The OES is a heavy shedder and requires daily brushing to remove dead hair and keep the coat free of tangles. Some Old English Sheepdogs drool so much that the coat around their mouths turns yellow.

Are Old English Sheepdogs aggressive?

Old English sheepdogs are smart but independent dogs. They can be somewhat dog aggressive, particularly the males. A rise in their popularity in the 1970s was not the best thing for the breed, and reputable breeders are working hard to restore the desired even temperament.

Do sheepdogs bite sheep?

“Gripping” is the euphemistic term we use to describe a dog that bites – literally “grips” – a sheep, but it covers a spectrum of behaviour from taking a nip at the fleece as the dog rushes past, to a determined hanging on to, usually, a leg or the tail. Biting the sheep is unacceptable.

Do OES bark a lot?

Old English Sheepdogs don’t need miles of running exercise, but they do need plenty of opportunities to vent their energy and romp about. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored, which they usually express by barking and destructive chewing.

Are Old English Sheepdogs gentle?

The breed standards describe the ideal Old English Sheepdog as never being nervous or aggressive. The New Zealand Kennel Club adds that “they are sometimes couch potatoes” and “may even try to herd children by gently bumping them.” This breed’s temperament can be described as intelligent, social and adaptable.

Do sheepdogs nip?

Not all herding dogs will be stimulated or triggered to herd by the same things. And when they herd, herding dogs can instinctively nip. But before you can train your herding dog to dial back on the herding, you should understand what triggers him or her.

Are sheepdogs good pets?

The well-bred and well-socialized Old English Sheepdog is a trustworthy children’s companion. Some say he will supervise and herd young children, keeping them in a particular area. The good-natured OES is friendly with other dogs and pets, provided he is properly socialized and trained.

How do you train a sheepdog not to nip?

To stop your puppy from nipping at your heels, keep a favorite toy in your pocket. When she does bite, stop moving, then wave the toy around to distract her until she latches onto it. Hanging toys! Using a rope tie a large, durable toy to a tree.

How do you train a sheepdog not to bite?

Be more clear and encouraging. Talk to your dog as much as you can. If you’re talking in a soft, reassuring voice, he’s far less likely to grip. Watch him closely, does he grip at a particular time or after a certain move’ If so, try to avoid that move for a while.

How do I stop my dog from killing sheep?

Training Your Dog Not to Chase Sheep

1. Start with basic obedience training.
2. Take your dog out on a leash.
3. Move towards the sheep.
4. Walk towards the sheep until your dog notices them.
5. Give him a treat, but only when he looks away from the sheep and looks up at you.
6. Stand up and move another few steps towards the sheep.

Are Old English Sheepdogs good off leash?

The love of an Old English Sheepdog knows no bounds. They enjoy socializing with other pets, especially if they can interact with them in an off-leash environment. Old English Sheepdogs are among the most docile of breeds.

How intelligent are Old English Sheepdogs?

Most Old English Sheepdogs are quite intelligent and have a biddable nature. After they learn something, they do not forget it. They do get bored with repetitive, robotic training exercises. If you want to participate in some of those activities, you need to change things up and make it new and fun.

Do sheep dogs howl?

Shetland Sheepdog Shetland Sheepdogs are dogs who howl. These days, our reliable barking (which may segue into a lovely howl) guarantees we’ll ace our jobs as watchdogs and companions.

When should an Old English sheepdog be neutered?

Whilst recommendations vary, vets typically suggest that you should have your Old English Sheepdog spayed or neutered between the ages of four and nine months.

Why do Old English Sheepdogs have no tails?

A signature of the breed is its gait, said to resemble the shuffle of a bear. The tails were docked to indicate working status, and the breeding of Old English Sheepdogs with short or missing tails was encouraged in the 1888 breed standard. Tail docking is now illegal unless the dog fulfills a specific working duty.

Why do Old English Sheepdogs have long hair?

The American Kennel Club breed standard calls for an Old English Sheepdog’s skull to be covered with hair. Because the dog’s fur naturally grew long in front of their eyes, people thought it was better to leave the fur alone. Their thinking was that the fur worked as a natural sunscreen for the dogs’ eyes.