I am used to watching movies or TV shows and one particular character steals the show quietly. Remember the beloved Disney movie ‘The Little Mermaid’? The sea witch’s lair might have been eerie, but it was Max, Prince Eric’s Old English Sheepdog that we all fell in love with. Or the lovable, overweight Ambrosius from the ’80s cult-classic film ‘Labyrinth’, who faithfully guided Sir Didymus through the maze despite his clearly visible terror. These characters were not lead actors but somehow, their adorable antics left a mark!
Do these big-screen appearances of Old English Sheepdogs make you wonder – ‘Is an Old English Sheepdog a calm dog?’ Maybe you’re even thinking of bringing one of these shaggy-haired furries as a family pet.
Well, buckle up folks, you’re in for a fun ride. We’re about to embark on an incredible journey deep into the world of Old English Sheepdogs, exploring their temperament, character traits, and ultimately answering your question. So, let’s dive in, shall we?
Old English Sheepdogs, fondly known as ‘Bobtails’, have been around for ages originating from the early 19th century in England. Bred for driving cattle and sheep to the market, they were popular among farmers for their intelligent and adaptable nature. Don’t let their bundle of hair fool you – these dogs are not just about the looks, they’re also about the brains!
Are they calm? Well, they are AND they aren’t! Just like the graying skies of England, the temperament of an Old English Sheepdog is a mix. Imagine a teeter-totter, on one end, you got the calm, composed furry buddy, and on the other end, you have jovial entertainers, who, given a chance, would love to be the life of the party.
Old English Sheepdogs are patient and gentle, making them fantastic companions for children. On a regular day, you might find them lazing around or following you quietly through the house. They embody that beautiful, calm demeanor that Hollywood engraved in our minds.
But don’t be startled when you see the party face of your Bobtail dog during playtime! These dogs love fun and frolic. Their exercise routine should preferably be sprinkling of morning jogs and a dash of hide-and-seek in the evening. Playdates with fur friends? Even better. They get super excited like school kids with a pinch of hyperactive tendencies once in a while.
Wanna hear a secret about these cats, er, dogs? Old English Sheepdogs have this quirky cat-like behavior – they use their front paws to play with or move objects. This delightful trait is sure to keep you on your toes, adding a dose of entertainment to your life. Living with these furballs, life would be somewhere between a party and a meditation retreat.
Are Old English Sheepdogs good family pets? Absolutely! They fit snugly into the family dynamics and are gentle with children. However, they are oblivious to their large size and might unknowingly tumble over toddlers during a play session. Nonetheless, these dogs are protective and responsible, keeping an eye out for the little ones in the house like a lovable, shaggy nanny.
Socialization comes naturally to them. They relish the company of other pets and tend to be cordial, making annoying tiffs quite rare. That said, make sure to introduce them cautiously to your other pets to ensure a smooth transition.
Wooh…that’s quite a lot about our big friend, isn’t it? So, where does this leave us on the ‘calm’ meter?
Let’s get the facts straight. For those picturing a docile, aloof dog when thinking ‘calm’, the Old English Sheepdog might come across as a surprise. Their calm comes with a dash of lively peppiness. If they had a motto, it would be – ‘Work hard, Play hard’.
Envision the calm of a sage when they are snoozing or strolling around your house, combined with the exuberance of a stage performer during their playtime. A harmonious blend of tranquility and high spiritedness – that’s Old English Sheepdog for you!
Whether you’re looking for a lovely addition to your family or soulful, four-legged companion, the Old English Sheepdog is an absolute charmer. Their winning combination of being both calm and lively ensures a fun-filled environment in the house.
Now you have the answer! So, if your life is set for a dose of boundless love, copious fur, constant companionship, and innocent entertainment, an Old English Sheepdog might just be your perfect match! Just remember, every big step begins with a small ‘paw’, and it’s all worth it with these adorable souls.
