The Old English Sheepdog is nicknamed the Bobtail, because tail docking had been normal in the old sheepdogs. The breed is famous as the Dulux dog, because of of the long- running use in marketing Dulux paint.
The Sheepdogs Appearance
The Old English Sheepdog is really a large dog, instantly recognizeable by its long, thick, shaggy gray and white coat, along with fur extending to their face and eyes. The ears lie flat to the head. In spots where tail docking is still legal, the tail is totally docked, producing a panda- like rear end. Occasionally the breed features a natural bobtail. The Old English Sheepdog stands lower at the shoulder than at the loin, and walks using a "bear- like roll through the rear". When the pup has a tail, there is long fur, is often low set, and typically hangs down.
photo credit: pinkiwinkitinki
Behavior and Temperament
The Old English Sheepdog is very well-balanced, happy- go- lucky and has a very friendly personality. They are able to adapt easily to various circumstances, and are very loving and warm and friendly. Loyal, great guard dogs as they are protective and very smart as well, they easily become a member of the family.
They are pleasant and mellow and they love children. Due to their herding insticnt and powerful character they need firm and positive authority and training, so that they know their place. Without positive training, they can easily feel more powerful than the humans in their lives and take over. The Old English Sheepdog is an excellent labourer and can comply with all types of commands, although can easily ignore those when they belive they are more powerful than their owner. The bark of the Old English Sheepdog resembles a cracked bell. This breed stays puppy- like for several years, and gets older quite suddenly. This dog's life expectancy is about 10- 12 years.
Body, Height and Weight
The height of the Old English Sheepdog varies between 22-24 inches for makes and between 20-22 inches for females. Their weight varies as well with over 65 pounds for males and from 60 pounds for females. Some of these cool dogs can actually grow to become over 100 lbs.
Color
The color of the double coat may be any shade of gray, grizzle, blue, or blue merle, with optional white markings. The undercoat is water resistant. Puppies are born with a black and white coat, and it is only after the puppy coat has been shed that the more common gray or silver shaggy hair appears.
Grooming
The super coarse, long haired coat requires regular attention to maintain it in the best and most healthy condition. Without regular combing and brushing, of at least 3 times per week, the coat will become very matted and make the Old English Sheepdog susceptible to parasites.


photo credit: chelseacharliwhite

They can’t see past their fur. j/k
Yeah. They do look better with shorter hair, I’ll agree.
.-= Rob´s last blog ..Crazy Monkey =-.
@ Rob
Thanks for commenting, just went over and checked out your blog, very funny, subscribed!