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Old English Sheepdog — Grooming Guide
How Often to Groom
- Brushing: Daily (long coat) or 3–4 times per week (shorter trims)
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
- Face cleaning: Daily
About the Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs have a dense, fluffy double coat that mats extremely easily. Their coat traps debris, moisture, and tangles, especially behind the ears, in the armpits, and around the rear. They require consistent brushing and careful drying to stay mat‑free and comfortable.
Before You Start
Your OES Bathing Package includes everything needed to bathe this breed safely, including a Shampoo Dilution Bottle and a Moisturizing Shampoo for thick coats. Your Grooming Package includes the tools needed for brushing, de‑matting, drying, and maintaining their heavy coat.
Old English Sheepdog Bathing Package
Shop the recommended bathing package here:
Moisturizing Bathing Package
- Moisturizing Shampoo
- Shampoo Dilution Bottle
- Shammy Towel
- Microfiber Towel
Old English Sheepdog Grooming Package
Shop the recommended grooming package here:
Moisturizing Grooming Package
- Slicker Brush
- Pin Brush
- Metal Comb
- Dematting Comb
- Thinning Shears
- Conditioning Spray (trial size)
Old English Sheepdog Care Package
Shop the full care package here:
Care Package
- Ear Cleaner
- Eye Wipes
- Paw Balm
- Nail Clippers
Additional Grooming Tools
- High‑Velocity Dryer (HV Dryer)
- Grooming Arm
- Extra Shammy Towel
- Extra Microfiber Towel
Step‑By‑Step Grooming Guide
1. Brush the Coat
Start with a slicker brush to remove tangles.
Follow with a pin brush to work through the dense coat.
Use a metal comb to check for hidden mats behind the ears, in the armpits, and around the rear.
2. Clean the Face
Use eye wipes daily to remove debris and prevent staining.
OES coats around the eyes get dirty quickly.
3. Clean the Ears
Use ear cleaner and cotton to wipe the outer ear weekly.
4. Trim the Nails
Trim every 2–3 weeks.
Their heavy coat can hide long nails — check often.
5. Bathe the Old English Sheepdog
Bathe every 4–6 weeks using diluted moisturizing shampoo.
Rinse thoroughly — their dense coat holds soap easily.
6. Dry the Coat
Use a shammy towel, then a microfiber towel.
Finish with an HV dryer while brushing to prevent matting.
7. Tidy the Feet, Face & Rear
Use thinning shears to neaten the feet, bangs, and sanitary areas.
Avoid blunt cuts — OES coats should look soft and natural.
8. Apply Leave‑In Conditioner
Work a small amount through the coat to reduce dryness, prevent tangles, and add shine.
Coat Notes
Old English Sheepdogs are one of the highest‑maintenance breeds in grooming. Daily brushing is essential for long coats, and even shorter trims require regular upkeep.
Final Thoughts
With consistent grooming, Old English Sheepdogs stay fluffy, clean, and mat‑free. A regular routine makes this heavy‑coated breed much easier to manage.
But these tools pay for themselves faster than you think.
A typical groom costs $70–$120. If you go every 4–6 weeks, the tools usually pay for themselves in 3–5 grooms.
But the money isn't even the biggest part.
- You know exactly how your dog is being treated.
- No contamination from other dogs.
- No chance of your dog being drugged without your knowledge.
- No rough handling behind closed doors.
- No stress from loud salons or unfamiliar animals.
- Your dog stays in the place they feel safest — home.
Your dog trusts you more than anyone. Grooming them yourself honors that trust.
FAQ
How often should an Old English Sheepdog be groomed?
Daily brushing for long coats; 3–4 times per week for shorter trims.
Should you shave an Old English Sheepdog?
No. Their coat protects their skin and should be trimmed, not shaved.
How do you prevent matting?
Daily brushing, conditioning spray, and HV drying.
How often should you bathe them?
Every 4–6 weeks.
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