Old English Sheepdog health
Health Guide Based on 19 real Old English Sheepdog owners

Old English Sheepdog Health Problems & Prevention

Common health issues, symptoms to watch for, and how to keep your Old English Sheepdog healthy.

Life Expectancy
10-12 years

Common Old English Sheepdog Health Problems

Based on veterinary research and breed health studies

Hip Dysplasia18.5% prevalence prevalence

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, causing the ball and socket to grind instead of sliding smoothly.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Limping or bunny-hopping gait
  • Difficulty rising or jumping
  • Reduced activity or reluctance to exercise
  • Loss of muscle mass in hind legs

Prevention Tips

  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Avoid over-exercising puppies
  • Use joint supplements (glucosamine)
  • Choose reputable breeders with hip-tested parents
MDR1 Drug Sensitivity5-16% prevalence prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Old English Sheepdogs based on owner reports.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Behavioral changes
  • Physical discomfort
  • Changes in appetite or activity

Prevention Tips

  • Regular vet checkups
  • Maintain healthy lifestyle
  • Early detection through monitoring
Primary Ciliary DyskinesiaPCD prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Old English Sheepdogs based on owner reports.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Behavioral changes
  • Physical discomfort
  • Changes in appetite or activity

Prevention Tips

  • Regular vet checkups
  • Maintain healthy lifestyle
  • Early detection through monitoring
Hereditary Cataracts prevalence

Clouding of the eye lens causing vision impairment, can be hereditary or develop with age or diabetes.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Cloudy or bluish eyes
  • Bumping into objects
  • Hesitancy in dim light
  • Eye inflammation

Prevention Tips

  • Annual eye exams
  • Protect eyes from UV
  • Manage diabetes if present
  • Antioxidant supplements
Hypothyroidism prevalence

Underactive thyroid gland leading to metabolic slowdown, common in middle-aged dogs.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Weight gain despite normal diet
  • Lethargy
  • Cold intolerance
  • Skin and coat problems

Prevention Tips

  • Regular blood screening
  • Thyroid checks at annual exam
  • Iodine-balanced diet
  • Early treatment prevents progression

Recommended Genetic Tests

Ask breeders for these health clearances before purchasing a puppy

OFA/PennHIP certificates (Hip Dysplasia)
DNA test for MDR1
DNA test for PCD
Annual CAER ophthalmologist exams (Hereditary Cataracts)
Thyroid panel (Hypothyroidism)
Reputable breeders should provide documentation for all genetic tests. Never purchase a puppy without seeing health clearances.

Old English Sheepdogs may be prone to:

General Health Concerns

Regular vet visits help catch issues early

Old English Sheepdog Health Timeline

What to focus on at each life stage to keep your Old English Sheepdog healthy.

Puppy

0-1 year

  • Complete vaccination series
  • Spay/neuter discussion with vet
  • Socialization and training foundation
  • Deworming and parasite prevention
  • Establish dental care routine
Vet Visits:

Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks, then at 6 and 12 months

Adult

1-7 years

  • Annual wellness exams and vaccinations
  • Dental cleaning as needed
  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Watch for early signs of breed-specific conditions
  • Regular heartworm and flea prevention
Vet Visits:

Annually, more often if concerns arise

Senior

7+ years

  • Bi-annual wellness exams
  • Blood work and organ function screening
  • Joint supplements and pain management
  • Adjust diet for senior needs
  • Watch for common age-related conditions in Old English Sheepdogs
Vet Visits:

Every 6 months, with comprehensive bloodwork annually

Common Infections in Old English Sheepdogs

Infections reported by Old English Sheepdog owners. Most are treatable with prompt veterinary care.

Fleas

5.3%

1 of 2 dogs

Giardia

5.3%

1 of 2 dogs

Old English Sheepdog Allergies

Allergy data from 5 Old English Sheepdog owners. Allergies can develop at any age.

No food allergies reported for this breed.

Signs Your Old English Sheepdog May Have Food Allergies

  • Chronic ear infections
  • Itchy skin (especially paws, ears, rear end)
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Excessive gas

When to see a vet: If symptoms persist for more than a few days or are causing significant discomfort.

Questions to Ask Your Vet About Old English Sheepdogs

1

What breed-specific health screenings do you recommend?

2

Are there any genetic tests available for common Old English Sheepdog conditions?

3

What's the ideal weight range for my Old English Sheepdog?

4

When should we start joint supplements or senior care?

5

What early warning signs should I watch for based on the breed's health profile?

6

Do you recommend pet insurance for Old English Sheepdogs?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common health issues in Old English Sheepdogs?
Old English Sheepdogs are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they may be prone to certain genetic conditions. Regular vet checkups are recommended for early detection.
How long do Old English Sheepdogs typically live?
Old English Sheepdogs have an average lifespan of 10-12 years. Factors that can extend lifespan include: maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, quality nutrition, preventive healthcare, and addressing breed-specific health concerns early.
Are Old English Sheepdogs prone to allergies?
Based on our community data from 5 Old English Sheepdogs, allergies are reported by owners. Common triggers include various foods and Chicken, Beef. Symptoms include itching, ear infections, and digestive issues.
How often should I take my Old English Sheepdog to the vet?
Puppies: Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old for vaccinations. Adults (1-8 years): Annual wellness exams. Seniors (8+ years): Every 6 months with bloodwork. Old English Sheepdogs with known health conditions may need more frequent visits.
Should I get pet insurance for my Old English Sheepdog?
Pet insurance is recommended for all breeds as emergency vet care can cost thousands of dollars. The younger you insure your Old English Sheepdog, the better the rates and coverage options.

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