Bullmastiff vs Old English Sheepdog

Working · Large vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • Bullmastiff is the larger breed at 110–130 lbs (males) vs 60–100 lbs for the Old English Sheepdog.
  • The Old English Sheepdog typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Bullmastiff sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBullmastiffOld English Sheepdog
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
25–27"22–24"
Height (female)
24–26"21–23"
Weight (male)
110–130 lbs60–100 lbs
Weight (female)
100–120 lbs60–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–9 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)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 Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is an affectionate, loyal, brave gamekeeper's night dog — Mastiff-Bulldog cross bred to subdue poachers. Originally from England, this large working breed typically weighs 110–130 lbs and lives 7–9 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, brave.

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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Bullmastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Cancer
  • Heart problems

Old English Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness