Old English Sheepdog
Smart, bouncy and family-friendly
Sheepdogs 101
Herding groupThanks partly to a series of "Shaggy Dog" movies featuring the Old English Sheepdog, the breed is easily recognizable. This easygoing breed is one of those with a trademark gait, a shuffle that's compared to the amble of a bear. Relatively easy to train and eager to please, the Old English Sheepdog is primarily kept as a pet, but they're no stranger to various canine sports, and do well in partnership with the people they love.
What we love about Sheepdogs
They can see just fine, thank you!
Very vocal
Talkative
As needed
My pet’s health plannerSM
Mature adult Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Hypothyroid disease
Ear infection
Urinary tract infection
Senior Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Arthritis
Liver disease
Intervertebral disc disease
Sheepdog puppy
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Gastroenteritis
Urinary tract infection
Ear infection
Young adult Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Ear infection
Gastroenteritis
Urinary tract infection
Mature adult Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Hypothyroid disease
Ear infection
Urinary tract infection
Senior Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Arthritis
Liver disease
Intervertebral disc disease
Sheepdog puppy
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Gastroenteritis
Urinary tract infection
Ear infection
Young adult Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Ear infection
Gastroenteritis
Urinary tract infection
Nationwide can help you save on your Old English Sheepdog's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
Get your Old English Sheepdog’s health information in a free report
The Beatles' song, "Martha My Dear," was written about Paul McCartney's Old English Sheepdog of the same name.
Old English Sheepdog coat care and colors
The Old English Sheepdog is a double-coated breed, with a downy undercoat and a long, protective overcoat. As with other double-coated breeds, the dogs “blow” coat in spring and fall, dropping their undercoats. Regular brushing and combing down to the skin will reduce shedding to a decent degree. Many pet dogs are kept clipped short for ease of maintenance. Start acclimating to nail trims early to prevent struggles later. Finally, keep a towel handy -- the OES not only drools but also drips water after drinking.
Does my Old English Sheepdog need haircuts?
Many pet Old English Sheepdogs are clipped short by a professional groomer for ease of maintenance.
How do I prevent mats and tangles in my Old English Sheepdog’s hair?
If your Old English Sheepdog is kept clipped, weekly brushing down to the skin will take care of mats and tangles. If not kept clipped, keeping the long double coat of the Old English Sheepdog in good shape requires more frequent attention, including combing and brushing down to the skin.
How often should I bathe my Old English Sheepdog?
Old English Sheepdogs can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.
Sheepdog exercise & training
Sheepdog fun facts
Top girl names for Sheepdogs
of Sheepdogs are female
of Sheepdogs are male
Top boy names for Sheepdogs
Nationwide loves Old English Sheepdogs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
Other breeds like Sheepdogs
Best. Old English Sheepdog insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
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- Cancel at any time, risk-free