The Old English Sheepdog has a gentle temperament and a cute appearance. Honest and easygoing, it is quite clingy. However, very few people actually raise Old English Sheepdogs. Why do few people raise Old English Sheepdogs? Is the Old English Sheepdog easy to raise? Today the editor will help you understand the true Old English Sheepdog.

It has the imposing presence of a large dog, yet the gentle and clingy personality of a small dog. This contrast of traits wins the hearts of many; this dog is the Old English Sheepdog. Those who raise it are captivated by this contrast, setting off on an irreversible path.

Why do few people raise Old English Sheepdogs: Once you raise one, you realize it requires more effort than an average dog. If you are usually busy but want to raise one, it’s better to give up and choose another dog, because grooming it daily can make you question your life choices. The Old English Sheepdog’s coat is not only long but also prone to tangling; if you don’t comb it for several days, expect to spend time detangling matted hair. The fur also easily gets dirty, and without proper cleaning, it’s prone to skin diseases. When grooming, you need to comb it layer by layer, preferably spraying conditioner. Because it is a large dog with a thick coat, each grooming session takes about two hours, after which you won’t feel like moving.

Why do few people raise Old English Sheepdogs: Feeding one feels like raising a pig; other dogs eat from small bowls, but the Old English Sheepdog finishes a big bowl in one meal, eating even more than a Tibetan Mastiff. Without a stable income, you can’t afford it. As a large dog, it needs a lot of exercise and must be taken out daily. You must keep a close eye on it outdoors because it loves to jump on people regardless of familiarity, and you have to watch for it picking up things it shouldn't eat. It is not very intelligent, has an eccentric temperament, and likes to intimidate children or small dogs, but it is actually very timid—a paper tiger.

Why do few people raise Old English Sheepdogs: The puppy stage is prone to illness, with purebred Old English Sheepdogs especially susceptible to parvovirus, which has a high mortality rate. Additionally, their rear leg joint structure is special, and they easily develop arthritis in old age, requiring long-term medical care. Medical expenses for large dogs are generally high. Young Old English Sheepdogs are naturally lively; when you’re home, they behave so well you might forget they exist. But when you’re out, it’s like a tiger-less mountain where the monkey claims the throne—they start making trouble. Don’t expect them to stay quietly in a home cage; they are not well-behaved and can escape at any moment.

Why do few people raise Old English Sheepdogs: Drinking water is also an issue. They don’t drink conveniently with their small mouths, and using a bowl often wets the fur around their mouths, which over time turns yellow and dirty. Also, hygiene is a concern; the fur around their rear needs regular trimming or else feces will stick to it. Their mouth and eye discharge must be cleaned daily. The fur on their paws is relatively long, making them prone to slipping and dirtying floors, so timely trimming is needed. Fur that is combed out easily sticks to clothes or spreads around the house.

After understanding why few people raise Old English Sheepdogs, you should have a preliminary idea. The Old English Sheepdog isn’t without advantages, such as being quiet, very perceptive, and loyal to its owner. So, liking them is justified, but if you want to raise one, you must accept its strengths and weaknesses.