Old English Sheepdog Colors & Coat Guide

All recognized Old English Sheepdog colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.

Old English Sheepdog Colors Overview

Old English Sheepdog coat colors are governed by a complex interplay of genetics. Puppies are born black and white, with the coat gradually graying as they mature. The graying gene progressively dilutes the black pigment over the first two to three years of life..

Understanding which colors are standard versus non-standard helps buyers make informed decisions. Color should never be the primary selection criterion—health and temperament come first.

Recognized Colors

Blue and White Standard

Gray and White Standard

Grizzle and White Standard

Blue Merle and White

Color & Price Impact

Standard colors	Normal pricing ($1000–$2000)
Rare/unusual colors	Premium pricing (+$600–$1000)

Coat Genetics

Old English Sheepdog coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.

DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. Puppies are born black and white, with the coat gradually graying as they mature. The graying gene progressively dilutes the black pigment over the first two to three years of life..

Rare vs Standard Colors

Rarity in Old English Sheepdog colors typically reflects recessive genetics rather than desirability. The breed offers 4 color varieties, with standard colors including Blue and White, Gray and White, Grizzle and White. While unusual colors may be visually striking, they sometimes correlate with health concerns or breeding shortcuts.

A reputable Old English Sheepdog breeder will never compromise health testing (for Hip Dysplasia and other conditions) to produce trendy colors. Be skeptical of breeders who market 'rare' colors at prices well above the $1000–$2000 standard range.

Do Old English Sheepdog Colors Change with Age?

Do not be surprised if your Old English Sheepdog puppy's color changes as they grow. Their double coat, long, shaggy, and profuse coat can look very different at 3 months versus 12 months. Colors like Blue and White, Gray and White may shift—sometimes dramatically—during this transition. Puppies are born black and white, with the coat gradually graying as they mature. The graying gene progressively dilutes the black pigment over the first two to three years of life..

Controversial Colors

Be cautious of Old English Sheepdog breeders who promote non-standard colors at prices above the typical $1000–$2000 range. These 'rare' colors may not be recognized by kennel clubs and can occasionally carry genetic health risks. A responsible Old English Sheepdog breeder from the Herding group focuses on health testing for Hip Dysplasia and temperament first.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Old English Sheepdog comes in Blue and White, Gray and White, Grizzle and White, Blue Merle and White. Puppies are born black and white, with the coat gradually graying as they mature. The graying gene progressively dilutes the black pigment over the first two to three years of life..

Among Old English Sheepdog colors, rarity reflects recessive genetics rather than quality. Puppies are born black and white, with the coat gradually graying as they mature. The graying gene progressively dilutes the black pigment over the first two to three years of life..

As a Old English Sheepdog puppy matures from puppyhood to adulthood (4–12 months), coat color can shift. Puppies are born black and white, with the coat gradually graying as they mature. The graying gene progressively dilutes the black pigment over the first two to three years of life.. Since the Old English Sheepdog comes in 4 recognized color varieties, the extent of change depends on the specific color genetics involved.

In most cases, coat color does not affect health. However, certain color genes (such as merle or extreme white) can carry health implications in some breeds. Puppies are born black and white, with the coat gradually graying as they mature. The graying gene progressively dilutes the black pigment over the first two to three years of life..

Popularity among Old English Sheepdog colors tends to track with the breed standard. The standard recognizes Blue and White, Gray and White, Grizzle and White as acceptable colors. With 4 color options, Old English Sheepdog buyers have good variety. Puppies are born black and white, with the coat gradually graying as they mature. The graying gene progressively dilutes the black pigment over the first two to three years of life..