Did you know that the Old English Sheepdog, a charismatic and fluffy breed, is famously known as the “Bobtail?” These lovable, mop-like pooches are renowned for their lush double-coat that gives them a distinctive shaggy appearance. But before you fall in love with this affectionate giant and bring one into your family, it’s important to know what you’re getting into in terms of their grooming needs.
You’d think that the Old English Sheepdog is one heck of a furball generator. The truth is, these dogs, despite their majestic mane, are not the heaviest shedders around. But don’t breathe a sigh of relief just yet. They still need regular grooming and cleaning to keep them looking at their fluffy best.
First things first, let’s delve into the details of this intriguing coat. Adorned with a thick, two-layered coat that consists of a dense undercoat and a coarse outer layer, they are perfectly designed by nature to resist harsh weather conditions. Resembling a fluffy cloud, this double layer provides insulation in cold weather and shields from the heat in hot months, making this breed extremely adaptable.
The Old English Sheepdog is not a ‘seasonal shedder,’ unlike many breeds that blow their coats during certain times of the year. Instead, their shedding is pretty even throughout the year. Fear not though; they are not ‘heavy shedders.’ If you’re looking for an easy comparison, they actually shed less than a Golden Retriever! But before you celebrate, understand that less shedding does not correlate to less grooming.
The extensive coat of an Old English Sheepdog may not produce tumbleweeds of hair rolling through your living room, but it requires regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Without combing, their hair can quickly become a matted mess, leading to discomfort and potential skin infections for your furry friend.
Thorough brushing at least a couple of times each week is crucial for their coat. Remember, an untenable mat of hair can snare dead hairs that have been previously shed, giving a deceptively alarming appearance of heavy shedding. Regular grooming not only keeps their coat looking its best, but it also helps reduce loose hairs floating around your home.
A pro tip is to equip yourself with a de-shedding tool. Trust me; this little tool is going to be your ‘hairy’ best friend! It works wonders in removing loose hair and reducing the instances of hair fall around your house.
A common question regarding grooming is, “Do I need to shave my Old English Sheepdog in summer?” Well, hold onto your shears, because contrary to common belief, shaving their fluffy coat is not the greatest idea. Their double coat provides natural insulation and protects them from getting overheated. Also, shaving can sometimes cause uneven regrowth, giving your dog an awkward patchy appearance.
Regular baths are another way to control shedding. Not only do they keep your pupper smelling fresh and wonderful, but they also help remove dirt and loose fur. However, remember to use a dog-friendly shampoo that maintains the natural oil balance of their coat and doesn’t dry out their skin.
All in all, the Old English Sheepdog is definitely not a low-maintenance breed, and grooming them demands time, patience and commitment. However, if you are prepared for the task, the companionship and love they provide is well worth the effort!
Now that you’re equipped with information about the intricate fleece of these charming creatures, you can make a more informed decision about bringing one into your home. And, if you already have an Old English Sheepdog, you may now understand a bit more about caring for their famous coat! Just remember, their occasional shedding isn’t a flaw, but rather what keeps them uniquely fluffy.
So, whether you’re a fan of their appearance on ‘Sesame Street,’ or you simply fell in love with their mop-like charm, the Old English Sheepdog is definitely more than meets the eye. Their double-duty coat, while requiring some effort, is certainly part of their appeal and charm. All in all, their fluffy facade is just one more lovable trait of this impressive breed.
