The Outdated English Sheepdog is a placing breed, identified for its shaggy coat and exuberant persona. But, for all their reputation, misconceptions about this breed abound. In the event you’re interested by welcoming an Outdated English Sheepdog (OES) into your life or are merely curious, it’s vital to separate reality from fiction. On this article, we’ll debunk 5 widespread myths about Outdated English Sheepdogs which have continued for much too lengthy.
Delusion 1: Outdated English Sheepdogs Are Lazy
The Delusion: With their fluffy, bear-like look, some individuals assume that Outdated English Sheepdogs are sofa potatoes who spend most of their time lounging round the home.
The Actuality: In fact, Outdated English Sheepdogs are something however lazy. Bred for herding, these canine are high-energy animals with a robust work ethic. Initially, they have been used to herd livestock, particularly sheep, over lengthy distances. Which means that they’ve unimaginable stamina and require loads of train to maintain them bodily and mentally stimulated.
An under-exercised OES can change into bored and should begin participating in undesirable behaviors, like extreme barking, chewing, and even damaging tendencies. Day by day walks, play classes, or actions like agility coaching can assist them burn off vitality. Whereas they could take pleasure in snuggling up with their household, they thrive finest in environments the place they’ve ample alternatives to remain lively.
Backside Line: Don’t count on your Outdated English Sheepdog to be a sofa potato. They want common train to remain comfortable and wholesome.
Delusion 2: They’re At all times Aggressive
The Delusion: Outdated English Sheepdogs are sometimes regarded as aggressive, particularly due to their giant dimension and commanding presence.
The Actuality: Opposite to this perception, Outdated English Sheepdogs are usually mild, pleasant, and sociable canine. They’re identified for his or her loving and protecting nature towards their households, and lots of are particularly good with youngsters. In truth, they’ve earned a popularity as “nanny canine” due to their persistence and delicate demeanor round children.
Nonetheless, like all breed, temperament varies relying on the person canine and the way properly they’re socialized from a younger age. Correct coaching and early socialization are essential in shaping a well-adjusted, assured OES. Exposing them to totally different environments, individuals, and different canine helps forestall any indicators of fearfulness or reactivity. The concept Outdated English Sheepdogs are naturally aggressive is solely unfaithful, and when raised in a optimistic atmosphere, they’re usually well-mannered and affectionate companions.
Backside Line: Outdated English Sheepdogs are usually not aggressive, however like all canine, they want correct socialization and coaching to achieve their full potential as loving relations.
Delusion 3: Outdated English Sheepdogs Don’t Want A lot Grooming
The Delusion: The Outdated English Sheepdog’s thick, fluffy coat may give the impression that they require minimal grooming, as some consider that their pure look doesn’t want a lot consideration.
The Actuality: Outdated English Sheepdogs are identified for his or her iconic shaggy coat, which, whereas stunning, requires a substantial amount of upkeep. Common grooming is crucial to stop matting, tangles, and pores and skin infections. Their double coat — consisting of a tender undercoat and a coarser outer coat — is susceptible to knots, and with out correct care, it could actually rapidly change into unmanageable.
It’s really useful to brush an OES a number of instances per week to maintain their coat wholesome and tangle-free. Moreover, many house owners choose to trim their canine’s coat to make it extra manageable, particularly if the canine isn’t being proven in competitions.
Common baths {and professional} grooming classes are additionally crucial to keep up cleanliness. Neglecting their coat can result in painful mats, which can require shaving to resolve.
Backside Line: Outdated English Sheepdogs require a big quantity of grooming, so be ready to take a position effort and time into their coat care.
Delusion 4: Outdated English Sheepdogs Are All Present and No Mind
The Delusion: Due to their fluffy, teddy bear-like look, some individuals assume that Outdated English Sheepdogs are extra fashion than substance — in different phrases, they could look spectacular, however they’re not notably clever.
The Actuality: This might not be farther from the reality. Outdated English Sheepdogs are literally extremely smart canine. As a herding breed, they have been bred to work independently and assume on their ft. They’re fast learners who can choose up instructions and new tips with relative ease. In truth, many OESs excel in obedience, agility, and herding trials.
That mentioned, their intelligence can be a problem for some house owners. They could be a bit cussed and unbiased, traits that mirror their working canine heritage. To forestall behavioral points, it’s important to interact them in coaching and psychological stimulation from an early age. Endurance, consistency, and optimistic reinforcement go a good distance in serving to them change into obedient, well-mannered pets.
Backside Line: Don’t underestimate the intelligence of an Outdated English Sheepdog — they’re greater than only a fairly face and may excel in varied actions with correct coaching.
Delusion 5: Outdated English Sheepdogs Don’t Do Nicely in Households
The Delusion: Because of their giant dimension and herding instincts, some individuals consider that Outdated English Sheepdogs aren’t appropriate for household life, particularly in properties with youngsters.
The Actuality: Outdated English Sheepdogs are sometimes described because the “clowns” of the canine world resulting from their playful and affectionate nature. They have an inclination to bond carefully with their relations and are identified to be nice with children. Many OESs exhibit a delicate, affected person demeanor round youngsters, making them glorious household companions. Whereas their herding instincts could trigger them to “herd” youngsters or different pets by nudging or corralling them, this habits could be curbed by coaching.
It’s additionally vital to notice that, regardless of their dimension, Outdated English Sheepdogs are usually adaptable. They’ll stay fortunately in each city and rural settings so long as they obtain sufficient train, consideration, and coaching. Their good-natured temperament makes them great additions to household households.
Backside Line: Outdated English Sheepdogs are unbelievable household pets, identified for his or her affectionate and playful nature, particularly with youngsters.
Outdated English Sheepdogs are a exceptional breed with a wealthy historical past and a playful, mild nature. Whereas they’re high-maintenance by way of grooming and train, they make glorious companions for the precise household. Sadly, myths about them being lazy, aggressive, or unsuitable for households have prompted some to draw back from adopting this breed.
By debunking these 5 myths, it’s clear that Outdated English Sheepdogs are clever, affectionate, and adaptable canine who thrive in environments the place they’re given the care and a spotlight they deserve. In the event you’re contemplating including an OES to your loved ones, you’ll be able to make certain that with correct coaching, socialization, and grooming, they’ll convey loads of pleasure and love into your property.