Mastiff vs Old English Sheepdog
Working · Giant vs Herding · Large
MastiffGiant
A courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs.
Weight: 160–230 lbsLifespan: 6–10 years
Old English SheepdogLarge
An adaptable, smart, gentle drover from western England — the shaggy 'Dulux dog' with hidden eyes.
Weight: 60–100 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Quick take
- • Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 60–100 lbs for the Old English Sheepdog.
- • The Old English Sheepdog typically lives longer (10–12 years).
- • The Old English Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Mastiff sheds less.
- • The Old English Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Mastiff | Old English Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Herding |
Size | Giant | Large |
Origin | England | England |
Height (male) | 30" | 22–24" |
Height (female) | 27.5" | 21–23" |
Weight (male) | 160–230 lbs | 60–100 lbs |
Weight (female) | 120–170 lbs | 60–100 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 6–10 years | 10–12 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | 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 | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Mastiff
The Mastiff is a courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs. Originally from England, this giant working breed typically weighs 160–230 lbs and lives 6–10 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, good-natured.
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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Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer
Old English Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Deafness