Old English Sheepdog Breed Introduction:

The Ancient English Shepherd, also known as Bobtail or Old English Sheepdog, originated in England and stands as one of the oldest sheepdog breeds in the country. It is an enchanting family dog with a rich, dense coat that is well-balanced, not excessive, and a muscular, robust physique.

Development and Origin of the Ancient English Shepherd:
The Ancient English Shepherd is one of the oldest sheepdog breeds in England, developed in rural areas of the western part of the country to drive livestock to pastures. Its ancestry includes the Collie and various European sheepdog breeds. By the 19th century, the Ancient English Shepherd became widely used in agricultural regions and made its public debut at a British exhibition in 1873.

Physical Characteristics of the Ancient English Shepherd:

• Size: Height at the shoulders, approximately 22 inches (55.8 cm) or more for males and 21 inches (53.3 cm) or more for females.
• Overall Appearance: Robust, nearly square from the side, with a large, thick, and textured coat, agile long legs, and a strong body structure that allows expressive movements. Its natural contours should not be artificially altered by trimming.
• Proportions: Body length (distance from shoulder blade to the prominence of the buttocks) equal to shoulder height, with no appearance of excessively long legs or a short body.
• Constitution: Well-muscled and substantial bone structure.

Intelligence of the Ancient English Shepherd:
The Ancient English Shepherd ranks 63rd among pet dogs in terms of intelligence. Adult Ancient English Shepherds are generally not prone to excessive running or jumping. While they can be mischievous as puppies, they become well-behaved and energetic when adults. They are usually quiet when someone is home and can be ignored, but they might exhibit destructive behavior when left alone, showcasing strength and agility. They are playful, enjoy chasing objects, and may engage in chewing if bored.

The Ancient English Shepherd is known for its friendly, loyal, and gentle nature. It craves human companionship and is affectionate even with strangers. These dogs maintain an optimistic and joyful attitude towards life, showing affection and loyalty to their owners and family members. Their gentle disposition does not hinder them from being excellent guard dogs, as they are quick to protect themselves when under attack. Despite their friendly nature, they make devoted guardians and easily adapt to family life, especially enjoying the company of children.