Old English Sheepdog vs Rottweiler
Herding · Large vs Working · Large
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
RottweilerLarge
A loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training.
Weight: 95–135 lbsLifespan: 9–10 years
Quick take
- • Rottweiler is the larger breed at 95–135 lbs (males) vs 60–100 lbs for the Old English Sheepdog.
- • The Old English Sheepdog typically lives longer (10–12 years).
- • The Rottweiler has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Rottweiler sheds less.
- • The Rottweiler is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Old English Sheepdog | Rottweiler |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Working |
Size | Large | Large |
Origin | England | Germany |
Height (male) | 22–24" | 24–27" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 22–25" |
Weight (male) | 60–100 lbs | 95–135 lbs |
Weight (female) | 60–100 lbs | 80–100 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 9–10 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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 Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 95–135 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, loving, confident guardian.
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Old English Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Deafness
Rottweiler health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Cancer
- • Bloat