Old English Sheepdog History and Origin

With its characteristic shaggy coat and bear-like mantel, the Old English Sheepdog has won the hearts of dog fans across the globe. Hailing from the pastoral realms of England, this incredible breed has an extensive history that makes it all the more special. Despite its name, which implies ancient origins, the documented history of the Old English Sheepdog is more recent relative to many of the other breeds. In this extended read, we discover how this quirky herding dog evolved from a rugged working companion to a family pet and show favorite. Come with us, as we follow the Old English Sheepdog evolution through time, exploring its working roots, cultural relevance, and all those influences that eventually merged to make this stunning breed what we know today.

Genetic AncestryIndigenous

There are several theories about the genetic ancestry of the Old English Sheepdog:

1. Some authorities agree that the breed descends from the Russian Owtchar (also called the South Russian Ovtcharka), a large herding breed with a similar coat texture.
2. Others point to Scottish bearded collies as a possible influence
3. Theories connecting the breed to several European herding dogs introduced to Britain in different epochs exist.
4. Some historians suggest that the breed developed from Indigenous British herding dogs that were crossed with other continental breeds

Old English Sheepdog's earliest known ancestors were most probably practical working dogs bred by farmers requiring efficient herders, not dogs with specific looks. Such early predecessors would have been chosen mainly for their working ability, intelligence and adaptability to the difficult conditions of English farmlands.

Where the Old English Sheepdog Came From?

As its name suggests, the Old English Sheepdog is of English origins, more specifically in the southwestern counties. The region contributed significantly to the breed's physical traits and working abilities. The rolling hills, varied geography, and frequently damp, cool climate of these regions helped shape the breed's characteristics.

The original native landscape where Old English Sheepdogs evolved comprised:

• Hilly pastures bounded by stone walls and hedgerows
• Vast sheep pastures need dogs with stamina and herding instinct
• Variable weather conditions, i.e. rain, drizzle, fog
• Steep terrain where it is required to have agile and sure-footed dogs

This environment had a direct impact on how the breed physically evolved. The Old English Sheepdog's dense, shaggy double coat served to protect it from the sometimes damp and frigid English climate. Their size made them hard-workers across tough terrain, their intelligence meant they could solve problems and make independent decisions when managing flocks.

One does not have to look much further than down regionally in rural England to see the sociocultural significance of the Old English Sheepdog. These dogs were not just pets; they were crucial working partners for farmers and shepherds. A significant characteristic of the breed was its close relationship with the rural way of life, as it embodied the traditions of sheep-farming in rural England.

Why Old English Sheepdogs Were Bred

Despite their name, Old English Sheepdogs weren't bred primarily to herd sheep — at least not in the academic sense. Their original working role was actually drover dogs, tasked with helping farmers move cattle and sheep to market.

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In the 18th and 19th centuries, well before transport as we know it, farm animals had to be walked to market towns and cities. The Old English Sheepdog was well suited to that arduous job. Their size, strength, and intelligence were ideal for controlling and guiding large animals over great distances. "The shepherds would own up to four or five of these dogs to keep the livestock in line, control strays, and guard their precious animals against potential dangers along the way."

Specific Tasks and Contributions — Old English Sheepdog:

1. They drove cattle and sheep to market along roads and paths
2. Moving livestock in groups
3. Prohibiting animals from wandering onto cropland or private land
4. Defending cattle from marauding predators and thieves
5. Operation in all weather conditions on varied terrain
6. Empowered to solve problems on their own

Ironically, these dogs were referred to as "bob-tails" or "bobtailed sheepdogs" because their tails were customarily docked. The practice had a practical reason — in 18th century England, working dogs were taxed but dogs whose tails had been docked were exempt because they were classified as working animals, not pets. This tax-evading tactic became so associated with the breed that a bobbed tail became a hallmark.

Some behavioral traits are explained by the Old English Sheepdog's use as a driving dog rather than a true herding dog. Although many herding breeds work by circling, crouching, and applying "eye" to control livestock, Old English Sheepdogs took a more direct approach, relying on their size and presence to move animals forward down a path.

History: From Farm to Show Ring

But the transition of the Old English Sheepdog from a strictly working dog to a registered breed and show dog is an interesting story in its progression. The first recorded references to the Old English Sheepdog as a separate type are seen in paintings and literature from the late 1700s, but the breed did not begin to achieve more formal recognition until the 19th century. A landmark in the breed's history was reached in 1873 when the first Old English Sheepdogs were shown at a Birmingham, England, show. Thus began the transition away from working dogs to show dogs and companions for the breed. In 1885, the Old English Sheepdog Club was established in England, establishing the breed as a true pedigree.

Here is a timeline of the modern Old English Sheepdog's development:

1. Before 1800s: There were a number of variants of working type with no standardized appearance
2. 1800-1870: Starting to be recognized as a breed with distinct traits
3. 1873: First exhibited within dog shows around England
4. 1885: Old English Sheepdog Club founded in England
5. Mid-20th: The American Kennel Club Recognizes the Breed
6. The breed grew in popularity as both working dogs and companions
7. Mid-20th century: Shift toward companion and show dogs

As the breed transitioned from farmlands to show rings though, selective breeding accentuated certain physical traits. The coat grew longer, and denser, and the general look grew more consistent. But such development brought with it some problems; as is common with many breeds, the transition from working dog to show dog did not always put as much emphasis on the original working abilities as it did on appearance.

But responsible breeders have added controls to keep these originally excellent workers' intelligence, trainability and sound structure alive. The Old English Sheepdog of today has had working ability bred out of it, but not all the way in the sense that most specimens will never herd a sheep or bring cattle to market.

The Meaning Behind Their Name: Why Old English Sheepdog?

The etymology of the breed name "Old English Sheepdog" is quite simple but has some nice elements. It is an aggregate of several descriptive elements:

• Old English — Refers to the breed's development in England and sets it apart from newer or foreign shepherd dogs
• Sheep — this links to the breed's proximity to sheep farming but again, as previously mentioned, these were more driving dogs than actual herders
• Dog – An easy descriptor that rounds out the name

It's interesting to note that "Old English Sheepdog" became the accepted name only in the late 19th century, when the breed was officially recognized. Prior to the standardized naming, the breed had many regional names and descriptions, including:

• Bobtail or Bob-tailed Sheep Dog (for their docked tails)
• Shepherd's Dog
• Cotswold Shepherd (after a region in England)
• Smithfield Sheepdog (after the Smithfield market in London)

The designation "Old English" was probably used to differentiate the breed from other sheepdog types, as well as to emphasize its British heritage. This naming convention arose during a time of growing interest in the preservation and classification of native British dog breeds, coinciding with the Victorian craze for dog breeding and dog showing.

Culture The name's cultural significance embodies the stronger ties of the breed's traditional purpose within English pastoral and agricultural society. It harks back to the pastoral lands of England and the centuries-old agriculture that so strengthened the beef breed's heritage and national identity.

Arrival in America: The Old English Sheepdog Crosses the Pond

The history of when Old English Sheepdogs came to America is rather well documented as the breed's American stroll started in the late 19th century. The first Old English Sheepdogs came to the United States in the 1880s, and the earliest known imports were from well-established English kennels. The Old English Sheepdog didn't receive AKC (American Kennel Club) recognition until 1888. This recognition helped to spur interest in the breed among American dog fanciers and laid the groundwork for the continuing popularity of the breed in the New World.

Several social and economic factors converged with the breed's introduction to America that shaped its adoption:

1. The Industrial Revolution produced a wealthy upper-middle class with the leisure and means to keep dogs mainly as companions
2. English breeds were especially desirable, as intellectual Americans were fascinated with English culture and traditions
3. Dog shows were ascendant in America, and they provided a venue to showcase the imported breeds.
4. The shift in agricultural practices has decreased the demand for working dogs, allowing their evolution as companion animals.

The Old English Sheepdog became increasingly popular in America through the early 20th century. By the 1920s, the breed had become popular with a number of wealthy and influential American families, Further elevating the breeds profile. Its unique appearance, intelligence, and congenial disposition made it well-adapted to become a family companion and status symbol.

In 1904, the Old English Sheepdog Club of America was established following the increasing interest in the breed and the need for an organization dedicated to their promotion and preservation in the United States. It was an old english sheepdog club developed in order to specify breed standards and organize competition for Old English Sheepdogs.

Cultural impact of the Old English Sheepdog

However, the cultural impact of the Old English Sheepdog far exceeds its original purpose as a working dog. Over the years, this unique breed has woven itself into popular culture, art, advertising, and entertainment, making it one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world.

Literature and art show the Old English Sheepdog in both its rustic English country setting and more recently as a symbol of that lifestyle. Dogs with a similar appearance are depicted in 18th- and 19th-century paintings with shepherds and rural workers, documenting their role in agricultural communities. Their unusual look made them favored subjects for artists wishing to render a vision of pastoral England.

A major influence of the breed on popular culture occurred during the 20th century with several notable appearances:

• The Old English Sheepdog was featured as the mascot for Dulux paint in 1961, leading to one of the most successful and longest-running advertising campaigns involving a breed of dog
• The Disney movie "The Shaggy Dog" (1959) involved a character who turns into an Old English Sheepdog
• The breed made countless appearances in television shows, movies, and commercials over the second half of the 20th century
• The breed gained status thanks to famous owners such as Paul McCartney and actress Jean Harlow

The uses for which the Old English Sheepdog was originally bred have made a drastic shift. Initially prized mainly for its utility, the breed eventually became associated with:

• Mark of status and refinement for wealthy families
• Beloved family companion, known for gentleness with children
• A true show dog with a unique look about him in the ring
• An ambassador for English agrarian tradition

The evolution from a useful canine to a cultural symbol mirrors a broader transformation in humans' relationship with dogs. With mechanization increasingly displacing working dogs in agriculture, Old English Sheepdogs found a new purpose in life as a companion and symbol of the farm that would keep them identifiable to their owners and a part of their heritage.

Breed Standards and Recognition: The Old English Sheepdog Gets Formalized

Its formal recognition as a breed is a notable event in its history. This gave a specific, documented set of characteristics to what had once been a type of working dog from a particular region.

The creation of breed standards started in earnest in the late 1800s. The initial breed standard was drafted when the England Old English Sheepdog Club was established in 1885. This standard outlined the preferred physical traits, stride, and disposition of the breed.

The first recognition of the Old English Sheepdog by major kennel clubs included:

1. 1873: Debut at dog shows in England
2. 1885: The Old English Sheepdog Club is formed in England and the first formal breed standard is established
3. 1888: The American Kennel Club Recognizes the Breed
4. 1904: Old English Sheepdog Club of America established
5. Other national kennel clubs around the world recognized it in the early 20th century.

Many of the breed standards have remained remarkably consistent through time, although they have been refined and clarified. Ingredients the breed is known for include:

A square, powerful, sturdy body with significant bone and muscle

• The distinctive plentiful, shaggy coat, neither curly nor straight
• Square-shaped head with a defined stop
• Blue-gray, grizzle, or blue merle with white markings weather-resistant double coat
• Which sound movement and good reach and drive

A formal recognition process helped save the Old English Sheepdog at a time when many working dog types were being lost due to changes in agricultural practices. By formalizing breed clubs and standards, enthusiasts made sure that as the Old English Sheepdog's most important function changed from worker to companion, its distinct attributes would remain.

Bloodlines and Notable Kennels: Keeping the Tradition

One great element of Old English Sheepdog lines is within the breed's history. As the breed evolved from a regional working dog to a formally recognized breed, some specific kennels and breeding programs were more successful than others in shaping the modern Old English Sheepdog.

In England, a number of pioneering kennels laid the groundwork for the breed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries:

• Established by Dr. Edwardes-Ker, the Shepton kennels also produced many dominant early champions
• The kennel of Sir Humphrey de Trafford produced dogs famed for their working ability and soundness of structure
• H.W. Harbord's Watchbury kennels would produce many champions that shaped the breed across the world

Several important kennels helped establish Old English Sheepdogs in the New World when the breed came to America:

• Founded by W.M. Dressel, the Dressel kennel imported important dogs from England and produced numerous early American champions
• The influential Farnsworth kennel bred a line that balanced English imports with American-born dogs
• Many of the conformation types of the early 20th century, including the Arktor kennel line, were also recognized for dogs that had both working ability and conformation ability

Among the early kennels, breeders faced certain challenges in both breeding and developing the breed:

1. Training working dogs which would also be competitive in the show ring
2. Introducing genetic diversity within a small founding lineage
3. Maintaining health and hardiness while breeding specific physical traits
4. Adjusting breeding programs in a time of two World Wars that had a major effect on dog breeding across Europe

The commitment of these early breeders ensured the Old English Sheepdog's endurance despite its evolving purpose. Their breeding programs and careful selection made type and consistency while retaining the intelligence, adaptability, and sound structure associated with the original working dogs.

Many of today's Old English Sheepdog bloodlines can be traced back to these influential kennels, and their influence can be seen in genotypes today. These foundation lines are still used by modern breeders when referring to pedigrees and breed development.

Health and Genetics in Historical Context

• The early working dogs were chosen mostly by function and health and soundness were a must as their employment was punishing
• The show ring came to prioritize appearance at times over solutions to working issues, which resulted in some physical exaggeration.
• The small foundation population led to potential genetic bottlenecks

As the 20th century progressed, progress was made in canine genetics knowledge, and breed clubs starting establishing health testing schemes. For Old English Sheepdogs, these worked especially on several health issues that had developed in the breed:

1. Hip dysplasia — A disorder of the hip joint that causes pain and mobility problems
2. Eye diseases - Such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts
3. Thyroid Dysfunction - An Endocrine Disease Found Frequently in Dogs
4. Deafness — More common in dogs with significant whiteness

The Old English Sheepdog Club of America and its British counterpart have played a major role in encouraging health tests and responsible breeding practices. These bodies formed health committees, funded research, and created guidelines for breeders designed to minimize the incidence of genetic disorders.

An important chapter in the breed's development is the history of addressing these health concerns. Today studies have shown that responsible, relevant health testing, as well as proper resultant breeding of sound body and mind, means this legacy continues with conscientious breeders.

Knowledge of this part of the breed narrative makes for an important context for prospective owners and re-affirms the breed community's continued desire to keep the Old English Sheepdog a healthy, useful breed, that retains its working heritage while it also fulfills its present-day role as companion.

The Working Heritage Lives On: Modern Working Old English Sheepdogs

While the majority of Old English Sheepdogs today are family companions and show dogs, a dedicated group of enthusiasts still works to preserve and show the breed's working heritage. And then breeders maintain that part of the breed's history with working dog events and competitions.

On occasion, the Old English Sheepdog may still do its original job in the areas of the world where driving of livestock is still done the old way. However, their working talents are usually shown in organized herding trials and tests. These events assess a dog's innate herding instinct and its ability to work with livestock in a controlled setting.

The herding program of the American Kennel Club, created in 1989, offers opportunities specifically for Old English Sheepdogs and other traditional herding breeds. These competitions give dogs the opportunity to showcase the working skills that were important to their breed's development, including:

• Loading livestock and bringing them to the handler
• Maneuvering animals through a specified course
• Muzzling certain species of animals

In addition to formal herding, Old English Sheepdogs compete in other dog sports that highlight their intelligence, trainability, and physical abilities:

• Agility – The shocking athleticism inherent in their shaggy exterior
• Obedience and Rally — Showcasing their smarts and eagerness to work with handlers
• Therapy work – Their gentle disposition is also utilized to comfort in places such as hospitals and nursing homes

These pursuits link contemporary Old English Sheepdogs with their working roots, even if they're long removed from the English farmlands in which they were originally developed. They show that under all that hair and a unique look this is still a working breed with natural instincts and abilities.

Maintaining these working qualities is a key aspect of responsible breeding. While judging success in the show ring is important, preserving the intellect, problem-solving ability, and physical ability that originally made these dogs such good workers will help these breeds remain true to their heritage as the breed continues to develop.

Conclusion

The Old English Sheepdog has gone through its challenges, and thanks to an evolvement from a helpful worker to a well-loved companion, it has kept its uniqueness and mimicry. From centuries of agriculture to the industrial revolution and modern society, this iconic breed has adapted yet maintained the unique flair that makes it special.

The story of the Old English Sheepdog is not yet a completed chapter. Like all great histories, it remains alive, with chapters still being written by those who love and uphold this iconic breed's legacy. From lowly drover's dog to treasured family pet, show ring contender, and cultural icon-in-waiting, the Old English Sheepdog's journey is among the most successful adaptations in the long and illustrious relationship between humans and their canine partners.