind that an Old English Sheepdog's environment is not solely about the physical space available, but also includes routine and stability. These dogs thrive on routine, so regular times when they are fed, walked, and played with provide them with a sense of security and understanding about what to expect.

Compatibility with Family and Socialization

Old English Sheepdogs are known to generally get along well with families, even those with children. It is very important to provide proper socialization so your OES can mature into a well-adjusted, confident companion, and interacts in an appropriate manner with people and other creatures.

The socialization process should start in puppyhood and continue throughout your dog's life. The critical socialization period for Old English Sheepdog puppies is when they are roughly 3-14 weeks of age. Positive exposures to all different people, animals, environments and situations during this period helped to lay the groundwork for a stable adult temperament.

Old English Sheepdog socialization: A detailed socialization plan for an Old English Sheepdog should involve the following exposure:

• Individuals of different ages, genders and appearance
• And many environmental noises (traffic, domestic appliances, storms)
• Whatever they walk on (grass vs. concrete vs. metal grates, etc.)
• Introductions to other dogs and animals with caution
• Natural history (urban environments, parks, veterinary clinics)

Old English Sheepdogs are usually good with children, showing patience and protection. However, they are large enough that they can unintentionally swipe children small enough to get knocked down during play. All interactions should always be supervised with dogs, regardless of the breed. With dogs, both children and dogs should be taught what's called appropriate interaction behavior — kids must be taught to respect the dog's space and boundaries and the dog must be trained to be gentle and calm around kids.

In terms of other pets, Old English Sheepdogs can get along with other pets just fine, as long as they are introduced correctly. Their herding instinct may make them try to "round up" smaller pets in the home initially, but with proper training and supervision, this behavior can change. Early socialization with cats and other household pets generally results in happy relationships.

If you're a family in the market for an Old English Sheepdog, keep in mind that they are very social animals. They develop strong attachments to their families and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. An OES will thrive in a home that:

• Provides consistent engagement and involvement in family routines
• The presence of people in the home frequently
• Opportunities for beneficial social interactions with visitors
• Exposure to new experiences and environments on a scheduled basis

One part of socialization that needs extra attention with Old English Sheepdogs is greeting behavior. They usually get friendly with anyone; sometimes, they can jump up on people with excitement. Being large and strong adults, they require clear training for reasonable greetings from an early age, and appropriate training cannot be overdone.

Old English Sheepdogs should not be aggressive toward strangers but may be naturally reserved or protective. Appropriate socialization goes a long way toward ensuring that this results in good alertness, rather than fearful or overly territorial behavior. A well-socialized OES should note the difference between every day and threatening occurrences and act accordingly.

Obedience class is a great time for socialization, but also a great way to build communication between you and your Old English Sheepdog. They are great environments to learn social skills, better than dog parks or play dates without supervision — puppy kindergarten classes are followed by basic obedience and if needed, advanced training. All this in the safety of your vet's office or a trainer's space (Baker advises looking up local certified dog trainers or asking your vet whom they recommend).

Keep in mind that socialization is not a one-time thing: it should continue throughout your Old English Sheepdog's life, not just as a puppy. Maintaining your adult dog's social confidence and adaptability by continuing to expose them to new experiences, people and environments.

Training The Old English Sheepdog

Training is a necessary part of Old English Sheepdog care that affects both their conduct and your bond with your dog. Although clever, OES dogs can also be independent-minded with a hint of stubbornness, so steady, positive training approaches are crucial.

Old English Sheepdogs excel with positive reinforcement training methods that encourage good behavior through rewards rather than focusing on discouraging bad behavior through punishment. These clever pups soon catch on to repeating behaviors that result in praise, treats, or opportunities to play. Harsh discipline or punishment-based techniques tend not to work with this sensitive breed, and can actually destroy the bond of trust between dog and owner.

It should start as soon as you bring your Old English Sheepdog home, regardless of age. Puppies may not be able to focus for long at a time so training should be shorter and more frequent while training sessions with adult dogs may be longer. Some of the key commands to focus on are:

1. Recall (coming when called) – the safest command, and the one most important for off-leash reliability
2. Loose-leash walking — Especially critical considering the size and strength of adult OES
3. SIT AND STAY — Basic control commands that are useful in various circumstances
4. Leave it and drop it – Essential for avoiding consumption of toxic material
5. Soft salutations — So that dogs don't leap and hurt people.

In addition to basic obedience, many Old English Sheepdogs are adept at a range of canine sports and activities that stimulate both their mind and their natural talents. Consider exploring:

• Herding trials or instinct tests (playing into their natural abilities)
• Rally obedience or competitive obedience
• Therapy dog work that makes use of their gentle temperament
• Active dog sports other than agility (including but not limited to, appropriate attention to maintaining joint health)
• Scent work or tracking games

An exercise you need to take particular care of regarding Old English Sheepdogs is managing their herding instinct. Although an OES is not likely to be as intense as some other herding breeds, they may try to herd anything that is moving, from children to bicycles to cars. It may be tempting to "let it slide," but this behavior is dangerous to both the dog and others, so reliable recall and impulse control training are key.

Successfully training an Old English Sheepdog means knowing how to work with, not against, their unique personality traits:

• Intelligence: Offer mental challenges and variety in their training to keep them from getting bored
• Train independent offer: Make it desirable to make it option to work together
• Sensitivity: Gently assist rather than strict atonement
• Clownish demeanor: Consistent limitations while keeping a sense of humor

With proper routine and frequent opportunities to potty outdoors, house-training of Old English Sheepdogs is usually simple. Adult dogs typically catch on quickly, while puppies need extra caution and patience. Having a regular schedule of meals and access to the outdoors will make your OES more successful in this area.

Many Old English Sheepdogs benefit from crate training. A crate gives them a safe place to call their own, and it can help them with house training. The crate needs to be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. Introducing the crate gradually as a positive space, never as punishment and never leaving your dog crated for long periods of time.

Training is not just about the commands you teach — it's about establishing communication and building trust. Investing time at first to train your Old English Sheepdog will pay off over the years together when you have a well-mannered buddy who knows his boundaries and what is expected of him.

Conclusion

When you bring an Old English Sheepdog into your home, you are welcoming a loveable companion with a unique look and endearing personality. However, the rewards of living with this incredible breed far outweigh the effort required to maintain such a dog (and putting in the effort upfront is so worth it once you have your beautiful dog).

However, the key to Old English Sheepdog ownership is understanding and embracing their uniqueness. Poodles have lots of energy, intense intelligence, and gentle spirits that harmonize living conditions, and are very adaptable dogs likely to make wonderful family companions and can be happy in most homes given basic needs are provided.

Keep these important points in mind when caring for your Old English Sheepdog:

• Adhere to a routine of grooming to ensure that their beautiful coat doesn't collide with health and/or matting
• Use engaging, positive training that appreciates their intelligence and sensitivity
• Lots of outdoor exercise balanced with family time and lots of hugs
• Be diligent about health care, particularly breed-specific issues
• Socialization should be a priority throughout their life to ensure they remain as friendly as they were as puppies

Most importantly, know and love the Old English Sheepdog for what it is. Their regal demeanor combined with exaggerated comic behavior, their loyal, ne'er-say-die devotion to their family along with gentle self-confidence, and their instantly recognizable profile, which turns heads and attracts attention wherever they go — these are the qualities that have charmed the breed-oriented among us for generations.

Yet with the right care, training and love, your Old English Sheepdog will become more than just a pet — they will be a well-loved family member who fills your life to overflowing with their companionship. The time you spend learning about and providing for their particular needs will be paid back in spades by loyal companionship and protection, and the unique joy of having one of these wonderful dogs in your life.

If you choose to experience them for all their nuances, the Old English Sheepdog offers one of the most fulfilling canine relationships in existence. Not only will your polished OES be a stunning specimen of the breed, but it will serve as an embodiment of the unique relationship that exists between devoted humans and the beloved pups they dote upon.