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!
Energy level
Energy level: 50% (Moderate)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively
Size
Size: 21 to 22 inches tall. This is a Large sized Dog.
- Energy level
- Moderate (50%)
- Bark level
- Talkative
- Height
- 21 to 22 inches
- Lifespan
- 10 to 12 years
- Weight
- 60 to 100 lbs
The Old English Sheepdog stands 21 to 22 inches tall and weighs 60 to 100 lbs. Old English Sheepdogs have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a talkative bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Old English Sheepdogs get?
- Old English Sheepdogs stand 21 to 22 inches tall and typically weigh between 60 and 100 pounds.
- How long do Old English Sheepdogs live?
- The average lifespan of a Old English Sheepdog is 10 to 12 years.
- Are Old English Sheepdogs good for first-time dog owners?
- Old English Sheepdogs have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
- Do Old English Sheepdogs bark a lot?
- Old English Sheepdogs are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Old English Sheepdog health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Mid-life Old English Sheepdogs should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Hypothyroid disease is at moderate risk.
- Hypothyroid disease
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Above Average Risk
- Urinary tract infection
- Above Average Risk
60% on risk scaleSenior Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Senior Old English Sheepdogs face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Arthritis poses very high risk. Liver disease is at high risk.
- Arthritis
- Very High Risk
- Liver disease
- High Risk
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Moderate Risk
Sheepdog puppy
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Old English Sheepdog puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis poses very high risk. Urinary tract infection is at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Very High Risk
- Urinary tract infection
- High Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
As Old English Sheepdogs grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.
- Ear infection
- Above Average Risk
- Gastroenteritis
- Above Average Risk
- Urinary tract infection
- Above Average Risk
Mature adult Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Mid-life Old English Sheepdogs should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Hypothyroid disease is at moderate risk.
- Hypothyroid disease
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Above Average Risk
- Urinary tract infection
- Above Average Risk
Senior Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Senior Old English Sheepdogs face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Arthritis poses very high risk. Liver disease is at high risk.
- Arthritis
- Very High Risk
- Liver disease
- High Risk
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Moderate Risk
Sheepdog puppy
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
Old English Sheepdog puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis poses very high risk. Urinary tract infection is at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Very High Risk
- Urinary tract infection
- High Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Sheepdog
Risk level for common Sheepdog conditions
As Old English Sheepdogs grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.
- Ear infection
- Above Average Risk
- Gastroenteritis
- Above Average Risk
- Urinary tract infection
- Above Average Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Old English Sheepdog's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 1 year)
- Gastroenteritis: Very High Risk, Urinary tract infection: High Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (1 year to 4 years)
- Ear infection: Above Average Risk, Gastroenteritis: Above Average Risk, Urinary tract infection: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (5 years to 7 years)
- Hypothyroid disease: Moderate Risk, Ear infection: Above Average Risk, Urinary tract infection: Above Average Risk
- Senior (8+ years)
- Arthritis: Very High Risk, Liver disease: High Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: Moderate Risk
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?
Does my Old English Sheepdog need haircuts?
How do I prevent mats and tangles in my Old English Sheepdog’s hair?
How do I prevent mats and tangles in my Old English Sheepdog’s hair?
How often should I bathe my Old English Sheepdog?
How often should I bathe my Old English Sheepdog?
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
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Old English Sheepdogs insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Old English Sheepdog statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Sheepdogs
Best. Old English Sheepdog insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free