Old English Sheepdog vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Which dog breed is right for you?

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

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Size
24–38 lbs, 14–16 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Brave Affectionate Reliable Intelligent

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.

About the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in 19th-century England's Staffordshire region from crosses between Bulldogs and various terriers, originally bred for bull-baiting and later as a compact, agile fighting dog — a history that belies its true nature as a devoted family companion. These muscular, athletic dogs stand 14 to 16 inches tall and weigh 24 to 38 pounds, packed with surprising strength and agility in a compact frame. Their smooth, short coat comes in red, fawn, white, black, blue, or brindle — with or without white markings.

Temperament & Personality

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are affectionate, courageous, and remarkably gentle with people — earning the nickname "nanny dog" in England for their extraordinary patience and devotion to children. They adore human companionship, are playful well into adulthood, and form intensely loyal bonds with their families. While they can be assertive with other dogs, proper socialization from puppyhood typically produces a confident, well-adjusted adult that gets along with everyone.

Pros

  • Exceptionally affectionate and gentle with children and family members
  • Compact, muscular build well-suited for smaller homes and apartments
  • Low-maintenance coat requiring only occasional brushing
  • Brave and loyal — a devoted companion that thrives on human interaction

Cons

  • Can be dog-aggressive without careful socialization and management
  • Breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many jurisdictions
  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, L-2 hydroxyglutaric aciduria, and cataracts
  • Strong and powerful — requires owners who can provide firm, consistent leadership

Staffies are among the most devoted family dogs in existence — find a Staffordshire Bull Terrier on Puplister and see for yourself.

Available for Adoption

3

Old English Sheepdogs

Browse

61

Staffordshire Bull Terriers

Browse

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Old English Sheepdog and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
The Old English Sheepdog is 60–100 lbs, 21–24 in sized while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is 24–38 lbs, 14–16 in sized. They differ in size (60–100 lbs, 21–24 in vs 24–38 lbs, 14–16 in), lifespan (10–12 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Old English Sheepdog or Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
Old English Sheepdog is generally good with kids. Staffordshire Bull Terrier is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Old English Sheepdog or Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
The Old English Sheepdog has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Dogs