Bobtail

Characteristics of Bobtail

Brief information

• Kind, cheerful and absolutely non-aggressive dogs;
• Adore children, excellent nannies;
• Shepherd dogs, in the character of which service qualities are still traced.

Character

The Bobtail is an English herding dog breed that has been known since ancient times. It is believed that these animals were brought to the UK from Eastern Europe, and their main relative is the South Russian Shepherd Dog. As a result of crossing the sheepdog with local shepherd dogs, the bobtail or, as it is also called, the Old English Sheepdog, turned out. Officially, the breed was presented at the exhibition only in 1865.

The origin of the name of the breed is interesting. “Bobtail” in translation from English literally means “stubby tail”. The fact is that in England the tax on a dog did not depend on the size of the pet, but on the length of its tail. To reduce this amount, the shepherds – the owners of bobtails – docked their tails.

Representatives of the Bobtail breed are one of the most good-natured dogs in the world. Aggression has been eradicated from their nature for hundreds of years, and today it is considered a vice and a non-conformity to the standard. Bobtail will never attack the enemy, bite him or try to injure him. He just has a different tactic. Dogs of this breed drive the aggressor into a corner and, as it were, lean on him, pressing him to the ground. It was in this way that the bobtails protected the flock of sheep from predators.

Behaviour

Bobtails are smart, calm and very affectionate. In no case should you shout at this dog, and you should scold it with caution. The owners never cease to be surprised: the pets seem to understand their speech. True, despite this, the bobtail cannot be trained, but you can work with it. He does not accept rude treatment and commanding tone, but he will calmly listen and fulfill any request.

Old English Sheepdogs love attention. Without communication and conversations, they become withdrawn, unsociable, and may begin to yearn. These dogs behave like playful and energetic puppies even in old age.

Representatives of the breed are distinguished by heroic patience and love for children. These dogs can be left with kids – the bobtail will be a great nanny. He gets along quite well with animals, the main thing is to introduce the pets gradually.

Bobtail Care

Bobtail has a long, thick and fluffy coat. Care must be appropriate. The dog needs to be combed with a massage brush every week, and once a month it is necessary to comb the coat well to avoid the formation of tangles.

Often, animals have to be trimmed, since the hairs do not fall out during molting. Bathe bobtails infrequently, as needed.

It is important not to forget to monitor the health of your pet’s teeth.

Conditions of detention

Bobtails feel great both in a city apartment and in a country house. They are not afraid of the cold and tolerate heat well thanks to their thick undercoat. Walking bobtails is recommended two to three times a day for about an hour. These dogs do not require active jogging and exercise, but will be happy with interesting play and exciting activity.

Bobtail – Video