The Old English Sheepdog looks like someone crossed a polar bear with a mop and then gave it the personality of a class clown. That enormous shaggy coat, the peek-a-boo eyes, the bear-like shuffle — it’s one of the most instantly recognisable dogs in the world, and it’s every bit as lovable as it looks.
But let’s get the hard truth out of the way early: that coat is not a costume. It’s a full-time job. The Old English Sheepdog Club of America recommends a minimum of three to four hours of grooming per week to keep an OES coat mat-free and healthy. That’s before the dripping water beard, the muddy paws tracking debris through your house, and the seasonal shedding that turns your furniture into a fur installation.
If you’re still reading after that grooming reality check, congratulations — you might actually be Old English Sheepdog material. Because underneath that high-maintenance exterior is one of the most gentle, devoted, and genuinely funny dogs you’ll ever meet. Here’s everything Australian buyers need to know.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Breed Quick Facts Table
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Pastoral / Herding (ANKC & AKC) |
| Origin | Western England (likely) |
| Size | Males: 56+ cm (22+ in) / Females: 53+ cm (21+ in) at the shoulder |
| Weight | Males: 32–45 kg (70–100 lbs) / Females: 27–36 kg (60–80 lbs) |
| Lifespan | 10–12 years |
| Coat | Profuse, shaggy, waterproof double coat. Extremely high-maintenance. |
| Colours | Grey, grizzle, blue, blue merle — with or without white markings |
| Temperament | Gentle, playful, adaptable, loyal, clownish, protective |
| Shedding | Heavy. Year-round with major spring/summer blowout. |
| Barking | Moderate to high — deep, distinctive, ringing bark. Excellent watchdog. |
| Good With Kids | Excellent — gentle, patient, may try to “herd” children with gentle bumping |
| Good With Other Pets | Generally good — friendly with other dogs and pets |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate to high — at least 60 minutes daily |
| Grooming Time | 3–4 hours per week MINIMUM. Non-negotiable. |
| Puppy Price (AUD) | $2,500–$5,000+ from a registered breeder |
History & Origins
Despite the name, the Old English Sheepdog isn’t particularly old by dog breed standards. The breed originated in the early-to-mid 1800s in western England, where it was developed to drive cattle and sheep to market. Its ancestry is debated, with links suggested to the Scotch Bearded Collie and possibly the Russian Owtchar (South Russian Ovcharka).
Working dogs had their tails docked as proof of occupation, which exempted their owners from dog tax. This practice gave the breed its long-standing nickname: the Bobtail. 19th-century farmers were so practical about the breed’s abundant coat that they sometimes sheared their sheepdogs alongside their sheep, using the dense fur to make blankets and clothing.
The breed was first exhibited in England in 1873 and recognised by the AKC in 1888. By the late 1800s, the OES had already begun its transition from working farm dog to companion and show dog. American high society embraced the breed, and its popularity surged in the late 20th century after appearances in films, television, and advertising — most famously as the Dulux paint mascot, which cemented the breed’s image in Australia and the UK.
Today, the Old English Sheepdog is primarily a companion and show dog. It’s considered a vulnerable breed in the UK, with declining registration numbers. In Australia, dedicated ANKC breeders continue to produce quality OES, but availability is limited compared to more popular breeds.
Temperament & Personality
The Old English Sheepdog’s temperament is frequently described in one word: clown. They’re genuinely funny dogs — goofy, playful, and seemingly aware that they look ridiculous. But they’re also intelligent, independent-minded, and deeply devoted to their families.
OES dogs are gentle, affectionate, and utterly devoted. They bond strongly to their people and don’t do well when left alone for long periods. They’re shadow dogs who want to be wherever you are, doing whatever you’re doing — even if that means a 45-kilogram sheepdog sitting on your feet while you work.
they’re exceptional. OES dogs are patient, gentle, and instinctively protective of kids. They have a well-documented habit of trying to herd children with gentle bumping and nudging — a leftover from their livestock-driving heritage. This is endearing but worth managing with younger toddlers who might be bowled over by a large, enthusiastic dog.
they’re typically friendly once introduced, though they have strong watchdog instincts and will announce visitors with their deep, distinctive bark. They’re not guard dogs — they’re too friendly for that — but they’re excellent at letting you know someone’s at the door.
the OES is an independent thinker. They were bred to make decisions about livestock without constant human direction, and that self-sufficiency translates into a dog that sometimes decides your instructions are suggestions. Training requires consistency and patience. They respond well to positive reinforcement but can be stubborn when they’ve decided they have a better idea.
The Old English Sheepdog is one of the most lovable, family-oriented breeds you can own. They’re gentle with everyone, hilarious to live with, and fiercely loyal. The catch is the grooming — if you can’t commit to hours of weekly coat care, this is not your breed. Everything else about the OES is wonderful. The coat is the dealbreaker.
Health & Genetic Conditions
Old English Sheepdogs are generally healthy for a large breed, but they have several breed-specific conditions that responsible owners need to monitor. Their dense coat can also mask developing health problems, making regular vet checks important.
Prevalence: A significant concern in Old English Sheepdogs as in many large breeds — hip scoring of both parents is essential before breeding; ranges from mild cases managed conservatively to severe cases requiring surgery
Symptoms: Stiffness after rest, reluctance to exercise, lameness in the back legs, difficulty rising from lying down, and gradual worsening of mobility as arthritis develops over time
Treatment Cost (AUD): $3,000–$7,000 per hip for surgical intervention; mild to moderate cases can be managed with medication, joint supplements, and controlled low-impact exercise
Prevention: Buy from breeders who provide hip scoring results for both parents; keep your OES at a healthy weight and avoid high-impact exercise during puppyhood while joints are still developing
Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, causing the bones to grind against each other rather than moving smoothly. Over time this leads to progressive arthritis and chronic pain. It has a strong genetic component, so choosing a puppy from hip-scored parents combined with lifelong weight management gives your dog the best possible chance of staying comfortable and active well into old age. (Source: OFA — Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
Prevalence: A known genetic concern in Old English Sheepdogs — a DNA test is available and should be used by all breeding dogs to prevent affected puppies being born
Symptoms: Night blindness in the early stages, bumping into objects in low light, reluctance to enter dark rooms, and gradual progression to complete blindness over months to years
Treatment Cost (AUD): $500–$1,500 for diagnosis; there is currently no cure or treatment available
Prevention: Only buy from breeders who DNA test both parents for PRA — ask to see proof of testing before committing to a puppy; early diagnosis helps you prepare your home environment for your dog’s changing needs
Progressive Retinal Atrophy causes the light-sensitive cells in the retina to gradually break down, eventually leading to complete blindness. It is painless, and Old English Sheepdogs adapt surprisingly well to vision loss when their home environment stays familiar and consistent. Responsible DNA testing by breeders is the most powerful tool available to prevent affected puppies from being born altogether. (Source: OFA — Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
Prevalence: Documented in Old English Sheepdogs — the immune system gradually destroys thyroid tissue, reducing hormone production; thyroid antibody testing is recommended for all breeding dogs
Symptoms: Unexplained weight gain, low energy and lethargy, thinning or dull coat, dry or flaky skin, and increased sensitivity to cold temperatures
Treatment Cost (AUD): $300–$800 per year for daily thyroid hormone replacement medication and regular blood monitoring
Prevention: No guaranteed prevention; thyroid antibody testing is available for breeding dogs — routine annual blood tests help catch declining thyroid function before symptoms become pronounced
Autoimmune Thyroiditis is driven by the immune system attacking the thyroid gland rather than the gland simply underperforming on its own. The result is insufficient thyroid hormone production, leaving affected dogs feeling sluggish and gaining weight despite no change in their diet. Once diagnosed it is very straightforward to manage with a daily tablet, and most dogs return to their normal energetic selves once hormone levels are properly balanced. (Source: OFA — Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
Prevalence: Old English Sheepdogs are at elevated risk due to their large, deep-chested build — every owner must know the warning signs as this is a life-threatening emergency that can kill within hours
Symptoms: Visibly swollen or distended abdomen, unproductive retching without bringing anything up, restlessness, excessive drooling, pale gums, and rapid deterioration into collapse
Treatment Cost (AUD): $5,000–$12,000 for emergency surgery — time is absolutely critical and every minute counts
Prevention: Feed two to three smaller meals daily rather than one large meal; avoid vigorous exercise immediately before and after eating; strongly consider a preventative gastropexy — ask your vet about combining it with desexing
Bloat — medically known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or GDV — occurs when the stomach fills rapidly with gas and then twists on itself, cutting off blood supply to surrounding organs. Without emergency surgery it is fatal, often within just a few hours of onset. Every Old English Sheepdog owner should know the warning signs by heart and have an emergency vet plan ready. A preventative gastropexy, which surgically tacks the stomach to prevent twisting, is one of the most worthwhile investments you can make for a large deep-chested dog. (Source: American College of Veterinary Surgeons)
Prevalence: More common in dogs with white or merle colouring — Old English Sheepdogs with significant white markings carry a higher risk; BAER testing is recommended for all breeding dogs
Symptoms: Unresponsiveness to sounds, not reacting to their name or loud noises, difficulty locating the direction of sounds, and appearing confused by verbal commands
Treatment Cost (AUD): $150–$300 for a BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test to confirm diagnosis in one or both ears
Prevention: BAER testing should be performed on puppies before they go to their new homes — reputable breeders will have this done and provide results to buyers
Congenital deafness in Old English Sheepdogs is linked to the genetics behind white colouring — the same pigmentation genes that produce white markings can also affect the development of the inner ear. A BAER test is a simple, painless hearing assessment that can confirm whether a puppy can hear in one or both ears from as early as five to six weeks of age. Deaf dogs can absolutely live full and happy lives and can be trained very successfully using hand signals and vibration-based cues. (Source: Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine)
Prevalence: Documented in Old English Sheepdogs and can develop at any age — hereditary cataracts may appear in younger dogs while age-related cataracts are more common in older dogs; regular eye examinations are recommended
Symptoms: A cloudy, bluish, or whitish appearance in one or both eyes, bumping into objects or furniture, reluctance to navigate dark spaces or stairs, and gradually worsening vision
Treatment Cost (AUD): $2,000–$4,000 per eye for surgical removal and lens replacement
Prevention: Buy from breeders who conduct eye health testing; schedule regular eye checks with your vet — catching cataracts early allows surgery to be performed before vision is severely compromised
Cataracts cause the normally clear lens of the eye to become progressively cloudy, reducing the amount of light reaching the retina and gradually impairing vision. Surgical removal is highly effective — most dogs regain significant vision and adjust very well after the procedure. Regular eye checks throughout your Old English Sheepdog’s life are the best way to catch changes early and maximise the outcome of treatment. (Source: American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists)
Prevalence: Documented in Old English Sheepdogs — a DNA test is available to identify affected and carrier dogs; episodes are triggered by intense exercise, excitement, or heat
Symptoms: Weakness or wobbliness in the back legs during or shortly after intense exercise, loss of coordination, and in more severe episodes full collapse — dogs typically recover within 5 to 25 minutes of rest
Treatment Cost (AUD): $500–$1,500 for DNA diagnosis and ongoing management through exercise modification
Prevention: DNA testing is available — buy from breeders who test their dogs; manage affected dogs by avoiding intense bursts of exercise, high excitement situations, and exercising in hot weather
Exercise Induced Collapse occurs when a dog’s muscles temporarily fail to function properly during periods of high intensity activity, causing the back legs to give way. It looks alarming but most affected dogs recover fully with rest. The key to managing it is knowing your dog carries the gene and adjusting their exercise accordingly — moderate, consistent activity is perfectly safe, while explosive high-intensity bursts should be avoided. (Source: University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine)
Prevalence: Reported in Old English Sheepdogs — a serious condition where the immune system mistakenly destroys the body’s own red blood cells; can be life-threatening without prompt treatment
Symptoms: Pale or yellowish gums, extreme lethargy, rapid breathing, weakness, collapse, and in severe cases dark-coloured urine — symptoms can escalate quickly
Treatment Cost (AUD): $2,000–$5,000+ for diagnosis, hospitalisation, and a course of immunosuppressive treatment
Prevention: No guaranteed prevention as it is immune-mediated; seek urgent veterinary attention if your OES develops sudden extreme lethargy, pale gums, or rapid breathing — early intervention is critical to survival
Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia occurs when the immune system incorrectly identifies the body’s own red blood cells as a threat and destroys them, causing severe anaemia. It can develop rapidly and become life-threatening within days without treatment. With prompt hospitalisation and immunosuppressive medication most dogs respond well, though some cases require blood transfusions to stabilise the patient. Any Old English Sheepdog showing sudden, severe lethargy or pale gums should be seen by a vet immediately. (Source: VCA Animal Hospitals)
Ask breeders for hip scores, OFA cardiac and thyroid clearances, BAER hearing tests, and eye certifications. The breed’s dense coat can hide lumps, skin conditions, and weight changes, so regular hands-on checks during grooming sessions are important.
Lifespan & Longevity
The Old English Sheepdog lifespan is 10–12 years, which is typical for a large breed. Some well-cared-for OES dogs reach 13+.
Key longevity factors: maintaining a lean body condition (obesity is a significant risk in this breed and shortens lifespan), preventing bloat/GDV through careful feeding practices (smaller, frequent meals, no vigorous exercise immediately after eating), thorough grooming that doubles as a health check (feel for lumps, skin issues, and parasites hidden under all that fur), regular eye and thyroid monitoring, and keeping them cool in Australian heat — they’re extremely sensitive to warm temperatures.
Grooming & Care
This is the section that makes or breaks your decision. Old English Sheepdog grooming is legendary in the dog world, and not in a casual way. This breed has one of the most demanding coats of any dog.
Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full Brushing & Detangling | 3–4 hours per week (minimum) | Down to the skin. Brush layer by layer. Mats form quickly and painfully if skipped. |
| Face / Beard Cleaning | Daily | Water beard drips after every drink. Food gets trapped. Needs wiping after meals and water. |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | Heavy ear fur traps moisture and debris. Ear infections are common. |
| Bathing | Every 4–6 weeks | Drying takes hours. A high-velocity dryer is almost essential. |
| Professional Grooming | Every 6–8 weeks | Many owners clip their OES short for manageability, especially in Australian heat. This is practical but changes the breed’s iconic look. |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Hidden under all that foot fur. Don’t forget them. |
| Teeth Brushing | 2–3 times per week | Generally good teeth. Standard dental care. |
The clipping option: many Australian OES owners choose to keep their dogs clipped short (sometimes called a “puppy cut”) rather than maintaining the full show coat. This dramatically reduces grooming time, makes the dog more comfortable in Australian heat, and is perfectly healthy. If you’re not showing your dog, a short clip every 6–8 weeks is a very practical choice.
Are Old English Sheepdogs hypoallergenic? No. Despite some claims, OES dogs shed heavily and produce significant dander. Their dense double coat traps allergens close to the skin and releases them during grooming. They are not suitable for people with dog allergies.
Exercise Needs
Old English Sheepdogs were bred to drive cattle and sheep for miles, and they need solid daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Aim for at least 60 minutes of activity daily — walks, free play in a fenced yard, fetch, and exploring.
They’re surprisingly agile for their size and enjoy activities like agility, herding trials, and obedience work. They’re not endurance athletes, but they have good stamina and love varied activities. Without adequate exercise, OES dogs become bored, destructive, and excessively barky.
Australian climate warning:
Old English Sheepdogs are extremely sensitive to heat. Their dense double coat is designed for English weather, not Australian summers. Exercise must be restricted to early morning or late evening during warm months. Shade, fresh water, and air conditioning are essential. Many Aussie OES owners keep their dogs clipped short specifically for heat management. Watch for signs of heat stress — excessive panting, drooling, staggering, or collapse. If you live in tropical or inland Australia without reliable air conditioning, this is not the breed for you.
Training Guide
Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent and generally eager to please, but they have an independent, sometimes stubborn nature that comes from their working heritage. They’re not difficult to train, but they need a handler who is consistent and patient.
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Focus Area | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 8–16 weeks | Socialisation, handling, grooming habituation | Start grooming routines immediately. Get them used to brushing, handling paws, ears, and face daily. Puppy school essential. |
| 4–6 months | Basic obedience, leash walking, bark management | They grow fast — leash manners matter before they’re 40 kg. Teach “quiet” early. Positive reinforcement works best. |
| 6–12 months | Advanced obedience, impulse control, herding management | Address herding behaviour with children. Redirect bumping/nudging into acceptable behaviours. Keep training fun and varied. |
| 1–2 years | Sport training, ongoing socialisation, manners refinement | A large, exuberant dog needs solid manners. Agility and herding trials are excellent outlets. They mature slowly. |
Training difficulty: 4/10. OES dogs are easy to train in most respects — they’re smart, food-motivated, and people-oriented. The challenge is their occasional stubbornness and the sheer size of an untrained adult. A 40 kg dog that hasn’t learned leash manners or jumping etiquette is a handful. Start early, be consistent, and use positive reinforcement. Harsh methods are completely unnecessary and counterproductive.
Price & Costs
| Expense | One-Off / Setup | Annual Ongoing |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Puppy (ANKC) | $2,500–$5,000+ | — |
| Desexing | $500–$900 | — |
| Food (premium large breed) | — | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Vet Check-ups & Vaccinations | — | $400–$700 |
| Pet Insurance | — | $700–$1,800 |
| Flea/Tick/Worming | — | $250–$500 |
| Professional Grooming | $200–$400 (tools, dryer) | $1,200–$3,000+ (every 6–8 weeks at $150–$350/session) |
| Bedding, Crate (XL), Toys | $300–$600 | $150–$300 |
| Training | $300–$800 | — |
| Council Registration | — | $20–$200 (varies by LGA) |
Estimated first-year cost: $6,500–$13,500 AUD. Estimated annual ongoing cost: $4,500–$9,500 AUD. The grooming line item is the standout — professional grooming for an OES is expensive due to the time involved. Learning to groom at home can save thousands annually but requires investment in tools and skills.
Finding a breeder:
Search Dogs Australia (dogsaustralia.org.au) and DogzOnline.com.au. The Old English Sheepdog Club of each state is an excellent starting point. Breeders are located across VIC, NSW, QLD, SA, and WA. Ask for hip scores, eye certifications, thyroid clearance, BAER hearing tests, and cardiac screening.
Rescue:
Old English Sheepdog rescue does exist in Australia. Check PetRescue.com.au and contact breed clubs — OES dogs sometimes end up in rescue when owners underestimate the grooming commitment.
Is the Old English Sheepdog Right for You?
you have time for 3–4 hours of grooming per week (or can afford regular professional grooming), you want a large, gentle, family-oriented dog that’s exceptional with children, you have a securely fenced yard with shade and space, you can provide at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, you live in a climate with reliable air conditioning, you’re comfortable with dog hair on everything you own, and you want a loyal, funny, devoted companion for the next 10–12 years.
you can’t commit to serious grooming (this is the number one reason OES dogs end up in rescue), you live in a hot climate without air conditioning, you want a low-maintenance dog, you live in a small apartment without yard access, you work long hours and the dog will be alone all day (they need companionship), or you have a very small budget (this is an expensive breed to maintain).
If you love the OES look but can’t manage the coat, consider the Sheepadoodle (OES x Poodle cross) which may shed less, the Bearded Collie which has a similar personality in a slightly smaller, easier-coated package, or the Polish Lowland Sheepdog which shares the shaggy look with a more manageable size.
In three lines: The Old English Sheepdog is a gentle giant with the heart of a clown, the loyalty of a bodyguard, and the coat of a sheep — they’re wonderful family dogs that genuinely adore children and thrive on human companionship. The grooming commitment is real and non-negotiable; it’s the single biggest factor that determines whether you can own this breed. If you have the time, space, and budget to keep that magnificent coat in order, the OES will repay you with 10–12 years of devotion, laughter, and fur on your favourite black pants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Old English Sheepdog cost in Australia?
Expect $2,500–$5,000+ AUD from a registered ANKC breeder. Ongoing costs are significant due to the breed’s size and grooming requirements — budget $4,500–$9,500 AUD annually.
Do Old English Sheepdogs shed?
Yes, heavily. They shed year-round with a major seasonal blowout in spring/summer. The dense double coat releases huge amounts of fur. Regular grooming reduces the impact, but your house will have dog hair. They are not hypoallergenic.
Are Old English Sheepdogs hypoallergenic?
No. Despite their fluffy appearance, OES dogs shed heavily and produce significant dander. They are not suitable for people with dog allergies.
How big do Old English Sheepdogs get?
Males stand 56+ cm (22+ inches) at the shoulder and weigh 32–45 kg (70–100 lbs). Females are slightly smaller at 53+ cm and 27–36 kg. They’re large, heavy dogs with a lot of bulk under all that fur.
How long do Old English Sheepdogs live?
10–12 years is the typical Old English Sheepdog lifespan, which is average for a large breed. Keeping them lean, well-groomed, and cool in Australian heat supports longevity.
How much grooming does an Old English Sheepdog need?
A minimum of 3–4 hours per week of thorough brushing and detangling, plus daily face/beard cleaning, weekly ear checks, and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Many owners keep their OES clipped short to reduce this to about 1 hour per week plus regular grooming appointments.
Do Old English Sheepdogs bark a lot?
They have a deep, distinctive, ringing bark and are excellent watchdogs. They’ll announce visitors and unusual activity. Without adequate exercise and stimulation, barking can become excessive. Training a “quiet” command early helps.
Are Old English Sheepdogs good family dogs?
Exceptional. They’re one of the best large breeds for families with children — gentle, patient, playful, and instinctively protective. They may gently herd children with nudging, which is normal herding behaviour.
Are Old English Sheepdogs good guard dogs?
They’re outstanding watchdogs — their deep bark and size are imposing. But they’re too friendly with people to be true guard dogs. They’ll alert you to visitors, then probably try to befriend them.
Can Old English Sheepdogs handle Australian heat?
Poorly. Their dense double coat is designed for English weather. Air conditioning, shade, and clipping the coat short are essential in Australian summers. Exercise only during cool hours. They’re better suited to cooler southern states.
Can I keep an Old English Sheepdog in an apartment?
Not recommended. They’re large dogs (up to 45 kg) that need space, a yard, and room to move. Their size, barking, and exercise needs make apartment living impractical for most OES owners.
1. American Kennel Club (AKC) — Old English Sheepdog Breed Information: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/old-english-sheepdog/
2. PetMD — Old English Sheepdog Health & Care: https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/old-english-sheepdog
3. WebMD Pets — What to Know About Old English Sheepdogs: https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-about-old-english-sheepdogs
4. Vetstreet — Old English Sheepdog Breed Guide: https://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/old-english-sheepdog
5. Dogster — Old English Sheepdog Breed Guide: https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/old-english-sheepdog
6. Embrace Pet Insurance — Old English Sheepdog Health: https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/dog-breeds/old-english-sheepdog
7. Dogs Australia — Breed Information: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/