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14 Incredible Facts About Bobtails That You Didn’t Know

Published: · Modified: by Ekaterina Sova · This post may contain affiliate links

Has Bobtails caught your attention? Why wouldn't it? Under the shaggy coat of this dog hides a wayward fun animal with perseverance and innate shepherd instincts. Bobtail or Old English Sheepdog loves people and is a good watchman, although it does not belong to a guard dog. However, the dog needs attention to itself, especially in matters of hair care.

If you want to know more about them, here are 14 incredible facts about Bobtails that you didn't know.

#1 Origin history

A Bobtail in a summer haircut while sitting on the couch
Until 1885, such a breed did not officially exist. But this year, the famous English expert on the breeding of shepherd dogs Freeman Lloyd presented this dog as a shepherd. Bobtail's natural instincts have survived to this day.

#2 Bobtail Character

A Bobtail with a straight hair sitting on the purple couch
Bobtail dogs are often found in Hollywood paintings, both in films and in cartoons. The nature of the dogs of this breed is as diverse as the nature of the Hollywood stars. Some may be very sociable, while others may be constrained, some may be funny, and some may be serious. A common feature is that all bobtails related to shepherd dogs are infinitely loyal to their owner. Great guard dogs are made from Old English Shepherds, as they are quick and alert to sound. Bobtails love to play with children, they are patient and kind. These dogs are suitable for experienced dog breeders who lead an active lifestyle.

#3 Maintenance and care

A Bobtail in a summer haircut standing on top of the groomer's table
The Bobtail belongs to those breeds of dogs whose grooming causes a lot of trouble even for experienced dog breeders. To keep the coat healthy and well-groomed, the Bobtail owner will have to spend three to four hours every week. These dogs shed very much, so it is necessary to comb the hair thoroughly daily with a special brush. This will allow timely removal of dead hair and prevent the occurrence of spools and tangling of hair.

#4 Drooling

A Bobtail in a summer haircut while standing on top of the grooming table
All Bobtails are prone to excessive salivation, which can lead to discoloration of the hair around the mouth. Therefore, it is necessary to wash the dog several times a day, especially after eating. The back of the dog’s body requires careful washing. If this requirement is neglected, then clumps of dirt will form in the wool, which is not so easy to remove.

#5 Bathing

A Bobtail with a long hair lying on the floor
When it comes to swimming, many owners prefer the services of a professional groomer. It is necessary to bathe the dog often, about several times a month or as it gets dirty, and they get dirty very quickly.

#6 Еars

A Bobtail lying on the floor while looking up with its begging face
It is necessary to regularly inspect the ears of the bobtail for sulfur contaminants, inflammatory processes, and infections. The ears are treated with a special solution prescribed by the veterinarian. Ears can be cleaned with a cotton swab, but in no case should you use a cotton ear swab with direct cleaning of the ear canal.

#7 Teeth

A Bobtail with its hair covering its eyes while sitting on the couch
Weekly brushing is a must, which will prevent tooth problems and ensure fresh dog breathing. Do not forget about the monthly clipping of claws.

#8 Training and education

A Bobtail sitting on top of the grooming table
Bobtail, by virtue of their shepherd nature, are quite independent. In terms of training, these dogs are not a "gift". They carry out any commands while they like it. A dog should be trained by a person who knows how to maintain leadership qualities in his relationship with the dog. It is very important not to give pet concessions. If Bobtail feels that he is on the way, then he will simply manipulate it. Therefore, during training and training, show persistence and self-confidence.

#9 Health and Disease

ABobtail in summer haircut while sitting on top of the grooming table
The average lifespan of Bobtail is about 10-12 years. The main health problems include: bloating (expansion of the stomach and inversion), cataracts, dysplasia, ataxia, cerebellar abiotrophy, congenital deafness, dilated cardiomyopathy, epilepsy, autoimmune hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia, congenital ulcerative proptosis, elbow cancer, elbow cancer, retina, cryptorchidism, and hip dysplasia. In addition, many bobtails has side effects on certain drugs, for example, on ivermectin, which can cause chills, ataxia, coma, or even death.

#10 Obedience

A Bobtail in a summer haircut standing on the ground in the forest
Bobtails need training and socialization. These dogs are very active, even a certain riot sometimes manifests itself at a young age.

#11 Cleanliness

A Bobtail sitting on the grass while panting with its tongue out
Bobtails do not differ in their cleanliness: they drool and shed much, and the dog’s hair quickly gets dirty.

#12 Activity

A Bobtail with a shaggy hair standing on the grass with a woman beside him
Bobtails were bred as shepherd dogs, so they are full of energy, which must be realized with a large number of active exercises.

#13 Loneliness

A Bobtail puppy sitting on the floor
In dogs of this breed, the fear of loneliness is clearly expressed. Do not leave the dog alone for a long time, this can cause severe stress in the animal.

#14 Hair

A Bobtail puppy in summer haircut while standing on the floor
Caring for the hair of Bobtails requires a lot of time and effort.
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