| The Old English Sheepdog has been in existence
in Britain for centuries. It is believed to have been
developed through the crossing of the Briard with
the Russian Owtcharka, which in turn is related
to the Hungarian sheepdogs. In the past it was used
as a drovers dog and for defending flocks of sheep.
In the early 18th century in Britain, drovers dogs were
exempt from taxes, and their tails were docked as a
means of identification, hence its nickname Bobtail.
The Old English Sheepdog is a kindly dog that
gets on well with people, children, and other animals.
However, it is fairly large, heavy, and exuberant,
and must be given sufficient space and be adequately
exercised. Bobtails are popular show dogs but require
many hours of grooming.
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