Old English Sheepdog vs English Bulldog
Discover the differences between Old English Sheepdog and English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Old English Sheepdog
A lovable, shaggy companion known for playful energy and gentle loyalty. Brings warmth and joy to family life with a distinctive bobtail and endearing nature.
English Bulldog
Stocky, courageous, and affectionate, this breed charms with its wrinkled face and calm nature. Loyal and gentle, it thrives as a loving family companion.
Quick comparison
Large
32–45 kg
Double coat, profuse
10–12 years
27–36 kg
Moderately active
Medium
23–25 kg
Short, smooth
8–10 years
18–23 kg
Low activity needs
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Old English Sheepdog
Warm, welcoming, and enjoys family interaction
Quick learner, responds well to training
Needs regular exercise and mental stimulation
Loves games and playful with children
Adjusts well to various living conditions
English Bulldog
Affectionate and gentle with family and children
Learns basic commands with some patience
Prefers lounging over vigorous physical activity
Enjoys play but tires fairly quickly
Adjusts well to most living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Old English Sheepdog
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
English Bulldog
Brachycephalic syndrome, skin fold infections
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Old English Sheepdog
Moderately challenging
Grooming and training needs can overwhelm new owners
Not ideal
Needs space and regular exercise, often struggles in small apartments
Highly suitable
Thrives with active owners who provide daily exercise and mental stimulation
Great choice
Gentle, patient, and playful with children, making them good family dogs
Good fit
Usually sociable with other pets if properly introduced and socialized
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone and may develop separation issues
English Bulldog
Good option
Easygoing, low-maintenance nature suits owners with limited dog experience
Excellent fit
Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor work well in small living spaces
Not ideal
Low stamina and breathing issues make them unsuited for high-activity lifestyles
Very suitable
Gentle, patient, and tolerant with young children when properly socialized
Usually compatible
Generally sociable but may need guidance with other pets, especially dogs
Not recommended
They struggle with long periods alone and are prone to separation anxiety
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Old English Sheepdog
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Generally good with children
- Strong herding instincts and intelligence
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Distinctive, attractive shaggy appearance
English Bulldog
- Affectionate with family members
- Generally good with children
- Low exercise requirements
- Minimal grooming needs
- Adaptable to apartment living
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Old English Sheepdog
- High grooming and coat maintenance needs
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- May herd people or other pets
- Needs regular, vigorous daily exercise
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
English Bulldog
- Prone to respiratory problems
- High risk of overheating
- Susceptible to skin infections
- Can be stubborn during training
- Tends to drool frequently
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience