His distinctive appearance with a thickset, cobby body profusely combined with his delightful shuffling, bear-like gait, makes him stand out in a crowd. His thick, two ply coat needs regular and careful grooming in order to look its magnificent best. Attention to the ears should always be part of the general grooming routine.

The Old English Sheepdog has a sweet, affectionate laid-back temperament which fits easily into any family situation, making him an extremely reliable children's playmate or household companion.

A quite easy-going dog by nature, he nevertheless is a good watchdog when required, being particularly protective of any young children in the family with whom he adopts the role of a big woolly nanny. A home loving dog who is not given to straying or fighting. the Old English Sheepdog requires a moderate amount of food and exercise. He gets on well with other dogs, but above all else thrives on human companionship, often acting more like a four-legged person than a dog himself.

The Old English Sheepdog stands approximately 56 cm to 66 cm at the shoulder, and weighs from 32 kg to 45 kg.