Old English Sheepdog vs Shih Tzu
Herding · Large vs Toy · 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
Shih TzuSmall
An affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you.
Weight: 9–16 lbsLifespan: 10–18 years
Quick take
- • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The Old English Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Shih Tzu sheds less.
- • The Old English Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Old English Sheepdog | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Toy |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | England | Tibet |
Height (male) | 22–24" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 60–100 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 60–100 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | 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) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
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 Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you. Originally from Tibet, this small toy breed typically weighs 9–16 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, outgoing.
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Old English Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Deafness
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues