The Old English Sheepdog Otterhound has a square appearance and great strength. The OES can complete any task assigned to him by the drover or shepherd. This is an intelligent and playful dog and is extremely fond of children. The OES has also been nicknamed “bobtail” and has been popular in its native country for over 200 years. The beautiful and profuse coat is the characteristic feature of this breed.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: England
Used for: Herding trials, companion
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Color: Gray, grizzle, blue, blue-merle with or without white markings
Coat: Harsh, shaggy and profuse but not excessive
Average Height: Males 22 inches and up; females 21 inches and up
Average Weight: Males 70-100 pounds; females 60-80 pounds
Group: Herding
History and Domestication
The Old English Sheepdog otterhound is believed to have descended from the Russian Owtchar and the Scotch Bearded Collie. He was developed by farmers in 19th century Britain. This dog was used to herd sheep and cattle and thus earned the nickname “Bobtail” because of its docked tail. The docked or short tail off this dog signaled their working status and as a result their owners would be exempted from taxes.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The Old English Sheepdog is a compact, strong and square dog. The head is large with a well-defined stop with a deep and broad chest. The eyes may be brown or blue while the nose is black. The front legs are straight and muscular while the hind legs are round. The ears are carried flat to the head. This dog may be born tailless or it might be amputated later.
Care, Grooming and Health
The coarse and long coat needs constant grooming to stay in good condition. In fact, if not combed thoroughly thrice a week, it will become matted and the dog may develop skin allergies and attract parasites. Any tangles must also be clipped out.
The Old English Sheepdog loves a good run and was developed to work hard. They need to be taken on long daily walks or jogs. This breed is prone to IMHA, cataracts and hip dysplasia. Some of the lines also carry MDR1 gene which may prove fatal.
Living Conditions
If provided with sufficient exercise, the Old English Sheepdog will do okay in an apartment. They are fairly active indoors and a medium-sized yard will be required.
Temperament
The OES is an athletic dog and has a clownish personality. He is stable, affectionate and happy go lucky and will readily adjust in different conditions. This makes a god family companion due to its loyal, loving and gentle nature. They love kids and get along well with rest of the family. However, they do have a tendency to herd people through bumping and they have to be taught not to do that. This breed is a calm and confident worker and needs firm and consistent leadership. They remain puppy-like for many years.
