In brief, the Old English Sheepdog is a large, loving, lovable, hairy clown.  The OES stands between 22 and 28 inches at the withers and weighs between 60 and 100 pounds.  At first glance, these ambling giants are intimidating due to their size.  Their abundant coat gives the illusion that they are much larger than they are in reality.
     The personality of the OES is that of a playful clown.  Even though the breed was developed to be a herding dog, they did not live a high strung life style.  If the sheep were contentedly grazing and there were no predatory threats, the dog could and would enjoy the peace and tranquility.  However, if needed, the power and energy to guard were there in reserve.  The herding and guarding characteristics are retained in the present day OES.  They are very attuned to their family (the people flock).  When the family is playful - they are playful. When the family is quiet, the OES is at rest.  They are totally committed to their family, they will protect their people flock with their life.  The greatest joy an OES can achieve is to have playtime with his family, followed by everyone relaxing together.  An OES is not a dog to exiled to the backyard.  For the most part an OES will not exercise itself.  They need their people flock to play with them.  They need their family contact, they need to know that all is well.
     Maintaining an OES takes a commitment from all the members of a family.  They need to commit time to exercise (playtime).  They need to commit time for coat maintenance.  Generally, three to four hours a week must be spent combing and/or brushing the dog.  An unkempt OES can be a smelly, matted, bedraggled mess, and could also become a health problem as well..  Family time, while watching TV for instance, spent maintaining the dog's coat will help keep the dog healthier, provide bonding time, and make the OES a more welcomed family member.

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