Old English Sheepdog vs Smooth Fox Terrier

Herding · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Old English Sheepdog is the larger breed at 60–100 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitOld English SheepdogSmooth Fox Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
22–24"15"
Height (female)
21–23"15"
Weight (male)
60–100 lbs17–19 lbs
Weight (female)
60–100 lbs15–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.

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Old English Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Deafness

Smooth Fox Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness