There are hundreds of breeds of dogs and each one of them has their own personality and quirks. What makes a great canine companion for one family may not be the best choice for another. If you are considering an old English Sheepdog and are thinking about adding one to your family here are a few things that you need to think about before getting one.
If you want a small dog you may want to look for a different breed. These canines can weigh as much as one hundred pounds and males can reach up to twenty-two inches in height. Females are smaller but not by much. Surprisingly, though, they can do well in a small home or even an apartment. You will need to exercise them quite a bit but if they have a chance to be active with their family then they can handle living in a smaller home.
If you are looking for a dog that gets along well with people and is easy to socialize you will likely be in luck with an old English as these dogs tend to be quite outgoing and friendly. It is still important for you to introduce them to as many different people and situations as you can before they reach maturity. This way if you use positive reinforcement when they do meet new people you can help ensure that you have a friendly, non-aggressive canine companion.
Grooming can be an issue. These dogs have thick fur that helps to protect them against bad weather. Some people like to clip their dogs' fur short so that they do not need to worry about brushing it. If you are willing to do this it can really help keep the amount of shed fur to a minimum. If you want a dog with an easy-care coat, however, you may want to consider a different breed of dog.
One advantage that this breed has is that they are often fairly quiet dogs. This is a fantastic advantage if you and your dog will live in close proximity to people who are not in your family. While you can expect them to sound an alert if they feel there is an intruder around they do not have the same tendency to be yappy that other dogs may have.
Of course, there is always the chance your dog may suffer from health problems that are common to the breed. One main issue is hip dysplasia. This condition is painful and happens when a dog's hip joints don't form properly. Breeders tend to try and only breed dogs that do not suffer from this condition but there is always the chance a dog will develop it as it nears adulthood.
If you do get an old English it is important for you to make sure that you are feeding them properly. Because they are large breed dogs they need a food that will support rapid growth in their first year. A good quality large breed puppy food is essential and can ensure your puppy grows into a happy, healthy adult.
Once you have your pup there are a few ways that you can help make sure that your dog is happy and well-adjusted. Puppy classes can provide the opportunity to meet other people and dogs. Obedience classes can help you train your dog so that it does not jump up on people and so that it walks better on a leash.
If you want a small dog you may want to look for a different breed. These canines can weigh as much as one hundred pounds and males can reach up to twenty-two inches in height. Females are smaller but not by much. Surprisingly, though, they can do well in a small home or even an apartment. You will need to exercise them quite a bit but if they have a chance to be active with their family then they can handle living in a smaller home.
If you are looking for a dog that gets along well with people and is easy to socialize you will likely be in luck with an old English as these dogs tend to be quite outgoing and friendly. It is still important for you to introduce them to as many different people and situations as you can before they reach maturity. This way if you use positive reinforcement when they do meet new people you can help ensure that you have a friendly, non-aggressive canine companion.
Grooming can be an issue. These dogs have thick fur that helps to protect them against bad weather. Some people like to clip their dogs' fur short so that they do not need to worry about brushing it. If you are willing to do this it can really help keep the amount of shed fur to a minimum. If you want a dog with an easy-care coat, however, you may want to consider a different breed of dog.
One advantage that this breed has is that they are often fairly quiet dogs. This is a fantastic advantage if you and your dog will live in close proximity to people who are not in your family. While you can expect them to sound an alert if they feel there is an intruder around they do not have the same tendency to be yappy that other dogs may have.
Of course, there is always the chance your dog may suffer from health problems that are common to the breed. One main issue is hip dysplasia. This condition is painful and happens when a dog's hip joints don't form properly. Breeders tend to try and only breed dogs that do not suffer from this condition but there is always the chance a dog will develop it as it nears adulthood.
If you do get an old English it is important for you to make sure that you are feeding them properly. Because they are large breed dogs they need a food that will support rapid growth in their first year. A good quality large breed puppy food is essential and can ensure your puppy grows into a happy, healthy adult.
Once you have your pup there are a few ways that you can help make sure that your dog is happy and well-adjusted. Puppy classes can provide the opportunity to meet other people and dogs. Obedience classes can help you train your dog so that it does not jump up on people and so that it walks better on a leash.
About the Author:
You can get a summary of the things to consider before choosing an Old English Sheepdog breeder at http://www.shaggeybarkoes.com right now.
