Looking into getting a OES pup in a year or so...
To be honest, I have always loved the breed, but never met one in person. I don't really know what size they will grow to be, what they are like around other animals(goats, sheep, dogs, cats,and horses) or what they would be like around kids... I really want one, and will probably adjust my life style to get one, but heres my big question... Would I seem totaly crazy running one in Agility? Thanks, Shay |
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| Many OES do agility competitions. I know we have one member who competes with his two... I can't rememebr off the top of my head, it might be George though...
Like all dogs, it depends on the individual, but most herding breeds are a good bet for agility dogs. Check out the official breed standard on the akc or OESCA website for more info on sizes- they can range quite a bit from a petite female at 50-60 lbs to a big hulking boy at close to 100lbs. I'd highly recommend going to a local dog show in person to get a feel for what an adult, full coated sheepie looks like in person. They are a herding dog- so they will try to move stock animals- with varying degrees of success depending on the dog. Some try to herd anything that moves, some could care less. But most OES see something on the run, and herding instinct kicks into place. As for at home pets- most like to chase kitties (herding instincts again) but at the end, a good wet slobber is the likely outcome if kitty isn't agile enough. My kitty girls have learned if they just stay in one spot, Pip won't chase them, but he does like to do his Odie impression, and give them kisses. Most OES are great around kids, especially if they're brought up around them. Just remember that they tend to be boisterous players, and will knock down little ones on occasion. The best thing you can do is read, read, read as much as you can, ask questions, then get out and meet some OES in your area- either by going to shows, hooking up with breeders, or maybe crashing a sheepie picnic or 2 in your area! |
Lots of people do compete in agility with their OES. In fact, the National Speciality is this week in Frankenmuth (sp?) MI and there will be agility trials there. If you check out the oesca website, there will probably be photos.  |
| Where in Canada are you located? We have a few Canadian members that would probably love to let you meet their dogs and a few of us live right over the Windsor/Detroit border in the U.S. if you'd like to meet one of our OES. |
| Hey, thanks so much for the help, I have seen videos of OES's going Agility, but I haven't seen one in person because around here they aren't really a common breed...
I live in New Brunswick Canada... So I am close to Maine and would probably be able to go as far as Bangor to meet someone... When we buy a pup we will probably have to have him/her(Probably a him!) flown over here.... Thanks again! |
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