Group: Herding
Breed Family: Old English Sheepdog |
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While the origins of the Old English Sheepdog are uncertain, it does have some similarities to the Russian Owtchar, and the French Briard. Its history can be traced back to at least the eighteenth century when an example of the breed was painted by Thomas Gainsborough pictured with the Duke of Buccleuch, although Bearded Collie and Dandie Dinmont enthusiasts claim it as an early example of their breed.
This breed was probably developed in the west of England in the counties of Devon and Somerset, as a droving dog, as opposed to a herding dog. In the twentieth century, it has become a popular show dog and pet. |