If you’ve been counting sheep maybe you could be counting canines instead?
We’ve already covered dogs that look like wolves, now it seems fitting to look at the dogs in sheep’s clothing.
There are a few particular breeds that bear a strong resemblance. But it all comes down to the white, black, or brown wooly coat (which there are 9 dogs that certainly fit the part).
Another large factor is grooming and haircut styles.
If your goal is to resemble a sheep; a thick and curly hairstyle, with long legs, is what you should aim for.
Here’s 9 dogs that look like lambs or sheep:
1. Bedlington Terrier
We’ll start with the most sheep-like of them all; the Bedlington Terrier.
Although they wear lamb’s clothing, these dogs are bold and make excellent watch dogs.
Being part of the Terrier family also means they have a very high prey drive, and any little critter they cross paths with will cause them to bark and give chase.
Therefore, a little daily exercise goes a long way with the Bedlington. Trust me, the last thing you want is a bored Terrier.
2. Bichon Frise
If you are looking for a dog and have never owned one before, then the Bichon Frise is the ideal companion.
They’re known for their cheerful nature (and perhaps a little mischief). This is especially true when they’re the center of attention.
The Bichon Frise are also known for their deep affection. However, these cute little dogs face separation anxiety if they are left alone for any extended period.
They’re always up for a little fun and adventure, and loves nothing more than to end the day hanging out with their loved ones. They do require consistent brushing and grooming, but thankfully these dogs don’t shed.
3. Coton De Tulear
In a lot of ways the Coton De Tulear is similar to the Bichon Frise. They’re great family pets, have a fun loving attitude, but the Coton is a little more chill.
While the Bichon might want to run and play, the Coton would rather cozy up on the couch for a nap.
That doesn’t mean exercise is completely off the table, however. The Coton needs daily walks and play time with their owner.
4. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel has arguably one of the most sheep-like coats on this list.
And, just like a sheep, they’re thick with lush curls that come with a list of grooming demands. You’ll need to keep their coat brushed out and visit your groomer regularly.
In addition to its distinctive look, Water Spaniels are renowned for their fun-loving nature and the ability to entertain. They adapt well to family life and are extremely good with kids.
As the name suggests, the breed originated from Ireland and was used initially to hunt and retrieve in the water. As you might expect, this is a high energy canine that loves having a job.
5. Maltese
Maltese can look quite different depending on their specific hair style. They don’t have curly hair, so in order to achieve the “lamb look” we’ll let the coat grow to medium length.
The Maltese are little fluff balls of excitement. They’re always up for a good time and can be found buzzing around your feet with curiosity.
While they’re incredibly intelligent, they’re also impatient with other dogs and children. So this may not be the ideal family pet.
6. poodle (white)
There is actually a poodle haircut style called the “Lamb” style. And unsurprisingly, it’s meant to make your dog look look like a cute little sheep.
The idea is to keep the legs thicker and fuller with a shorter head.
Poodles are at the top of their class, being ranked as one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are eager to please their owners, and with all those brains, it makes them very keen to training.
Being so bright and full of energy your Poodle may find itself easily bored. Which could lead to bad behaviors. You can curb trouble making with daily mental and physical exercise.
7. Bolognese
While they share some visual similarities their relatives; the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Havanese, the Bolognese is a slightly more uncommon sight.
They’re considered somewhat rare in North America.
These are intelligent problem-solvers, but want nothing more than to be with their owner. Companionship is their number one priority, and they have no shortage of love and affection.
But with all that attachment, these dogs can have separation anxiety and generate a lot of noise when left alone for too long.
8. Pumi
Of course things wouldn’t be the same without the black sheep in the family.
Ironically, the Pumi were originally bred to be sheepdogs. They’re instinctively renowned for gathering, driving and keeping stock under control with great skill and intelligence.
This is a working breed, and they absolutely love having a daily job. That means they’ll need some daily exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise they’ll get bored and destructive.
Due to its instinct, the Pumi can have a behavioral problem; it is pervasive for them to bark needlessly and be vocal.
However, proper training and socialization during their young days can curb some of these bad behaviors.
9. Barbet
And of course, we can’t forget the brown sheep.
Fun loving and incredibly sharp, the Barbet is a renowned hunting breed known for retrieving waterfowl. There is a mention of the dog in ancient folklore, and according to historians, these dogs date back to the 8th century.
This is a medium sized breed that is full of love and silliness. Their friendliness combined with intellect means they absolutely excel in training and agility. Their aim is to please their owners.
The Barbet are a working breed, and they need an outlet or a “job” to keep them busy. Otherwise this dog tends to get bored and destructive.
We’ve covered wolves and sheep, now go see dogs that look like teddy bears
