Bearded Collie vs. Old English Sheepdog — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Published on February 1, 2024
Bearded Collies are smaller, agile herders with long, flowing coats, while Old English Sheepdogs are larger, have a shaggier coat, and are known for their bear-like shuffle.
Difference Between Bearded Collie and Old English Sheepdog
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Key Differences
Bearded Collies are energetic, intelligent dogs, originally bred in Scotland for herding. They are known for their long, flowing hair and agility. Old English Sheepdogs, in contrast, are larger and were bred in England for herding and driving cattle. They are characterized by their shaggy coat and distinctive bear-like gait. Both breeds are highly intelligent and excel in obedience, but the Bearded Collie is generally more active and requires more exercise.
Bearded Collies have a distinct expression due to their hair that falls over their eyes, and their coat colors vary from fawn to black. Old English Sheepdogs, however, are often recognized by their bobtail and have a double coat with colors ranging from grey to blue. Grooming is essential for both breeds to prevent matting, with Bearded Collies needing regular brushing and Old English Sheepdogs sometimes requiring professional grooming.
In temperament, Bearded Collies are known for their bouncy, enthusiastic nature and are great with children. Old English Sheepdogs are also family-friendly but tend to be more laid back and protective. While both breeds are herding dogs, the Bearded Collie is often more vocal and likes to stay busy, whereas the Old English Sheepdog can be more content with lounging around after their exercise needs are met.
Bearded Collies are adaptable and can live in various environments, thriving on human companionship and activity. Old English Sheepdogs are also adaptable but due to their size, they may be better suited for homes with more space. Both breeds make loyal, loving pets but require owners who can dedicate time to their training, exercise, and grooming needs.
Though both breeds share a herding lineage, Bearded Collies are often more sensitive and responsive to training, while Old English Sheepdogs may have a more independent streak. Both breeds, however, are known to be great companions and require a dedicated owner willing to invest in their care.
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Comparison Chart
Size
Medium-sized
Large-sized
Coat Length
Long, flowing hair
Dense, shaggy coat
Energy Level
High, very active
Moderate, can be laid back
Origin
Scotland
England
Temperament
Bouncy, enthusiastic, great with kids
Protective, laid back, family-friendly
Grooming Needs
High, regular brushing required
Very high, may require professional care
Exercise Needs
High, needs regular activity
Moderate, needs daily exercise
Trainability
Highly trainable, sensitive
Trainable but can be independent
Vocalness
Tends to be more vocal
Less vocal, but will bark when necessary
Adaptability
Adaptable to various environments
Better suited for homes with more space
Compare with Definitions
Bearded Collie
A breed requiring regular grooming and exercise, making an excellent companion for active families.
The Bearded Collie was the perfect fit for the family who loved hiking and outdoor activities.
Old English Sheepdog
What is the origin of the Old English Sheepdog?
The breed originated in England and was primarily used for herding sheep.
Bearded Collie
A medium-sized, agile herding dog known for its long, flowing coat and joyful disposition.
The Bearded Collie herded the sheep with remarkable agility and grace.
Old English Sheepdog
Do Old English Sheepdogs require a lot of grooming?
Yes, their fur needs regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their distinctive appearance.
Bearded Collie
Recognizable by its shaggy coat covering the eyes and its expressive, playful nature.
The children adored the playful antics of the family's Bearded Collie.
Old English Sheepdog
How does the Old English Sheepdog's coat look?
The Old English Sheepdog has a long, dense, and shaggy double coat that covers its body.
Bearded Collie
A breed originating from Scotland, valued for its intelligence and herding abilities.
Every morning, the Bearded Collie eagerly awaited its herding duties on the farm.
Old English Sheepdog
Are Old English Sheepdogs good family pets?
Yes, they are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them excellent family pets.
Bearded Collie
An energetic and friendly breed, often participating in dog sports and obedience training.
At the dog park, the Bearded Collie impressed everyone with its obedience skills.
Old English Sheepdog
A large breed with a distinctive shaggy coat, known for its bear-like shuffle and gentle nature.
The Old English Sheepdog guarded the house with a calm but vigilant presence.
Common Curiosities
What is a Bearded Collie?
A Bearded Collie is a medium-sized herding dog breed known for its shaggy coat and herding abilities.
What does the Bearded Collie's coat look like?
Bearded Collies have a long, shaggy, and straight coat that covers their body.
Where do Bearded Collies originate from?
Bearded Collies originated in Scotland and were originally bred for herding livestock.
Are Bearded Collies easy to train?
Bearded Collies are intelligent and trainable with proper consistency and positive reinforcement.
Are Bearded Collies good family pets?
Yes, Bearded Collies are known for their friendly and playful nature, making them excellent family dogs.
Are Bearded Collies suitable for active individuals or families?
Yes, they are an active breed that enjoys physical activities and outdoor play, making them a good fit for active lifestyles.
How does the Old English Sheepdog's coat differ from the Bearded Collie's?
Old English Sheepdogs have a long, shaggy, and curly double coat that covers their body.
Do Bearded Collies require extensive grooming?
Yes, their coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its appearance.
What are some common health concerns for Bearded Collies?
Bearded Collies can be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and eye problems.
Do Bearded Collies have herding instincts?
Yes, Bearded Collies have strong herding instincts and may try to herd family members or other animals.
Where did the Old English Sheepdog originate?
The breed originated in England and was primarily used for herding sheep.
Are Old English Sheepdogs good family pets?
Yes, they are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them great family pets.
Do Old English Sheepdogs require frequent grooming?
Yes, their fur needs regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their unique appearance.
What is the typical lifespan of a Bearded Collie?
Bearded Collies typically have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years with proper care.
What is an Old English Sheepdog?
An Old English Sheepdog is a large, shaggy dog breed known for its distinctive fur and herding heritage.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
