By Emily Parsons

Last updated at 13:36, Wednesday, 31 October 2012

The breeders of one of the most famous Old English Sheepdogs in the world are not surprised that the breed is in decline.

My pride and joy: Alex Little from Brampton with her five-year-old Old English Sheepdog Anna

David and Alex Little, of Capon Tree Road in Brampton, have owned the Dulux dogs since 1971 when Mr Little bought one as a surprise present for his wife.

Since then they have had numerous dogs – at one time owning five – and have gone on to become specialists in the field through breeding the pooch and showing them at competitions. Mrs Little is also an international judge, attending competitions all over the world.

The UK Kennel Club yesterday warned interest in the breed has waned so much it is close to being classified as “vulnerable”.

New figures show there were just 316 puppy registrations for the breed so far this year – a breed is deemed “vulnerable” if registrations drop below 300.

Mr Little, 65, said: “That first dog we had changed our lives; they are beautiful dogs.

“As exhibitors we are proud to say we bred the top winning dog in the country in its breed at Crufts. In fact, Bobbington Latin Lover – pet name Wyllie – won the most ‘best in breed’ trophies ever.

“He’s known all over the world – he’s dead now but his semen is frozen in America and has produced a litter over there.”

As a breed, Mr Little, an architect, says they are perfect family dogs.

“You can roll over on the floor and they will roll over with you,” he enthused. “They are absolutely adorable to be with.”

His wife is slightly more pragmatic about the shaggy creatures though.

“It is not an easy dog to look after,” Mrs Little, 61, explained. “It is foolhardy for anyone to intimate they are.

“They are great dogs, wonderful companions, very people orientated, easy to train and with wonderful temperaments but they require an awful lot of grooming.”

In fact, when speaking to the News & Star, Mrs Little had just returned from a walk with five-year-old Old English Sheepdog Anna.

“She had to have her feet in the bucket,” Mrs Little laughed. “And then towelled off and blow-dried and brushed.”

It is this extra effort – coupled with their size and associated appetite – that she believes is putting people off buying them.

Mr Little added: “People are going for small dogs you can pick up and put in your handbag.

First published at 13:26, Wednesday, 31 October 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk