Old English Sheepdog vs Samoyed
Herding · Large vs Working · Medium
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
SamoyedMedium
An adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer.
Weight: 45–65 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 45–65 lbs for the Samoyed.
- • The Samoyed typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Samoyed has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Old English Sheepdog sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Old English Sheepdog | Samoyed |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Working |
Size | Large | Medium |
Origin | England | Russia |
Height (male) | 22–24" | 21–23.5" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 19–21" |
Weight (male) | 60–100 lbs | 45–65 lbs |
Weight (female) | 60–100 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
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 Samoyed
The Samoyed is an adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer. Originally from Russia, this medium working breed typically weighs 45–65 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, friendly, gentle.
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Old English Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Deafness
Samoyed health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Diabetes
- • Eye disorders
- • Heart problems