Dachshund vs Old English Sheepdog

Hound · Small vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 16–32 lbs for the Dachshund.
  • The Dachshund typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Dachshund has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Dachshund sheds less.
  • The Old English Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitDachshundOld English Sheepdog
Group
HoundHerding
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
GermanyEngland
Height (male)
8–9"22–24"
Height (female)
8–9"21–23"
Weight (male)
16–32 lbs60–100 lbs
Weight (female)
16–32 lbs60–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 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.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)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.
High (4/5)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 Dachshund

The Dachshund is a spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'. Originally from Germany, this small hound breed typically weighs 16–32 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, curious, 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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Dachshund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD (back problems)
  • Obesity
  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes

Old English Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness