Old English Sheepdog

Like every breed, the Old English Sheepdog is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Start positive, reward-based training from a young age, with a firm but fair approach.
• Socialise your puppy widely with people, dogs and new experiences.
• Teach a reliable recall and good lead walking, as with any large, strong dog.
• Try scent work: many love the chance to use their noses.
• Consider accredited puppy training classes for extra support.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Usually sociable with other dogs.

• Cats and small pets

  Varies with the individual dog.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Usually needs a roomy home.

• Garden

  A secure garden is strongly advised.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Best with an experienced owner.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Hip and elbow dysplasia

  Poor development of the hip or elbow joints, which can lead to arthritis. The Royal Kennel Club strongly recommends hip and elbow screening under the BVA/KC schemes before breeding.

• Eye conditions

  The breed can be affected by hereditary cataracts, where the lens becomes cloudy. Eye testing under the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme is recommended before breeding. A DNA test for multiocular defect (MOD) was recognised by the Royal Kennel Club in August 2026.

• Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD)

  A disease in which the dog cannot clear mucus from its airways normally, which can lead to breathing problems. A DNA test is available and is part of best-practice testing.

• Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV)

  Often called bloat, this is where the stomach swells and can twist on itself.

• Deafness

  Congenital deafness can occur in the breed. Puppies can be tested from six weeks old.

• Multiple drug sensitivity

  Some dogs are particularly sensitive to certain types of drugs.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a Old English Sheepdog home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a Old English Sheepdog home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, typically from 10 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the Old English Sheepdog suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

Old English Sheepdogs do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.