Placement Directors:
 

"Why Should I Adopt an OES
or Other Homeless Canine?"

By adopting, you are helping to save the life of a dog in need of a forever home. Dogs purchased from a commercial kennel, pet store, puppy mill, or backyard breeder perpetuates the "puppies-for-profit" industry.

Rescue organizations are not against all breeding. There are a few high quality, conscientious, reputable breeders who understand the need to continue the breed without contributing to the countless number of homeless pets each year.

To Live With an Old English Sheepdog Requires PATIENCE and a GOOD SENSE of HUMOR...

This breed can be bumptious and flighty, and can become restless and flaky if confined too much. They can also be STUBBORN, and can become aggressive if treated harshly. A trainer who is familiar with Old English Sheepdog behavior and who works only in POSITIVE reinforcement training is strongly recommended! Daily walks and play time help the OES work off some of their energy and they return home a tired couch or doggy-bed potato!

'maggie'

An OES who is trained with positive reinforcement training can likely be the greatest dog you'll come across. Personality plus. They thrive on being with their people, "in on the action" and being the object of your affection. A properly trained OES is a best friend for life and will return your affection ten fold.

Grooming...

*OES require a great amount of grooming time and attention or their coat will become matted, and possibly odorous. A matted OES is at great risk for skin conditions and hot spots "moist dermatitis". A matted OES has no isolation from the elements of either heat or cold. This can be prevented with care and regular grooming. *OES also need special attention paid to their paw pads. The fur between the pads must be clipped very short or clippered to prevent dirt and debris from injuring the paw pad. In winter months, snow and ice can pack into the pads causing frost bite and permanent injury to the pad. During all months, an OES is at risk of picking up toxins on the their pads such as oil, antifreeze, salt, debris, etc. Special care and attention must be paid to avoid injury to your bobtails pads. * OES grow hair in and deep inside their ear canal. Along with the wax build up, this can be a breeding ground for bacteria and infection. The ears of an OES should be cleaned weekly with ear cleaner and dried thoroughly. At the same time - all hair inside should be pulled (removed) to prevent possible infection or hearing loss. Look inside your dogs ears. Are they clean? Dirt, wax, debris and hair free? *We will help you with ANY grooming questions you might come across with your OES. *Please be prepared to spend hours at home grooming along with trips to a professional groomer regularly. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience between you and your rescued friend. A well groomed OES is a happy OES and a happy family!

'maisie, spenser 'n fletcher'

Have small children?

While some believe that OES are good with small children and the thought of having a "Nanny" companion for your little ones sounds romantic -- Please remember that the NUMBER ONE reason OES get SURRENDERED to pounds, shelters and rescue is because the OES grows too large for the children and their family. OES are rambunctious and have been known to knock down children in play. They are only doing what their herding instincts are telling them to do ... but the dog gets blamed for accidents that could have been prevented by waiting just a little longer until your child(ren) are a little older. Remember! That cute little puppy you see will be a LARGE puppy in just a few short months. They grow big very quickly. ** Please ask us how to get answers, daily support and other advice from OES owners with lots of experience in this regard before considering adding an OES to your family. *An older OES with a proven sound temperament amongst children may be a better option for your family *

'sammi and her pal'

Chewing...

In addition, OES like to chew. Please be prepared with healthy chews and healthy chew toys like Pizzles AKA Bully Bones, Booda bones, some Nylabones, stuffed - then frozen Kongs, etc. to satisfy this need. Pressed rawhide or a rawhide chips (in moderation!) and 'Made in the USA' (rawhides made outside of the USA are not regulated and may contain formaldehyde) With the possible exception of a stuffed Kong or Nylabone for strong chewers, please do not leave your dog unattended with it's chews.

'louie, grover 'n sophie (deaf)'

"Uh ohh! Someone needs training!"

Some uprights (humans) need to be trained not to leave food items on counters. NOTE: This pair was fostered with MN OES Rescue... their foster mum has since been trained!  Click here for information on Positive Reinforcement Training.

'harlow 'n lily'