Old English Sheepdog
Also known as Chien de Berger Anglais Ancestral · Altenglischer Schaferhund · Antiguo Perro de Pastor Inglés
Great Britain, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 53–61 cm
- Weight
- 27–41 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 yrs
- Good-natured
- Playful
- Friendly
- Boisterous
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a large, shaggy herding dog from England, originally used to drive livestock to market. It has a thick, profuse, shaggy coat in grey and white, a square, powerful body and a distinctive rolling gait. It is now kept mainly as a family companion and needs substantial coat care.
Temperament
Friendly, good-natured and playful, it is generally affectionate with family and good with children. It can be boisterous and stubborn.
Exercise
Needs about an hour of exercise daily, split into walks and play. It enjoys outdoor time but avoid overheating in warm weather.
Grooming
The long coat needs thorough brushing several times weekly to avoid matting, with regular grooming appointments.
Care & wellbeing
Keep the coat clear around eyes, ears and hindquarters. Heat sensitivity.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 34 kg adult- Water
- 1.4 L–2 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,580 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Old English Sheepdog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A shaggy herding breed from the west of England, used to drive sheep and cattle to market. Its profuse grey and white coat needs regular grooming. It is a good-natured, playful dog that gets on well with families.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Hereditary eye conditions
- Deafness
- Hypothyroidism
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
- Hearing test
Not every Old English Sheepdog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 10–12 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Old English Sheepdog right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Old English Sheepdog get?
Adult Old English Sheepdogs typically stand about 53–61 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 27–41 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Old English Sheepdogs live?
Typically 10–12 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Old English Sheepdog need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Old English Sheepdog need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Old English Sheepdogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Old English Sheepdogs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Old English Sheepdogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Old English Sheepdog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Old English Sheepdogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, hereditary eye conditions, deafness. Not every Old English Sheepdog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1963