Old English Sheepdog Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is a big, shaggy herding companion instantly recognized by its profuse double coat and rolling, bear-like gait. Behind the peek-a-boo hairdo is a mellow, even-tempered family dog that adores children and prefers to be part of everyday household life rather than left alone for long. Prospective owners should plan for serious grooming: the dense coat mats quickly and needs thorough brushing several times a week, plus periodic professional trims. Bred to move livestock, the OES is intelligent and capable but has an independent streak, so patient, positive training works best. Its size, energy, and coat care make it a bigger commitment than many buyers first expect.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Mellow, even-tempered, and exceptionally good with children
- Devoted, playful family companion that thrives on household involvement
- Intelligent and capable, with a rich herding heritage
Things to consider
- Profuse double coat mats easily and demands frequent brushing plus professional grooming
- Large size and independent streak can challenge first-time owners
- Does best with an active family and does not like being left alone for long periods
History
The Old English Sheepdog emerged in the west of England in the early 1800s as a drover's dog used to move cattle and sheep to market. It was sometimes called the 'bobtail' because working dogs were traditionally docked. The breed was among the earliest recognized by the American Kennel Club, gaining registration in 1888.
Temperament
Famous for a mellow, agreeable, and even nature, the Old English Sheepdog is affectionate and especially devoted to children. It is playful and family-oriented, yet its herding heritage gives it an independent, sometimes strong-willed streak. With kind, consistent handling it becomes a responsive and biddable companion.
Questions to ask a Old English Sheepdog breeder
- Are the parents OFA-evaluated for hips and are eyes screened annually?
- Have the puppies had BAER hearing testing and MDR1 DNA testing where relevant?
- Can you show health clearances and describe how the litter has been socialized?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; responsible breeders screen breeding stock through OFA or PennHIP hip evaluations.
Inherited eye disease. Educational, non-diagnostic; annual CAER eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist help identify heritable conditions.
Deafness. Educational, non-diagnostic; BAER testing can identify congenital hearing loss in puppies.
MDR1 drug sensitivity. Educational, non-diagnostic; a simple DNA test identifies the MDR1 mutation so veterinarians can adjust medications.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Old English Sheepdog breed overview · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Old English Sheepdog litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Old English Sheepdog puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Old English Sheepdog listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Old English Sheepdog breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.