Bearded Collie
Cheerful, bouncy and covered in a long coat, the Bearded Collie is a fun-loving Scottish herding dog, ideal for active families.
Bearded Collie vs Old English Sheepdog
Side by side
| Trait | Bearded Collie | Old English Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Sheepdogs and cattle dogs | Sheepdogs and cattle dogs |
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 18–27 kg | 27–45 kg |
| Height at withers | 51–56 cm | 56–64 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–14 years | 10–12 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Heavier: Old English Sheepdog (about 36 kg vs 22.5 kg on average)
- Taller: Old English Sheepdog (about 60 cm vs 53.5 cm on average)
- Longer life expectancy: Bearded Collie (about 13 years vs 11 years on average)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Bearded Collie is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Bearded Collie is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Bearded Collie is the better fitBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Old English Sheepdog
A big grey-and-white teddy bear, the Old English Sheepdog is a jolly, patient family dog, but very poorly suited to strong heat.