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Dulux dog The Old English Sheepdog is the brand mascot for Dulux paint. The dog was first introduced in Australian advertising campaigns in the 1960s. Since then they have been a constant and highly popular feature of Dulux television and print adverts in both Australia and the UK. So much so, that people in those markets may refer colloquially to the breed as a "Dulux dog" rather than a Sheepdog. [8] Over the years, different dogs have appeared in the adverts. However, they all look very similar, partially as a result of most of them being selected from a closely related line of pedigree dogs. The first Dulux dog was Shepton Dash, who held the role for eight years. His successor, Fernville Lord Digby, was the most famous Dulux dog and also made his owner, Cynthia Harrison, famous. When filming commercials, Digby was treated like a star, being driven to the studio in a chauffeur driven car. Barbara Woodhouse was employed to train Digby and his three stunt doubles, who were used whenever specific tricks or actions needed to be filmed. [9] Apart from Dash, all the Dulux dogs have been breed champions. Five of them have won 'Best of Show' prizes. The most recent Dulux Dog is called Don and he is Crufts Qualified.

Males generally weigh 70 to 100 pounds (45 kg); females, 60 to 80 pounds. They stand around 22 inches at the withers, and their long coats can be any shade of gray, grizzle, blue, or blue merle, with optional white markings. The undercoat is water resistant.[1] In countries where this practice is legal, the OES's tail is usually cut off at or below the first joint as puppies. The procedure, known as docking or "bobbing" the tail produces the panda-like rear end. Puppies are born with jet black and white fur further likening them to the giant panda. It is only after the puppy coat has been shed that the more common gray or silver shaggy hair appears. A nickname for the OES is "bobtail." Undocked Old English Sheepdogs are becoming a more common sight as some countries have now banned docking. The Kennel Club (of Great Britain) does not express a preference for (legally) docked or un-docked animals and either can be shown.[2] The American Kennel Club breed regulations require showing only dogs with bobbed tails.[1] When ambling, the Old English Sheepdog has a rolling bear-like gait. However the breed is surprisingly agile when running.[2]

Like all herding breeds, Old English Sheepdogs require plenty of exercise, both mental and physical. The Old English Sheepdog is relatively hardy, but cannot be kept outside or left without sufficient company.[4] The Old English Sheepdog's long coat requires a thorough brushing at least once weekly, which may take anything from one hour to three.[4] The preferred method involves starting from the base of the hairs to keep the thick undercoat hair mat- and tangle-free. The brushing should be started at a very young age to get the dog used to it. The grooming requirements of the breed means first time dog owners should consider a dog that is easier to maintain. Many people trim their dogs' coats to a more manageable style. However, show dogs must retain their natural coat, or they will be disqualified.[2] A hairband is often used to keep show dogs' fur out of their eyes. Some people have saved their Sheepdog's hair from grooming and have spun it into yarn.[4]

The Old English Sheepdog has a life expectancy of around 12 to 14 years. Diseases common in the breed include hip dysplasia[4], cataracts, glaucoma, entropion, thyroid problems, deafness, diabetes, HD, PRA, allergies and skin problems. Heatstroke is also a potential problem in full coated dogs.[3] Cancer is a major cause of death amongst Old English Sheepdogs.[5] When choosing an Old English Sheepdog puppy, it is particularly important to determine if the dog's family has a history of hip dysplasia, eye problems or deafness. The Old English Sheepdog Club of America has a website dedicated to the improvement of the breed's genetic health: http://www.oeshealth.org/

The Old English Sheepdog has an uncertain history. Progenitors of the breed might include the Scottish Bearded Collie or the Russian Owtchar. The Old English Sheepdog probably originated in the Southwest Counties of England, early in the 19th century. It is mentioned as a "drover's dog", herding sheep and cattle. The breed's tail might have been docked in order for the dogs to be regarded as working dogs and thus be exempt from taxes. [6] [7]

This breed's temperament can be described as intelligent, social, and adaptable. Old English Sheepdogs are often said to have a "clownish" energy. [1] The breed generally gets along well with older children, other dogs, other pets, and visitors, but may try to herd people. The dog's large size means it may accidentally knock over young children or play a little rough. [3]