Breed comparison
English Setter vs Old English Sheepdog
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
5Affection with family5
4Good with young children5
4Good with other dogs3
4Openness to strangers3
4Playfulness4
3Energy level3
4Trainability4
4Mental stimulation needs4
4Adaptability4
3Watchdog / protective4
3Barking3
3Shedding3
3Coat grooming4
3Drooling3
The biggest differences
These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.
They score the same on affection with family, playfulness, energy level, trainability, mental stimulation needs, adaptability.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the English Setter if you have other dogs. Pick the Old English Sheepdog if you have young children, you want a more protective watchdog.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.