The Bobtail or Old English Sheepdog is a dog breed that is popular with those who value their charming appearance, playful character, and calm disposition in pets.
The Old English Sheepdog, sometimes called the “Bobtail,” is a shaggy, goofy dog. Known for their profuse coats, these beautiful dogs have an undeniable appeal — it’s something to do with their rustic looks and gentle demeanor.
Despite being called “sheepdogs,” this breed never really dealt with sheep. Instead, it was their duty to herd cattle.
They are also not that old or very English. The Old English Sheepdog was bred about 300 years ago and contains Russian, European, and British blood.
Interestingly, some farmers used to shave these dogs to make yarn. Perhaps that’s where their confusing name came from!
Indeed, these dogs are so hairy that it’s quite unusual even to see their eyes. When visible, the eyes appear as standard brown or a beautiful blue.
These dogs are also surprisingly agile. This aspect of their herding past persists. Of course, today they are more commonly used as boisterous lawn ornaments than farmhands.
The Old English Sheepdog is often referred to as the “Dulux dog”; this is because, since the 1960s, it has been the well-known mascot of Dulux brand paint, appearing in television commercials and advertisements in print.
Different dogs have appeared in the advertisements, but they all look very similar given the fact that most were chosen from a certain pedigree line; actually, many of the Dulux dogs have won “Best in Show” prizes.
The most famous Dulux dog was Fernville Lord Digby, affectionately referred to as Digby; he was given diva treatment and made his owner famous as well.
The famous English dog trainer Barbara Woodhouse was given the task of training Digby and his stunt doubles.
A small version of the drop-eared dogs in a 1771 Gainsborough painting is thought to be a version of the Old English Sheepdog.
According to the Old English Sheepdog Club of America, the Old English Sheepdog is one of the most ancient breeds of working dogs and the most recognizable with its long fur covering its face.
The Old English Sheepdog is also one of the most popular show dogs, known mostly for their beautiful long coat and excellent personality.
Although the Old English Sheepdog is still used as a herding dog in some areas, they are mostly found as companion pets or show dogs.
They became popular as pets in the 1960s when the Walt Disney movie “The Shaggy Dog” was famous.
For their patience and love for children, they are often called nurse dogs. They allow little pranksters to play any games with them, and even when the baby crosses the boundaries, the Old English Shepherd will not growl, but simply move away from the child.
Please follow and like us:
