Old English Sheepdog Breed Profile

The Old English Sheepdog is a big dog, with a height of 20-24 inches and weigh over 60 pounds, with some weighing up to 100 pounds. They have a shaggy coat, which is thicker around the hind legs, with a waterproof, almost downy, underside. Their head hair often covers, or shields, their eyes, like a natural pair of sunglasses. They are grey to blue in colour mixed with copious amounts of white, they can also be brown but this is not the norm. They are a strong dog, with great stamina, and their general muscle shows that. Some have docked tails but the ones that don't have a feathered abundant look to them. The main body is quite short, wide, and muscular. They have the look of a dog you could instantly fall in love with.

History. As its name suggests the Old English Sheepdog was originally bred in the 18th century as a sheep herding dog that could also protect the flock from predator attacks, most commonly fox's. The shepherds used to have the tails docked to prevent entanglement, stop any predator from being able to attach, and general cleanliness. Some puppies of the breed are actually born with no, or very short, tails, which also encouraged the docking of the ones that had tails. It was also common for farmers to sheer the dog along with the sheep and use their copious hair for making, blankets, clothing, cushions, and similar items. Fame came to this breed in the 1980s when a company used one in their advertising campaign thereby earning the nickname Dulux dog.

Temperament. The Old English sheepdog has a temperament that is somewhat typical of many sheep dogs. It is sociable, friendly, playful, intelligent, faithful and protective, to name but a few of its character traits. They love being with the family and play well with children. Care should be taken when playing, as they do get fully involved and may get a hint over zealous. Given their size, weight and strength, it is a good idea to supervise play when small children are involved. Should the dog happen to injure a member of the family it would be very unhappy, so it is only fair on both the family and the dog to ensure a safe playtime. One thing to be aware of is, as they were bred originally as herding dogs and their instincts run deep, there is a possibility they will try to round up the children. If nothing else it would be fun to watch.

Health issues. Generally, the Old English Sheepdog do not have any serious genetic problems; they have the common thoroughbred issue of hip displasia. Their minor problems are. Cataracts and Entropion. Entropian is when the eyelid curls into the eye; this can of course cause severe irritation to the eye, and needs to be rectified by a vet.

Grooming. Are you ready for this? Only joking. Apart from needing better, and slightly different, tools, the grooming of the Old English Sheepdog is quite similar to other dogs. They need to be groomed 1-3 times a week, starting with a comb like tool; either a dematting comb or a rake (a dog grooming rake, not a garden rake). Once the dogs' hair is unmated and knots removed then a normal brushing will suffice, as a rule of thumb. Cutting the hair is probably going to mean a trip to the salon, as it is nearly as bad as shearing sheep.

Living conditions. Although the Old English Sheepdog breed has a thick luxurious coat, they can not be kept outdoors in cold climates. They enjoy the normal warm home, and bed, as do we all. Some care should be given though as you do not want to cover them to get too hot, although they should throw off items if too warm.

For more information on different Dog Breeds, Dog Training and Teacup Puppies for sale including Teacup Yorkies, Teacup Chihuahuas and Teacup Morkies please visit our websites below.

Teacup Yorkie

Puppies or Dogs

Puppy Dog - But I Want A Puppy - Now What? Part One Of A Series

Many people think about getting or giving dogs or puppies as gifts. I would highly suggest that before you get or give a dog or puppy as a gift to someone, make sure you or they want one in the first place.

In many cases basic dog ownership responsibilities are not discussed. Additionally, many are surprised by the extent of the responsibilities associated with dog ownership. One needs to understand what to expect as a dog owner before acquiring one. There are restrictions and tasks involved with dog or puppy ownership.

If you are thinking of getting a dog or puppy or of giving one as a gift, make sure you or they at least have some initial education on ownership responsibilities. If you have not owned a dog or puppy before, I can guarantee you will be surprised by the extent of what is required in having a one.

You can be amazed at the problems and frustrations that one can have, that has not been formally introduced to pet ownership responsibilities prior to taking in a pet, especially a puppy. Don't forget if you had a pet as a child, Mom and Dad are not around to take care of your pet's needs and training. You Are! This is why our dog shelters are spilling over with unwanted, untrained dogs!

Do your research first and then you can determine if pet ownership is right for you or the person you would like to give a pet to, at this particular time. Dogs are living creatures, not fashion accessories; owning one entails about as much commitment and responsibility as raising a child.

What type of dog would be good for you or the person you would like to surprise with this little bundle of fur?

• Should the pup grow up to be big, medium, or small in size?


• Long hair, medium length, or short haired?


• Would regular grooming to keep the hair knot free, and clean become a burden to you or them?


• What if there is a need for regular haircuts is this practical, affordable?


• Or would a dog that is not in need of much grooming and especially haircuts be a wiser choice?

What about allergies? Have you given this any thought? There is nothing worse then to give or get a puppy that you fall in love with, only to have to give it up a few months down the road because of allergies. Check this out before hand.

Did you know that there are breeds that are better suited for families with allergies? Did you know that most dogs shed, usually twice a year, especially if on a quality pet food, and no it is not most of the commercial dog foods in your local grocery store, pet shops, or feed stores. Some dogs are what we call coat retainers and need more grooming.

How about sex, male verses female. Did you know that there are more recorded bites from females? And let us not forget about neutering and spaying. What about puppy shots and vetting? What about quality food, and other items that one will need to care for and protect this new family member. Will that be a financial strain or a welcomed expense?

There is a lot to consider before getting or giving that lovely ball of fur even more then mentioned here like breeds and their characteristics, snappiness, stability, reliability, trainability, activity level indoors and out, and so on. But without a doubt puppies and dogs can greatly enrich and enhance your life if you know what to expect, and what is expected of you.

Next we will talk about different breeds and their characteristics, activity levels, dominance to name a few.

To discover more about the secrets and communicating with your dog and learning how to be his leader, sign up right now for Tracy Lenderink's FREE Ebook (a $27 dollar value). To find out how to do exactly that go to: http://www.simpledogtrainingsecrets.com Read about the exciting FREE Teleseminar/Webinars with top Dog Experts on subjects like: Nutrition, Obedience, Control, Aggression, Pet Massage, Animal Signing, Holistic Vetting and more.

Tracy Lenderink, has had a love and passion with special communication with dogs all her life. Tracy has spent over 40 years as an Animal Behaviorist, Trainer, and Seminar Speaker assisting pet owners with their problem and issues. It has been said of Tracy that she is a "Master in Creating a Bridge of Knowledge Between the Animal and Human Spirit."

Top 5 Tips For Hair Growth

If you're looking to grow your locks faster, longer or thicker, here are some of the top tips for hair growth that will get your style growing.  It's not that hard - it just requires some consistent techniques and a few products that can stimulate the growth you want or need.

1. 
   Keep It Clean - Though seemingly obvious, keeping your scalp and hair clean is your first best step.  Oil and dirt can clog follicle pores reducing nutrition delivery to the root and shaft.  Likewise, product residue can damage and restrict blood flow - stripping hydration and vitamins.


2. 
   Watch The Products You Use - Though many of us are attracted to the low price (especially in this economy) and the squeaky clean feeling many shampoos give us, many store-bought brands use harsh surfactants that can strip your scalp and hair of natural oils and nutrition.  This isn't good.  Look for salon-grade products that are formulated to improve overall scalp and follicle health.  They generally may cost more, but they are often formulated with active ingredients that work.  Some of the best ingredients to look for are Sodium Laureth Sulfate, botanical extracts, Trichogen, and Panthenol.  You get soothing relief for the scalp and improved growth - and the use of these ingredients are more expensive because they work to stimulate growing phases in the follicle strands.


3. 
   Be Gentle Styling - Heat damage, excessive combing or brushing, and chemical treatments - perms and coloring, can take a great toll on your style.  In fact, over-styling is a primary cause of damage, especially as we begin to age (over the 40 year old mark).  Chemical treatments break-down protein bonds and wreak havoc on amino acids - both vital to healthy and normal growth.  Heat damage from curling irons, flat irons and curlers "steam" away moisture and hydration leaving follicle strands depleted, dry, dull and susceptible to bacteria and fungus.


4. 
   Supplement Your Diet - Many of us know the importance of vitamins for better health.  Hair vitamins are specially formulated to provide minerals, amino acids and nutrients that may be lacking in our diets, yet are critical to better growing locks.  Vitamin B-12, Niacin, Biotin, Vitamins A and E are all well known for accelerating growth while providing improved shine, body and thickness.  Omega 3's have become increasingly popular for toning and adding elasticity to our skin (as well as improving organ function).  Well the same is true for our hair.  Omega 3's increase elasticity, Keratin production, and add strength - reducing breaking, split-ends, and snapping.


5. 
   Hair Growth Products - If you have dealt with hair loss, thinning or pre-mature balding, then you have probably tried - and been frustrated with - the claims made to "restore your hair".  While many may indeed be a bit on the "shady" side, there are products that have been shown to work.  Shampoos and conditioners with Trichogen have been shown effective at stopping or retarding many types of loss and thinning.  Similar to Minoxidil, Trichogen is used in several forms of products - follicle stimulators (sprays), shampoo, topical applications, and in some conditioners.  It helps neutralize DHT and works similarly to Zinc PCA to control excessive oil, while cleaning dirt and product residue.

So there you have it...tips for hair growth.  Used in conjunction as part of an overall hair care regimen, they can help get your style growing faster, longer and healthier.

Shop online at HairEnergizer for effective, proven hair growth products.

HairEnergizer is a leading manufacturer and distributor of shampoos and conditioners for hair loss, and and natural products to rejuvenate, stimulate and restore follicle development - including advanced, broad-spectrum hair vitamins.