Old English Sheepdog vs Saluki

Herding · Large vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 40–65 lbs for the Saluki.
  • The Saluki typically lives longer (10–17 years).
  • The Saluki has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Saluki sheds less.
  • The Old English Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitOld English SheepdogSaluki
Group
HerdingHound
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
EnglandEgypt
Height (male)
22–24"23–28"
Height (female)
21–23"23–28"
Weight (male)
60–100 lbs40–65 lbs
Weight (female)
60–100 lbs40–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years10–17 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Saluki

The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Old English Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness

Saluki health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity