Question 1

Do Old English Sheepdogs need a lot of exercise?

Accepted Answer

Every dog needs some exercise and OES’ are no different. A walk each day in both the morning and afternoon is a good idea (it’s good exercise for us humans too!), and then they will basically lie at your feet for the rest of the day.

That’s not to say that they don’t enjoy a play during the day as well as mental stimulation. Time spent engaging with you can benefit both of you in bonding with one another which is an important aspect of owning any dog, especially an OES!

Question 2

Do Old English Sheepdogs need to have a big backyard or house to roam around in?

Accepted Answer

No they don’t. Although they love a run and a romp on their daily walk! Once you've walked your OES, they’re just as happy to lie down and relax. They’ll find their own place in the house or yard where they feel safe and secure, which is usually near you and sometimes even under your feet!

Question 3

Do Old English Sheepdogs need training?

Accepted Answer

Of course! All dogs require training, especially large dogs such as OES’. All dogs seek structure in their life and need to know what boundaries you set for them so they are able to demonstrate what you seek in a well behaved dog.

Dogs never wish to upset you or cause you grief, they only wish to be your companion and love you unconditionally.

Being a large dog (and known to sometimes be stubborn!), training an OES is essential if you want a dog to demonstrate good behaviour. We recommend regular weekly training for a good 12 months to 2 years at an approved Dog Obedience Club. If you would like some guidance we have a list of all authorised Dog Obedience Clubs in Victoria available for you.

Question 4

Do Old English Sheepdogs eat a lot?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Though they will eat more than a small breed dog, it may be significantly less than you think!

Your vet can recommend what, and how much food and treats you should give your OES. All you have to do is ask!

Question 5

Where can I take an Old English Sheepdog/Do they like going in the car?

Accepted Answer

You can take your OES anywhere dogs are allowed and accepted, and yes, they also really enjoy a trip in the car.

If you’re going for a walk or drive, take your OES. If you’re going to a cafe for a coffee, take your OES and sit outside. If you’re going to the pub or a restaurant, take your dog and sit in the beer garden or at the tables outside the restaurant.

Your OES just wants to be with you - enjoy their company just as much as they enjoy yours!

Question 6

Do Old English Sheepdogs shed and drop a lot of hair?

Accepted Answer

No, they actually don’t! Their coat is semi-hypoallergenic, and for them, their coat acts as an insulation and ventilation to cope with the weather’s changing seasons during the year.

When they do drop some of their hair, it’s like tumbleweeds down a dusty street in an old western’s movie. It’s easy to just pick that up! They certainly don’t shed all over the furniture like many popular breeds do.

Question 7

Can you clip or shear an Old English Sheepdog?

Accepted Answer

An OES uses their double coat to protect their skin and it moves as they walk to ventilate or insulate their body depending on the weather.

Preferably the coat shouldn't be clipped or sheared but one should be careful during the hotter months and avoid walking their OES during the heat of the day. Keep them under the fan and cool air conditioning over summer. Take them for their walk early in the morning and early in the evening. The OESCV has Members in Singapore who have an OES in full coat who follow this common sense advice with their dog.

Cold weather is not an issue for an OES. Their coat provides great insulation and OES’ actually enjoy nothing more than a big romp in the snow!

Question 8

How much coat maintenance do I need to do each day?

Accepted Answer

You don’t have to brush them every day (although some OES owners do, and say it's great for relaxation and bonding), but your OES probably should be brushed at least once a week to prevent their coat from matting.

If you don’t maintain your OES’ coat and it does become badly matted, you will unfortunately have no choice but to have their coat clipped. This is not ideal as it may not grow back the same and may end up more curly and wiry.

If you don’t, or can’t, regularly brush them, you will either have to have them clipped (not recommended), or you will need to have them regularly groomed, which is an expense, but an expense that most OES owners accept as part of owning this beautiful breed.

Question 9

The Old English Sheepdog seems to get so much attention from everyone who comes into contact with them. Why don’t we see many of them anymore?

Accepted Answer

It’s true, Old English Sheepdogs always seem to steal the spotlight wherever they go!  A lot of it comes down to misconceptions about the breed. People often assume their grooming and upkeep are far more demanding than they really are.

While caring for an OES does take some effort (as with any dog), it’s not nearly as overwhelming as many believe. And honestly, once you get to know their playful nature and loving personality, the joys of having an OES in your life far outweigh the extra brushing sessions!

Question 10

Do Old English Sheepdogs have any separation anxiety?

Accepted Answer

All dogs want to be with their owner or family. Some dogs handle separation better than others. This can be a point of contention and there’s no right or wrong answer.

OES’ love being with you, so if you work or can’t take them with you, it’s best to ensure they’ve had their walk and some mental stimulation before you go out. You can also leave them with something to play with whilst you are out so that they are occupied.

If you can take them with you when you go out, there’s no doubt that your OES would prefer to be with you than not, but they are not inherently an anxious breed.

Question 11

Is an OES an aggressive breed, and how are they with children?

Accepted Answer

Any dog can show aggressive tendencies if they’re not trained or socialised from a young age. Old English Sheepdogs are very domesticated and love mixing with people and other dogs or animals if introduced whilst they're young.

OES’ have a very deep and loud bark which can lead to people thinking they may bite or be dangerous. Strangers may be wary of them, especially as they’re a big dog, but they’re all fluff and bravado!

They’re certainly not an aggressive or dangerous breed and they’re not known for biting or attacking at all. They were originally bred as a herding dog to drove sheep and cattle to market, not for hunting, retrieving or protection/security.

OES' love to be around people, especially children. However, they may try to herd them into a corner (being bred as a herding dog)!

They have a very accepting, friendly, and loving personality, and see themselves as a frolicking clown that will put a smile on your face or make you laugh.

OES’ are all fluff, and whilst they’re a strong dog who can be a little stubborn and clumsy, once you’ve trained them to understand their boundaries, their nature is very gentle, friendly and engaging with everyone they meet.

Frequently asked questions