The Old English Sheepdog is a large, athletic dog breed with an unmistakable shaggy coat.
There are TOP 10 interesting facts about Old English Sheepdog.
1) Origin
The Old English Sheepdog isn’t that old, after all. Compared to some ancient breeds, this dog is a relative newcomer, being only a few hundred years old. It originated in the southwestern counties of England to drive sheep and cattle to market. The Scottish Bearded Collie may have played a large role in the development of the OES; others claim it was the Russian Owtchar. 2) Rich Man’s Dog When the OES first came to the United States, it was a wealthy person’s dog. William Wade, a Pittsburgh industrialist, first promoted the breed in the late 1880s, and less than 20 years later, five-of-the-ten richest families in America owned, bred, and exhibited the breed, including the Vanderbilts and the Guggenheims. 3) Around Strangers Most Old English Sheepdogs are polite with strangers. They make sensible watchdogs with a deep, ringing bark, but they're not guard dogs. In fact, there is timidity and skittishness in some lines, sharpness in others. Extensive socialization is important to develop a confident, stable temperament. 4) Temperament The Old English Sheepdog is a well-behaved house pet that entertains its family with funny antics. Very much an indoor dog, it thrives on the companionship of humans and is protective of its family, especially children. Some Old English Sheepdogs can be very headstrong, but generally they are joyful, gentle, and pleasant toward strangers. The Old English Sheepdog also has a trademark bark that resonates with a "pot-casse" ring -- very much like two pots clanging together. 5) Stubborness Old English Sheepdogs have an independent mind of their own. But they are quite trainable when you know what you're doing and can establish the right relationship where you are the leader and the dog is the follower. 6) Coat like Sheeps The distinctive, thick double coat of the OES adapted over the years to the environment he worked in and the sheep he worked with. The coat is insulating and waterproof, protecting the dog both during chilly, wet winters and warm summers (although the OES is susceptible to overheating on very hot days.) His coat also gives him a woolly look that allows him to blend in with the flock of sheep. 7) Grooming Expect to devote about three-to-four hours a week to grooming your Old English Sheepdog’s shaggy coat. The properly groomed OES is beautiful, but it takes a fair amount of work to achieve that look, so be prepared for the commitment. Start grooming sessions as soon as you get your OES puppy to prepare him for a lifetime of brushing. 8) Care The Old English Sheepdog can live outside in temperate or cool climates, but it should have access to indoor quarters or the house, as it seeks constant companionship. A moderate or long walk or an energetic romp can fulfill its daily exercise requirements. And the English Sheepdog's coat needs combing or brushing on alternate days to prevent it from getting matted. 9) Movie Serpico The dog Alfie, from the movie Serpico, was an Old English Sheepdog. This movie was based on the true life story of a New York City policeman named Frank Serpico, who battled corruption within the police force. The main character was played by Al Pacino. 10) Paul McCartney Paul McCartney owned a Sheepdog named Martha, who apparently was the inspiration for his song "Martha My Dear", though the actual song is probably about one of McCartney's love interests. The 1993 live album, "Paul is Live", actually features one of Martha the dog's puppies on the cover. Source: http://www.akc.org/content/entertainment/articles/8-interesting-facts-about-the-old-english-sheepdog/ http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102192365.asp
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