Alice White
The Old English Sheepdog is an ancient representative of guard dogs involved in chasing and guarding livestock. In the modern world, the dog is more popular as a friend and companion, perfect for keeping in an apartment. “Bobtail”, “Old English Sheerdоg” is a popular dog that will bring joy to all family members. He is smart and quick-witted, a cheerful disposition will accompany him throughout his life. Even in old age, the pet will behave like a young person, actively playing and enjoying simple communication with a person. Perfectly adapts to cold climates, is quite hardy, does not have increased emotional outbursts. The only thing that can cause a little discomfort is the loud barking of a pet, but with proper upbringing, it can be completely avoided.
Character
Old English Sheepdogs are very energetic and friendly dogs and it is very important for them to have constant activity. They are loving pupils and lovely companions who will certainly become a full member of your family. Old English Sheepdog is a gregarious dog, it has very developed instincts of protection, which the pupil implements, protecting small children and following the owner. At an early age, you need to socialize so that the dog does not show hostility to the guests. Old English Sheepdogs get along well with other animals.
If a puppy has been brought up with cats, parrots, and other animals since childhood, he will not harm them in any way. It was the Old English Sheepdog that was chosen for the role of the funny dog Max in the Walt Disney cartoon “The Little Mermaid”. Franklin Delano Roosevelt also had an Old English Sheepdog named Tiny. Paul McCartney has three Old English Sheepdogs. Andriano Celentano, even in the movies, did not part with his favorite. In the film “The Taming of the Shrew” we see the high intelligence of a dog that beats Celentano in chess.
Maintenance and care
The long hair of the Old English Sheepdog tangle easily and also collects dirt – so it needs to be cared for. It needs to be brushed at least three times a week. This is also important because bobtails are prone to skin diseases, and tangles cause considerable discomfort to the dog. Old English Sheepdogs, despite their natural energy, value a measured and calm way of life. They are very attentive to the requirements of a person and rarely create problems in terms of upbringing or maintenance. The main thing that can raise questions in self-care is a small poem in Old English Shepherd Dog – this is grooming.
In fact, it is not at all necessary to visit the salon every time, it is enough just to regularly comb out the Old English Sheepdog’s coat to avoid the formation of tangles and periodically wash the dog completely. If you live in a private home, allow your pet to self-care by swimming in a nearby body of water and wallowing in clean grass. You can cut a bobtail every two months. Old English Sheepdogs look most harmonious with medium-length wool. These dogs shed heavily in April and May. If you are not planning on showing up, the bobtail can be trimmed with an electric dog clipper. Cutting the nails and preventing fleas, ticks and other parasites are also important.
Choosing a puppy
Old English Sheepdog puppies are born black and white. Therefore, do not think that you are being offered the wrong breed when you first see the kids. Later, by about one and a half years, the shepherd will change its coat to blue or gray and white. Check the puppy’s eye color, it should be dark. Light eyes are not desirable for puppies chosen for the show. White spots are undesirable on black. The head, neck, forelegs, and lower abdomen must be white. Black markings are acceptable.
The bite is a scissor bite.
Pros
- With a very abundant coat, the Bobtail has no seasonal molting and is odorless.
- Friendly, communicative, with a high degree of learning.
- Not aggressive or pugnacious
- Spectacular appearance
- Calm character, obedient and easily controlled, gets along well with children.
- Easy to train
- On walks, he is mobile and playful, but at home he is calm.
Cons
- A lot of time is spent on grooming
- Wool dries for a long time
