Old English Sheepdog vs Shetland Sheepdog

Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health

Old English Sheepdog
Category
Shetland Sheepdog

📏 Physical Stats

60 - 100
Weight (lbs)
30
21
Height (inches)
13 - 16
10 - 12 years
Life Expectancy
12 - 14 years
Herding
Breed Group
Herding
England
Origin
United Kingdom
Driving sheep, cattle
Bred For
Sheep herding

⚡ Temperament & Traits

Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.

4/5
Energy Level
5/5
Better
2/5
Trainability
5/5
Better
5/5
Better
Good with Children
2/5
5/5
Better
Good with Other Dogs
3/5
2/5
Grooming Needs
2/5

💰 Cost of Ownership

Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.

Annual Cost
$3,500
Old English Sheepdog
vs
Annual Cost
$2,217
Shetland Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdog
Expense
Shetland Sheepdog
$3,500
Annual Cost
$2,217
Lower ✓
$4,220
First Year
$2,937
Lower ✓
$39,220
Lifetime Total
$29,541
Lower ✓
$780
Food (annual)
$552
Lower ✓
$735
Vet Care (annual)
$630
Lower ✓
$880
Grooming (annual)
$350
Lower ✓
$1,080
Insurance (annual)
$660
Lower ✓
$90
Insurance (monthly)
$55
Lower ✓

Over their lifetimes, a Shetland Sheepdog (~13 yrs) costs approximately $9,679 less than a Old English Sheepdog (~11 yrs) in total.

🏥 Health Considerations

Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.

🐾 Temperament

Old English Sheepdog

Sociable, Playful, Adaptable, Intelligent, Loving, Affectionate, Curious, Friendly, Gentle, Loyal, Brave

Shetland Sheepdog

Affectionate, Lively, Responsive, Alert, Loyal, Reserved, Playful, Gentle, Intelligent, Active, Strong