The Old English Sheepdog (OES) is iconic for its shaggy coat and friendly personality. Originally bred to herd livestock, these dogs have a rich history and have evolved into beloved family pets, famous for their distinctive looks and lovable personalities. Despite their sometimes goofy appearance, the Old English Sheepdog is intelligent, loyal, and exhibits many unique behaviors that may seem strange to those unfamiliar with the breed but are completely normal. usually for these interesting dogs. From their signature waggle to their gentle herding instincts, let’s explore seven crazy things that are completely normal for Old English Sheepdogs, shedding light on what makes this breed tick. special.
first. The famous “wiggle butt” game
One of the most charming and unique behaviors of the Old English Sheepdog is their characteristic “butt wiggle” behavior. Because of their naturally docked or wavy tails, OES dogs often compensate by wiggling their entire rear ends when they are happy or excited. This full-body wiggle is a joyful display of their affection and excitement, making it one of the breed’s most adorable traits. Wiggle their butt is a normal and healthy way for Old English Sheepdogs to express their emotions, and it often brings a smile to the face of anyone who witnesses it. This behavior highlights their open and friendly nature, expressing their happiness in a truly unique way.
2. Herding instincts and gentle nudges
The Old English Sheepdog retains a strong herding instinct, a trait deeply ingrained in its history as a herding dog. This instinct often manifests itself in nudging or gathering behavior toward family members or their pets. They may try to “herd” children or adults by gently nudging them with their nose or positioning to guide movement. This behavior is not aggressive but reflects their natural tendency to keep their herd (or family) together and safe. Understanding and appreciating this behavior can help owners manage it effectively while also enjoying the playful and protective aspects of their Old English Sheepdog’s personality.
3. Food cravings and obsessions
Old English Sheepdogs are known for their gluttony and sometimes obsessive behavior towards food. These dogs love to eat and can be very resourceful in finding extra treats or food. Their obsession with food can lead to begging or even stealing food if left unchecked. Owners must carefully manage their OES’s diet to prevent overeating and obesity. Providing regular meals, avoiding table scraps, and using food puzzles can help control their food obsession while keeping them mentally stimulated. This behavior is completely normal and reflects their strong need to eat, which may stem from their working dog roots requiring high energy levels.
4. Shaggy coats and grooming challenges
The Old English Sheepdog’s iconic shaggy coat is both a distinguishing feature and an important responsibility. Their thick, double-layered coat requires regular grooming to prevent shedding and maintain health. OES dogs often develop unique grooming habits, such as stroking their face or rubbing against furniture to maintain their coat. Regular brushing and professional grooming is essential to keep their coat in top condition. Despite their grooming challenges, their shaggy appearance adds to their charm and makes them instantly recognizable. Understanding your OES’s needs and grooming habits is important to maintaining their health and appearance.
5. Playful and clownish behavior
The Old English Sheepdog is often described as playful and humorous, displaying a sense of humor that can be entertaining and endearing. They love to engage in silly antics, such as running around the house with toys, playing bow, or making exaggerated movements to attract attention. This playful behavior is a normal expression of their happy and sociable nature. OES dogs thrive on interaction and love to make their owners laugh. Accepting their clownish behavior and providing plenty of playtime and mental stimulation can help keep them happy and engaged. Their playful antics are a reminder of their joyful spirit and deep connection to their human family.
6. Protective and vigilant nature
Despite its friendly and playful demeanor, the Old English Sheepdog has strong protective instincts. They are naturally vigilant and can protect their home and family. This behavior is a holdover from their herding days when they were responsible for guarding the herd. OES dogs often stand among the family and, noticing threats, bark to warn their owners of anything unusual. This protective nature makes them excellent watch dogs. Proper training and socialization are essential to ensure their protective behavior is appropriate and manageable. Understanding their cautious nature can help owners appreciate their role as protectors and companions.
7. Velcro dog syndrome
Old English Sheepdogs are known for their deep attachment to their owners, often being called “Velcro dogs” due to their tendency to bond closely with members of their human family. They thrive on companionship and can become anxious or distressed when left alone for long periods of time. This strong bond means they often follow their owners from room to room and often seek physical closeness. While this behavior can be overwhelming at times, it is a testament to their loyalty and emotional nature. Owners should be ready to devote a lot of attention and interaction to keep their OES feeling safe and loved.
Old English Sheepdogs exhibit a variety of unique behaviors that may seem crazy to those unfamiliar with the breed but are completely normal to these charming and lovable dogs. From their signature rump wiggle and gentle herding instincts to their gluttony and playful antics, OES dogs bring joy and laughter to their families. Understanding and embracing these traits can help owners build a stronger bond with their Old English Sheepdog, ensuring a happy and fulfilling relationship. Their exceptional behaviors and adorable personalities make the Old English Sheepdog a truly special breed, offering friendship and loyalty that is both unique and rewarding.
