Bulldog vs Old English Sheepdog

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 50 lbs for the Bulldog.
  • The Old English Sheepdog typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Old English Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bulldog sheds less.
  • The Old English Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBulldogOld English Sheepdog
Group
Non-SportingHerding
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
14–15"22–24"
Height (female)
14–15"21–23"
Weight (male)
50 lbs60–100 lbs
Weight (female)
40 lbs60–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
8–10 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)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.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)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 Bulldog

The Bulldog is a calm, courageous, friendly companion — the iconic loose-skinned English mascot breed. Originally from England, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 50 lbs and lives 8–10 years. Breeders describe them as calm, courageous, friendly.

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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Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin fold dermatitis
  • Heart issues

Old English Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness