The Old English Sheepdog is a striking breed, known for its shaggy coat and exuberant personality. Yet, for all their popularity, misconceptions about this breed abound. If you’re thinking about welcoming an Old English Sheepdog (OES) into your life or are simply curious, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. In this article, we’ll debunk five common myths about Old English Sheepdogs that have persisted for far too long.
Myth 1: Old English Sheepdogs Are Lazy
The Myth: With their fluffy, bear-like appearance, some people assume that Old English Sheepdogs are couch potatoes who spend most of their time lounging around the house.
The Reality: In truth, Old English Sheepdogs are anything but lazy. Bred for herding, these dogs are high-energy animals with a strong work ethic. Originally, they were used to herd livestock, especially sheep, over long distances. This means that they have incredible stamina and require plenty of exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
An under-exercised OES can become bored and may start engaging in unwanted behaviors, like excessive barking, chewing, or even destructive tendencies. Daily walks, play sessions, or activities like agility training can help them burn off energy. While they may enjoy snuggling up with their family, they thrive best in environments where they have ample opportunities to stay active.
Bottom Line: Don’t expect your Old English Sheepdog to be a couch potato. They need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Myth 2: They’re Always Aggressive
The Myth: Old English Sheepdogs are often thought to be aggressive, especially because of their large size and commanding presence.
The Reality: Contrary to this belief, Old English Sheepdogs are typically gentle, friendly, and sociable dogs. They are known for their loving and protective nature toward their families, and many are especially good with children. In fact, they have earned a reputation as “nanny dogs” because of their patience and gentle demeanor around kids.
However, like any breed, temperament varies depending on the individual dog and how well they are socialized from a young age. Proper training and early socialization are crucial in shaping a well-adjusted, confident OES. Exposing them to different environments, people, and other dogs helps prevent any signs of fearfulness or reactivity. The idea that Old English Sheepdogs are naturally aggressive is simply untrue, and when raised in a positive environment, they are typically well-mannered and affectionate companions.
Bottom Line: Old English Sheepdogs are generally not aggressive, but like any dog, they need proper socialization and training to reach their full potential as loving family members.
Myth 3: Old English Sheepdogs Don’t Need Much Grooming
The Myth: The Old English Sheepdog’s thick, fluffy coat might give the impression that they require minimal grooming, as some believe that their natural appearance doesn’t need much attention.
The Reality: Old English Sheepdogs are known for their iconic shaggy coat, which, while beautiful, requires a great deal of maintenance. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting, tangles, and skin infections. Their double coat — consisting of a soft undercoat and a coarser outer coat — is prone to knots, and without proper care, it can quickly become unmanageable.
It’s recommended to brush an OES several times a week to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free. Additionally, many owners opt to trim their dog’s coat to make it more manageable, especially if the dog isn’t being shown in competitions.
Regular baths and professional grooming sessions are also necessary to maintain cleanliness. Neglecting their coat can lead to painful mats, which may require shaving to resolve.
Bottom Line: Old English Sheepdogs require a significant amount of grooming, so be prepared to invest time and effort into their coat care.
Myth 4: Old English Sheepdogs Are All Show and No Brain
The Myth: Because of their fluffy, teddy bear-like appearance, some people assume that Old English Sheepdogs are more style than substance — in other words, they may look impressive, but they’re not particularly intelligent.
The Reality: This could not be further from the truth. Old English Sheepdogs are actually highly intelligent dogs. As a herding breed, they were bred to work independently and think on their feet. They are quick learners who can pick up commands and new tricks with relative ease. In fact, many OESs excel in obedience, agility, and herding trials.
That said, their intelligence can also be a challenge for some owners. They can be a bit stubborn and independent, traits that reflect their working dog heritage. To prevent behavioral issues, it’s essential to engage them in training and mental stimulation from an early age. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement go a long way in helping them become obedient, well-mannered pets.
Bottom Line: Don’t underestimate the intelligence of an Old English Sheepdog — they’re more than just a pretty face and can excel in various activities with proper training.
Myth 5: Old English Sheepdogs Don’t Do Well in Families
The Myth: Due to their large size and herding instincts, some people believe that Old English Sheepdogs aren’t suitable for family life, especially in homes with children.
The Reality: Old English Sheepdogs are often described as the “clowns” of the dog world due to their playful and affectionate nature. They tend to bond closely with their family members and are known to be great with kids. Many OESs exhibit a gentle, patient demeanor around children, making them excellent family companions. While their herding instincts may cause them to “herd” children or other pets by nudging or corralling them, this behavior can be curbed through training.
It’s also important to note that, despite their size, Old English Sheepdogs are generally adaptable. They can live happily in both urban and rural settings as long as they receive enough exercise, attention, and training. Their good-natured temperament makes them wonderful additions to family households.
Bottom Line: Old English Sheepdogs are fantastic family pets, known for their affectionate and playful nature, especially with children.
Old English Sheepdogs are a remarkable breed with a rich history and a playful, gentle nature. While they are high-maintenance in terms of grooming and exercise, they make excellent companions for the right family. Unfortunately, myths about them being lazy, aggressive, or unsuitable for families have caused some to shy away from adopting this breed.
By debunking these five myths, it’s clear that Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent, affectionate, and adaptable dogs who thrive in environments where they are given the care and attention they deserve. If you’re considering adding an OES to your family, you can be sure that with proper training, socialization, and grooming, they’ll bring a lot of joy and love into your home.
Toledo, United States.
