Learn More About Old English Sheepdog (Bobtail)

Summary

The Old English Sheepdog, also affectionately known as the Bobtail, is a large, powerful dog known for its thick, long and slightly curly coat. He belongs to FCI Group 1, the herding dogs and cattle dogs. The characteristic coat color is usually blue, gray or blue-gray, often combined with white markings. His face is often obscured by his fur, which sometimes falls over his eyes, and he has a distinct "bear" look. His ears are small and droopy, and he has a strong build built for endurance and strength. Its tail is often naturally short or is shortened in some countries. There are no strict distinctions between performance and show lines in the Old English Sheepdog, but you can still see differences in coat length and build between dogs from different breed lines.

Character

The Old English Sheepdog is a wonderful companion who has both an active and loving side. Its origins as a herding dog are reflected in its intelligent and alert character. He is also very affectionate and people-oriented. A Bobtail loves spending time with his family and often develops a particularly close bond with a specific person in the household. As a herding dog, the Old English Sheepdog has an innate instinct to care for its "flock", which in this case is its family. He can be somewhat protective, but he is usually not aggressive. The temperament of the Old English Sheepdog is overall balanced. He is playful and active, but not hyperactive. He enjoys long walks, games and activities that challenge both his body and mind. It's important to note that this breed can also exhibit a bit of clownish behavior, which is often amusing and shows how much they enjoy life. The Bobtail also has a gentle side and can be very patient. This often makes him a good companion for children, although it should be noted that his size and strength make him a better fit for families with older children. Old English Sheepdogs can learn to stay alone, but they prefer being in company and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. It is also important to take care of their coat as it requires regular grooming to avoid mats and skin problems. In terms of hunting behavior, the Old English Sheepdog does not tend to exhibit strong prey-catching behavior, but it can still be stimulated by movement and sound. His alertness and herding instincts make him alert to his surroundings and he can be trained to be a good watchdog without becoming aggressive. In conclusion, the Old English Sheepdog is a loving, intelligent and active companion who is looking for a family willing to give him the time, activity and affection he needs. In the right environment, the Bobtail will be a loyal and happy part of family life, winning over the hearts of its people with its charming personality and endearing nature.

What to Expect

Bobtails are active and intelligent dogs that like to be kept busy. They can be alert and territorial, so appropriate breeding and training is important.

Care

The Old English Sheepdog requires a lot of space and exercise and is therefore more suitable for living in the country or in a house with a garden than for a city apartment. He generally gets along well with children, but due to his size, caution should be exercised around very young children. He can also get along well with other pets, including cats, if he is introduced to them from an early age.

Training & Education

The Bobtail is intelligent and learns quickly, but it can also be a little stubborn. It is important to start training early and be consistent. This breed enjoys activities such as agility, obedience, and herding. Care should be taken not to over-exercise the dog as this can lead to stress. Old English Sheepdogs can sometimes become obsessed with balls or other toys. It is therefore important to offer them a balanced mix of activities and to ensure that they do not become too fixated on a single toy. It is also beneficial to teach them frustration tolerance and impulse control so that they can cope well in different situations. Since the Old English Sheepdog is a herding dog, it is in its nature to herd and protect. This behavior should be channeled appropriately to ensure the dog lives a happy and fulfilling life while being socially acceptable.

Nutrition & Grooming

The Old English Sheepdog's diet should be balanced and nutritious to support his active lifestyle. High-quality dry food supplemented with fresh meat, vegetables and occasionally fish is a good choice. It is important to watch your weight as being overweight can put strain on your joints and lead to health problems. When it comes to grooming, the Bobtail has a thick undercoat and a long, dense coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Thorough brushing is necessary at least once a week, and more often during shedding periods. The Old English Sheepdog copes well with the climate in Germany, but in the warmer months you should be careful that it does not overheat.