Australian Cattle Dog

Height: 17 to 20 inches at shoulder.

Weight: 30 to 50 pounds

Coat: short and straight

Life span: 12 to 15 years

The Australian Cattle Dog is also highly devoted to his owner and family. He usually attaches himself closely to one person and bonds less closely with others. He's often called a "Velcro" dog because he attaches so firmly; he likes to be in close physical contact with his chosen person all the time.He thrives on having a job to do and on being part of all family activities. He is loyal and protective of his family, though wary of outsiders. Besides herding work, the Australian Cattle dog does well at canine sports, including agility, obedience, rally, flyball, and flying disc competitions.

Read more...

Old English Sheepdog

Height: 21 inches at shoulder and up

Weight: males are 80 to 100 pounds; females are 60 to 85 pounds

Coat: thick and shaggy

Life span: 10 to 12 years or more




The Old English Sheepdog is a large, athletic dog with an unmistakable shaggy coat. The Old English Sheepdog was historically a drover, helping farmers drive cattle and sheep to the market. Today, the good-natured Old English Sheepdog enjoys the comfort of home life and still competes in conformation, obedience, agility, and herding trials. He's an adaptable, intelligent dog with an easygoing disposition.

The wonderfully shaggy Old English Sheepdog is a favorite in children's television shows and movies, where he's usually an affable, if sometimes bumbling, character. But, hair and Hollywood glitz aside, who is the OES?

In reality, the OES--nicknamed "Bobtail" because of his docked tail (traditionally kept short to identify him as a drover)--is an easygoing, fun-loving, intelligent dog.

Read more...