Boxer vs Old English Sheepdog

Working · Large vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 65–80 lbs for the Boxer.
  • The Boxer has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Boxer sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBoxerOld English Sheepdog
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
GermanyEngland
Height (male)
23–25"22–24"
Height (female)
21.5–23.5"21–23"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs60–100 lbs
Weight (female)
50–65 lbs60–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Boxer

The Boxer is a bright, fun-loving, active working dog — eternally puppyish, devoted to family, wary of strangers. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, active.

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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Boxer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Heart conditions
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat

Old English Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness