The OES is a big, good-humoured family dog — gentle with children, sociable and adaptable, with a characteristic bear-like amble and a herding habit of bumping people along. The catch is the coat: that profuse double coat demands serious, frequent grooming (many owners clip it) or it mats painfully. Moderate daily exercise keeps them happy. A wonderful companion for a family ready to commit to the grooming.
Old English Sheepdog
- Vet-reviewed by Dr. Amara Okafor, DVM
- Last updated June 2, 2026
Breed character
The shaggy, lumbering charmer behind the paint adverts — easy-going, affectionate and playful, a gentle herding clown wrapped in a famous coat.
Temperament
- Easy-going
- Affectionate
- Playful
- Gentle
- Sociable
Likes
- Being with their family
- Gentle play and walks
- Cooler weather
- Herding/bumping their people along
Dislikes
- Heat
- Skipped grooming (painful mats)
- Being left alone
- Boredom
Habits & quirks
- The bear-like rolling amble
- Herding and bumping family members
- Heavy shedding without grooming
- Playful, clownish antics
Great for
- Families with children
- Homes committed to grooming
- Cooler climates
- Owners wanting a gentle, fun dog
Think twice if…
- Owners short on grooming time/budget
- Hot climates
- Apartments
- Tidy, shed-averse households
Old English Sheepdog: quick answers
How big does the Old English Sheepdog get?
An adult Old English Sheepdog typically weighs 27–45 kg and stands around 51–61 cm at the shoulder — a large breed.
How long does the Old English Sheepdog live?
10–12 years is typical for the Old English Sheepdog. Weight, genetics and routine veterinary care all move the needle — regular check-ups matter at every age.
Is the Old English Sheepdog good with kids?
The Old English Sheepdog rates 5/5 on our family-friendliness scale — one of the stronger choices for homes with children. Early socialisation and supervision still matter far more than breed for any dog around kids.
Does the Old English Sheepdog shed a lot?
Yes — the Old English Sheepdog is a heavy shedder (4/5 on our scale). Expect hair around the house and budget time for regular brushing.
Is the Old English Sheepdog easy to train?
Reasonably — the Old English Sheepdog rates 3/5 for trainability. Consistency, patience and positive reinforcement get you there.
Can the Old English Sheepdog live in an apartment?
It’s not the ideal apartment dog — the Old English Sheepdog does best with more space. Committed owners can make it work with enough room to stretch out and daily walks.
Is this the right breed for you?
Take the 3-minute Breed Match — a few honest questions about your home, time and energy, and a shortlist of dogs that genuinely fit your life.
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Care, gear & guides
Guides for this breed are coming soon.
