Brittany vs Old English Sheepdog

Sporting · Medium vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 30–40 lbs for the Brittany.
  • The Brittany typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Brittany has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Brittany sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBrittanyOld English Sheepdog
Group
SportingHerding
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
FranceEngland
Height (male)
17.5–20.5"22–24"
Height (female)
17.5–20.5"21–23"
Weight (male)
30–40 lbs60–100 lbs
Weight (female)
30–40 lbs60–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 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.
Very High (5/5)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.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Brittany

The Brittany is a bright, fun-loving, upbeat pointer-spaniel hybrid — energetic, athletic gundog and lively companion. Originally from France, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 30–40 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, upbeat.

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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Brittany health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism

Old English Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness