Old English Sheepdog vs Rat Terrier
Herding · Large vs Terrier · Small
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
Rat TerrierSmall
A friendly, lovable, alert American farm terrier — President Roosevelt's favorite, born to clear vermin.
Weight: 10–25 lbsLifespan: 12–18 years
Quick take
- • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 10–25 lbs for the Rat Terrier.
- • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Rat Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Rat Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Old English Sheepdog | Rat Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Terrier |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | England | USA |
Height (male) | 22–24" | 10–18" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 10–18" |
Weight (male) | 60–100 lbs | 10–25 lbs |
Weight (female) | 60–100 lbs | 10–25 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 12–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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.
About the Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier is a friendly, lovable, alert American farm terrier — President Roosevelt's favorite, born to clear vermin. Originally from USA, this small terrier breed typically weighs 10–25 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lovable, alert.
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Old English Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Deafness
Rat Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues