Beagle vs Old English Sheepdog

Hound · Small vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 20–30 lbs for the Beagle.
  • The Beagle typically lives longer (10–15 years).
  • The Beagle has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Beagle sheds less.
  • The Old English Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBeagleOld English Sheepdog
Group
HoundHerding
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
13–15"22–24"
Height (female)
13–15"21–23"
Weight (male)
20–30 lbs60–100 lbs
Weight (female)
20–30 lbs60–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–15 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Beagle

The Beagle is a friendly, curious, merry scenthound — the world's most popular small hound, famous for its bay. Originally from England, this small hound breed typically weighs 20–30 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, curious, merry.

About the Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is an adaptable, smart, gentle drover from western England — the shaggy 'Dulux dog' with hidden eyes. Originally from England, this large herding breed typically weighs 60–100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, smart, gentle.

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Beagle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Obesity
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Ear infections

Old English Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness