American Pit Bull Terrier vs Old English Sheepdog

Which dog breed is right for you?

American Pit Bull Terrier

Size
30–65 lbs, 17–21 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Affectionate Energetic Confident Loyal

Old English Sheepdog

Size
60–100 lbs, 21–24 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Very High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Playful Adaptable Gentle Social

About the American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier traces its roots to 19th-century England, where Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create a dog combining strength with agility. Standing 17–21 inches tall and weighing 30–60 pounds, the APBT is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with a broad chest and well-defined musculature. Their short, glossy coat comes in virtually every color and pattern — including blue, red, brindle, and merle — and is exceptionally easy to maintain.

Temperament & Personality

Despite their often-misunderstood reputation, American Pit Bull Terriers are among the most people-oriented breeds — they are affectionate, eager to please, and frequently described as "nanny dogs" for their gentleness with children. They are intelligent, loyal, and enthusiastic about training when given positive reinforcement. However, some individuals may exhibit dog-selectivity, and responsible ownership includes understanding their terrier-driven tenacity.

Pros

  • Extremely affectionate and loyal — they bond deeply with every family member
  • Highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in obedience and nosework
  • Low grooming needs with their short, easy-care coat
  • Athletic and energetic — outstanding companion for active lifestyles

Cons

  • Subject to breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many areas
  • May develop dog-selectivity, requiring careful management around other dogs
  • Strong and powerful — not ideal for physically frail owners
  • Prone to skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and congenital heart disease

These loving, misunderstood dogs deserve wonderful homes — browse adoptable Pit Bull Terriers on Puplister today.

About the Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog — sometimes called the "Bobtail" — was developed in the early 19th century in England's western counties as a drover's dog for moving cattle and sheep to market. These large, athletic dogs stand 21 inches and up, typically weighing 60 to 100 pounds, with a distinctive rolling, bear-like gait. Their profuse, shaggy double coat in blue, gray, blue merle, or grizzle — always with white markings — is one of the most recognizable in the dog world.

Temperament & Personality

Old English Sheepdogs are gentle, adaptable, and blessed with a wonderful clownish sense of humor that makes them natural entertainers. They are devoted to their families, excellent with children — often herding them gently — and generally friendly toward other pets. Their intelligence and eagerness to engage make them responsive to training, though they do have an independent streak typical of herding breeds.

Pros

  • Gentle, playful nature makes them outstanding family companions
  • Adaptable to various living situations when exercise needs are met
  • Natural herding instinct provides built-in watchfulness over children
  • Social and friendly demeanor with both people and other animals

Cons

  • Extremely high grooming demands — coat requires thorough brushing 3 to 4 times weekly minimum
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, autoimmune thyroiditis, and exercise-induced collapse
  • Heavy shedding and tendency to track dirt, leaves, and moisture indoors
  • Can develop separation anxiety and become destructive when left alone

Charmed by the shaggy, lovable Bobtail? Browse Old English Sheepdog adoption listings on Puplister now.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a American Pit Bull Terrier and a Old English Sheepdog?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is 30–65 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the Old English Sheepdog is 60–100 lbs, 21–24 in sized. They differ in size (30–65 lbs, 17–21 in vs 60–100 lbs, 21–24 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 10–12 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, American Pit Bull Terrier or Old English Sheepdog?
American Pit Bull Terrier is generally good with kids. Old English Sheepdog is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, American Pit Bull Terrier or Old English Sheepdog?
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Old English Sheepdog has a lifespan of 10–12 years.

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