Got yourself an Old English Sheepdog? Lucky you—and wow, what a commitment! These walking cotton balls are absolute sweethearts with personalities bigger than their already-massive frames. But let’s be real here: that gorgeous, shaggy coat isn’t going to maintain itself.
Your OES needs regular grooming to stay healthy, comfortable, and (let’s face it) socially acceptable. Did you know that without proper care, an Old English Sheepdog’s coat can mat so severely it becomes painful? We’re talking about mats that pull on the skin with every step. Not exactly the happy pup life we’re aiming for.
You can also sign up fpr our Dog Grooming School and Master Pet Groomer Certification Course
The good news? With the right approach, tools, and a bit of patience, you can keep your furry friend looking like the majestic sheep-herding champion they were born to be. And hey—if you’re feeling overwhelmed, our Dog Grooming School and Master Pet Groomer Certification Course can teach you everything you need to know.
Deep Dive into the Old English Sheepdog Coat
Old English Sheepdogs don’t just have fur—they have an event. Their double coat is basically nature’s way of saying, “Let’s see how dedicated this human really is.”
Differences from Other Breeds
Here’s where things get interesting. While most dogs shed constantly (hello, fur tumbleweeds under the couch), Old English Sheepdogs barely shed at all. Instead, their fur just keeps growing. And growing. And growing some more.
That outer coat? Coarse and shaggy, designed to protect working dogs from harsh weather. The undercoat underneath is soft, dense, and basically acts like the world’s fluffiest thermal underwear. Together, they create a coat that can grow over six inches long if left unchecked.
The result? A dog that looks like they’re wearing a living, breathing cloud. Pretty adorable—until you realize what that means for maintenance.
Characteristics Unique to the OES
Let’s talk about the elephant (or should we say sheep?) in the room: matting. Without regular brushing, an OES coat turns into a tangled nightmare faster than you can say “good boy.” We’ve seen dogs come in looking like they’re wearing felt armor—and trust me, that’s not comfortable for anyone involved.
That famous “hair over the eyes” look? It served a purpose when these dogs were herding sheep, protecting their eyes from debris. Now it mostly serves to make you wonder if your dog can actually see where they’re going (spoiler alert: they’re usually fine, but trimming helps).
The thick undercoat is fantastic for keeping them warm in winter but can turn them into a panting mess in summer. Regular grooming isn’t just about looks—it’s about helping them regulate their body temperature.
Must-Have Grooming Supplies
Walk into any pet store and you’ll be overwhelmed by grooming tools. Save yourself the trial and error—here’s what actually works for Old English Sheepdogs.
Choosing the Right Brushes and Combs
A pin brush is your best friend here. It detangles that long coat without causing damage (unlike cheaper brushes that basically rip through fur). Pair it with a slicker brush for removing loose fur and small mats.
But here’s the real game-changer: an undercoat rake. This tool reaches deep into that dense undercoat to remove dead hair before it turns into mats. It’s like archeology, but for dog fur.
For the really stubborn tangles, a coat rake with wide-spaced teeth helps break things up. Think of it as the heavy artillery in your grooming toolkit.
Necessities for Bath Time
Dog shampoo specifically made for long-coated breeds is non-negotiable. Regular human shampoo? Don’t even think about it. You need something that cleans thoroughly without drying out their skin.
Conditioner is equally important—it keeps the coat soft and manageable, making your post-bath brushing session less of an Olympic sport.
Here’s a tip we learned the hard way: invest in a good dog dryer or at least some heavy-duty towels. Drying an Old English Sheepdog with a regular hair dryer is like trying to empty the ocean with a teaspoon.
Additional Tools for Overall Care
Quality nail clippers designed for large dogs are essential. OES nails grow fast, and overgrown nails can affect how they walk.
A grooming table might seem excessive, but your back will thank you after the first few grooming sessions. These dogs are big, and hunching over them for an hour isn’t doing anyone any favors.
Detangling spray can be a lifesaver between baths, helping loosen knots without needing a full wash every time.
Grooming Techniques for the OES
Ready to tackle that coat? Here’s how to do it without losing your mind (or your dog’s patience).
Preventing and Handling Mats
Here’s the truth bomb: if you’re not brushing daily, you’re setting yourself up for disaster. Mats form overnight in this breed—especially behind the ears, under the legs, around the tail, and on the belly.
Brushing and Combing Strategies
Start with a slicker brush to remove loose fur, then follow up with a wide-toothed comb to catch anything you missed. Work in sections, and always brush from the skin outward.
For small tangles, use your fingers to gently separate the fur before brushing. For bigger mats, a de-matting tool or mat splitter can help—but be gentle. Nobody wants a stressed-out, skin-irritated dog.
Line brushing is your secret weapon for thick-coated areas. Part the coat and brush small sections at a time, making sure you reach all layers of fur. It takes longer but prevents the kind of matting that requires professional intervention (and sometimes clippers).
Bath Time Procedures
Bathe your OES every 4-6 weeks, or when they start smelling like… well, like a dog who’s been rolling in things they shouldn’t.
Use lukewarm water and work that shampoo through every layer of fur. Pay extra attention to dirty areas (paws, belly, rear end—you know the spots). Rinse until the water runs clear, then rinse some more. Leftover soap residue can irritate their skin and attract more dirt.
The conditioner step isn’t optional—it makes the difference between a coat you can manage and a coat that manages you.
Drying Techniques Post-Bath
After squeezing out excess water (don’t rub—that creates tangles), use towels to blot the fur. A high-velocity dryer on low heat works wonders if you have one. Keep it moving to avoid overheating any spot.
Brush while drying to prevent the coat from drying in tangles. Yes, it’s time-consuming. No, there’s no way around it.
Haircuts and Styling Options
Let’s talk cuts. The full coat looks stunning but requires serious commitment. We’re talking daily brushing, frequent professional grooming, and the patience of a saint.
The puppy cut (trimmed to 1-2 inches all over) is popular for good reason—it’s adorable and way more manageable. Your dog will be cooler in summer and you’ll actually be able to keep up with maintenance.
The lamb cut is a nice compromise: shorter on the body and legs, longer on the head and neck. It gives that distinctive sheepdog look without the full-coat commitment.
Health and Comfort During Grooming
Grooming isn’t just about looks—it’s about health. And let’s be honest, these sessions can be long for both of you.
Maintaining Ear and Paw Health
Clean those ears weekly with a vet-approved solution. OES ears can trap moisture and debris, leading to infections. Look for redness, swelling, or that unmistakable smell that means trouble.
Trim the hair around the ear canals to improve airflow—it’s a simple step that prevents a lot of problems.
Those big paws collect everything from mud to small rocks between the toe pads. Trim the hair between pads regularly to prevent matting and improve traction on smooth floors. Check for cuts, thorns, or anything that doesn’t belong there.
Integrating Grooming and Activity
Break grooming into shorter sessions if your dog gets stressed. A tired dog is often a calmer dog, so consider scheduling grooming after a good walk or play session.
Mix grooming with treats, praise, and short breaks. The goal is making this a bonding experience, not a wrestling match.
Regular exercise helps distribute natural oils through their coat, making it healthier and easier to manage. Plus, a well-exercised dog is less likely to turn grooming time into chaos.
Styling and Haircut Options
Old English Sheepdogs have thick, fluffy coats that allow for various styling choices. Owners can opt for classic cuts or try more modern looks to suit their dog’s needs and lifestyle.
Traditional Sheepdog Cuts
The full coat is a classic look for Old English Sheepdogs. It keeps the dog’s hair long all over, giving them their iconic fluffy appearance. This style needs daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
The Puppy Cut is another popular choice. It involves trimming the coat to about 1-2 inches long all over the body. This cut makes grooming easier and helps the dog stay cool in warm weather.
The Lamb Cut is a mix between the full coat and the Puppy Cut. It keeps the legs and body short while leaving the head and neck hair longer. This style gives the dog a distinctive look while being easier to maintain.
Modern and Creative Styling
The Teddy Bear Cut is a cute option for Old English Sheepdogs. It involves trimming the body short and leaving the face round and fluffy. This cut makes the dog look like a big, cuddly teddy bear.
Some owners choose to dye their dog’s coat in fun colors or patterns. This can be done safely with pet-friendly dyes, but it’s important to consult a professional groomer first.
Creative clips can shape the dog’s coat into unique designs. Some groomers can create shapes like hearts or stars in the dog’s fur. These styles need frequent touch-ups to keep their shape.
Working with a Professional Groomer
Sometimes you need backup, and that’s perfectly okay. Professional groomers have the tools, experience, and (most importantly) the patience for challenging coats.
Choosing the Right Groomer for Your OES
Look for groomers with experience handling large, double-coated breeds. Not all groomers are created equal, and an inexperienced one can turn your beautiful OES into a patchy disaster.
Ask about their experience with Old English Sheepdogs specifically. Check reviews from other OES owners—they’ll tell you everything you need to know about quality and patience levels.
A good groomer will ask about your dog’s temperament, health issues, and your preferences for coat length. They should be happy to show you their facility and explain their process.
Preparing for the Grooming Session
Brush your OES before the appointment to remove loose fur and tangles. This makes the groomer’s job easier.
Bring your dog’s health records. Tell the groomer about any skin issues or sensitive areas.
Pack treats to help your dog stay calm. Bring a favorite toy for comfort.
Let the groomer know your preferences for coat length and style. Discuss any concerns you have about the grooming process.
Collaboration Between Owner and Groomer
Your groomer isn’t just a service provider—they’re part of your dog’s care team. They can spot skin issues, lumps, or other health concerns you might miss during home grooming.
Be honest about your dog’s behavior and any sensitive areas. Set up a regular schedule the more they know, the better they can handle your pup safely and comfortably.
Ask for tips on home maintenance between visits. A good groomer wants you to succeed and will share tricks that make your life easier.
Daily Care Routine
Living with an Old English Sheepdog means integrating grooming into your daily routine. Here’s how to make it work without losing your sanity.
Integrating Grooming into Daily Activities
Brush every single day. Yes, even when you’re tired, running late, or just don’t feel like it. Missing even one day can set you back significantly with this breed.
Wipe their face daily with a damp cloth to prevent tear stains and keep the eye area clean. Trim the hair around their eyes as needed—your dog will appreciate being able to see clearly.
Weekly ear cleaning and regular teeth brushing round out the routine. It sounds like a lot, but once it becomes habit, it’s just part of life with your fluffy companion.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
These dogs need at least 30 minutes to an hour of activity daily. A well-exercised OES is a cooperative OES during grooming time.
Puzzle toys and training sessions keep their minds occupied and reduce anxiety during grooming. A bored OES is a wiggly, uncooperative OES.
Consider activities that tap into their herding instincts—agility courses or even organized herding trials can provide both physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Seasonal Grooming Considerations
Your OES’s grooming needs change with the seasons, and adapting your routine makes a huge difference.
How to Manage the Heavy Shedding Periods
Twice a year—spring and fall—your barely-shedding dog turns into a fur factory. During these periods, daily brushing becomes even more critical.
Consider professional grooming at the start of shedding season to remove loose undercoat in bulk. It’s an investment that pays off in easier maintenance at home.
Use this time to check for any skin issues that might have been hidden under all that fur.
Be Sure to Adjust Grooming Routines for Seasons
Summer might call for shorter cuts to help your dog stay cool, but don’t go too short—their coat also protects from sunburn and insects.
Keep paw pad hair trimmed short year-round, but especially in summer when hot pavement can burn sensitive pads.
Winter coats need extra attention due to snow, ice, and salt. More frequent brushing prevents matting from wet conditions, and a leave-in conditioner helps protect against dry winter air.
Never shave an OES in winter—that coat is their natural insulation system.
Frequently Asked Sheepdog Questions
Old English Sheepdog owners often have questions about grooming their fluffy companions. Here are answers to some common queries about keeping these shaggy dogs looking their best.
What is the ideal grooming kit for an Old English Sheepdog?
A good grooming kit for an Old English Sheepdog includes a slicker brush, metal comb, and detangling spray. Scissors and clippers are useful for trimming. Nail clippers and ear cleaners are also important.
How frequently should an Old English Sheepdog be professionally groomed?
If you’re finding mats you can’t handle, if grooming sessions are becoming battles, or if you’re just feeling overwhelmed, it’s time for professional help. No judgment—these dogs are a lot of work.
What are the costs involved in grooming an Old English Sheepdog?
Plan on $75-$150 per session every 6-8 weeks, depending on your location and your dog’s coat condition. It seems like a lot, but consider the alternative: replacing furniture damaged by an ungroomed, stressed-out dog.
Can an Old English Sheepdog be shaved during the summer for comfort?
Please don’t. Their double coat actually helps regulate temperature. Trimming shorter is fine, but shaving can cause skin problems and make them more susceptible to overheating, not less.
How do I know if my dog needs professional grooming?
If you’re finding mats you can’t handle, if grooming sessions are becoming battles, or if you’re just feeling overwhelmed, it’s time for professional help. No judgment—these dogs are a lot of work.
How can I manage my Old English Sheepdog’s shedding?
Regular brushing helps manage Old English Sheepdog shedding. Brush 2-3 times a week with a slicker brush. Use a de-shedding tool during heavy shedding seasons. Vacuuming often keeps loose hair under control.
Ready for a Beautifully Groomed Best Friend?
Look, owning an Old English Sheepdog isn’t for everyone. They’re high-maintenance in the grooming department, there’s no getting around that. But for the right family, these gentle giants are absolutely worth every minute spent with a brush in hand.
The key is finding a routine that works for you and your dog, whether that’s daily home grooming, regular professional appointments, or (most likely) some combination of both.
Remember: a well-groomed OES isn’t just about looks. It’s about comfort, health, and the special bond that forms when you take the time to care for your dog properly.
Need help getting started or feeling overwhelmed by your fluffy friend’s needs? We’re here for you. Schedule a grooming session with us, check out our grooming school, or simply reach out through our contact form. We’ve been helping families navigate the wonderful, woolly world of dog ownership for years—and we’d love to help you too.
Your OES is counting on you to keep them comfortable and healthy. And trust us, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of running your hands through a perfectly groomed, mat-free coat. Both you and your dog deserve that satisfaction.