Famous Old English Sheepdogs

Famous Bobtails

The number of famous Old English Sheepdogs around the world is quite astounding. These shaggy dogs are well known for having a clownish, playful attitude when they are off the clock. Great for herding, this breed is also an excellent choice for a watch dog. They have a life span average of 10 to 12 years and weigh about 65 pounds. This large breed of dog is commonly referred to as the Bobtail. With their winning demeanor and charmingly good looks, it's no wonder there are so many famous Old English Sheepdog.

Famous Old English Sheepdogs:

The most famous Old English Sheepdog aren't so much the dogs as what they represent. Dulux Paint company has used this breed for their official mascot since the 196o's.

Well known Dulux paint mascots:

• Shepton Dash - 1st one serving for 8 years
• Fernville Lord Digby - He is the most famous of the brood known as Digby.
• Spud - A "meet and greet" dog for the company.
• Don - Current dog being used in ads

Martha - Martha, belonging to Paul McCartney, is a feature in the 11th Beatles' album with "Martha My Dear".

Tiny - Tiny was the pet of President Franklin D. Roosevelt

Disney Films: Many Old English Sheepdog have appeared in Disney films or come from the stories produced by Walt Disney:

• The Colonel - 101 Dalmatians
• Nana - The wonderful nanny in Peter Pan
• Max - The big floppy dog belonging to Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid
• The Shaggy Dog - From the series of movies with that human that transforms to an Old English Sheepdog.
• Mooch - This animated figure appears in Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure

Sam Sheepdog - Sam is the dog that appeared in many Looney Tunes episodes. He was usually seen with Ralph Wolf.

Barkley - Who could forget Barkley, that adorable, overgrown Muppet from Sesame Street? Well, he might be a bit odd with his ragged orange and white fur, but he is still loveable and clownish as we expect sheepdog to be. Barkley is also friendly and good at barking. He has his own page at Sesamestreet.org.

Some people mistake Sandy from Little Orphan Annie for this breed, but Sandy is an Otterhound.

Old English Sheepdogs as Pets:

These dogs can make great pets due to their personalities, but their size and features can have their drawbacks. Their coat makes it near impossible for them to tolerate warmer climates and requires a great deal of maintenance. Although their hair hangs down in their eyes, they surprisingly have great eyesight, but all that fur can cause an allergy sufferer some problems.Their size, along with their clownish nature can be a disaster waiting to happen. They can easily knock over and hurt toddlers and elderly people. Old English Sheepdogs will thrive better in places where they can get exercise because of their high energy levels.  If you're looking for a family pet, consider adopting what is called a "flawed" breed dog. Any bobtail that shows signs of brown in their fur are not up to breed standards. That does affect their ability to give and receive love. While there are famous Old English Sheepdog around the world, there are plenty who aren't famous but to their owners.

Anyone hoping to get a dog should research the breed before hand. With enough research, you can find a dog that best fits your needs.