Old English Sheepdog vs Scottish 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
Scottish TerrierSmall
An independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'.
Weight: 19–22 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 19–22 lbs for the Scottish Terrier.
- • The Scottish Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Scottish Terrier sheds less.
- • The Old English Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Old English Sheepdog | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Terrier |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | England | Scotland |
Height (male) | 22–24" | 10" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 10" |
Weight (male) | 60–100 lbs | 19–22 lbs |
Weight (female) | 60–100 lbs | 18–21 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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 Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.
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Old English Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Deafness
Scottish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Scotty cramp
- • Von Willebrand's disease
- • Bladder cancer