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Old English Sheepdog
Herding breed from England
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a large, athletic herding dog of great strength, known for its distinctive profuse, shaggy double coat in gray and white, a peek-a-boo hairdo, and a characteristic bear-like gait. Its temperament is described as intelligent, gentle, playful, adaptable, and affectionate. However, individual dogs may vary. Estimated adult weight ranges from 32 to 45 kg for both sexes, and estimated height ranges from 56 to 61 cm. The estimated lifespan is 10 to 12 years. Energy, trainability, grooming, and shedding are each rated 3 on a scale (likely 1-5), indicating moderate levels. It scores 3 for child suitability, dog compatibility, and apartment suitability, suggesting it can adapt but may not be ideal for all households.
Quick facts
Old English Sheepdog at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHerding
OriginEngland
Lifespan10–12 years
Male weight32–45 kilogram
Female weight32–45 kilogram
Male height56–61 centimetre
Female height56–61 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Old English Sheepdog was developed in western England, likely in the late 18th century. It is thought to have descended from breeds such as the Bearded Collie and the Russian Owtchar, though the exact origins are uncertain. The breed was used as a drover's dog to drive cattle and sheep to market. Historically, tails were docked to identify them as working dogs, which exempted them from taxes. Recognition status varies by registry; for example, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1888, but other registries may have different dates or criteria. The breed belongs to the Herding group.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
32–45 kilogramAdult weight56–61 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodimported
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentgentleplayfuladaptableaffectionate
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Old English Sheepdog-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Research in progress
Editorially reviewed pros and cons will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
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Growth chart
Old English Sheepdog puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight32–45 kilogramAdult female weight32–45 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of an Old English Sheepdog?
Estimated adult weight is 32–45 kg for both males and females, and estimated height is 56–61 cm. Estimated lifespan is 10–12 years. These are modelled estimates, not exact.
What is the temperament of an Old English Sheepdog?
The breed is described as intelligent, gentle, playful, adaptable, and affectionate. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will exhibit all traits.
How much exercise does an Old English Sheepdog need?
Energy level is rated 3 out of 5 (moderate). They likely need regular daily exercise, but specific requirements are not provided.
What are the grooming needs of an Old English Sheepdog?
Grooming is rated 3 out of 5 (moderate). Their profuse double coat likely requires regular brushing, but detailed care instructions are not supplied.
Is an Old English Sheepdog suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are each rated 3 out of 5, suggesting they can be good with children and other dogs, but individual temperament and training matter.
Can an Old English Sheepdog live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5, indicating they may adapt but likely need sufficient space and exercise. Not ideal for all apartments.
Where did the Old English Sheepdog originate?
The breed originated in England, developed in western England in the late 18th century, likely from breeds like the Bearded Collie and Russian Owtchar. Exact origins are uncertain.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.