The Deluxe Dulux Dog!
We’ve all seen the paint ad with the beautiful dog with long flowing locks. These stunning fluffballs are Old English Sheepdogs and they are some of the sweetest, most companionable dogs you’ll ever meet!
Despite the fluffy, L’Oréal model-worthy type being the most well known, there are actually three breeds of OES (as they are affectionately known), the Rough, the Smooth and the Welsh although there is not a huge amount of difference in their coats and this is more to do with their selective breeding than anything else.
The breed originated in England in the 19th century and were bred as a herding dog, hence their native (and now disused) names- Shepherd Dogs and Bob-Tailed Sheepdogs (or Bobs) due to the fact their tails were originally docked.
Their large size, huge paws and somewhat intimidating “bear-like” gait meant that any predators targeting livestock would be sent scurrying!
They became very favoured as show dogs, their owners using their beautiful coats to exhibit back combing and elaborate grooming techniques including powdering their hair and plaiting it. Show dogs must retain their natural coat, it must not be clipped or shaved.
Old English Sheepdogs also became extremely popular in the 60’s when Dulux Paints chose to use one as their mascot for their advertising campaign, which proved so successful that to this day, most people refer to this breed as “the Dulux Dog!” (The power of advertising!)
The very first Dulux dog was called Dash, but it is his successor Digby that proved so famous (even getting his own chauffeur to drive him to and from set!) he got his own film in the 70’s- Digby, The Biggest Dog In The World!
Old English Sheepdogs are highly intelligent, and have retained their natural herding ability. They are fiercely loyal to their humans and will use their large size and big heads to block off any perceived threat to their family, although they are actually very gentle and placid. They are known for being extra cautious and gentle around children, and love to play.
In the sheepdog community, they are sometimes affectionately nicknamed “Eeyores” due to their floppy ears and somewhat long faces.
Whether you have an “Eeyore”, or a “Bear” we just love these gentle giants with their soulful eyes and gentle smiles!
Written by Peigí Conneff
