Breed comparison
Leonberger 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
5Good with young children5
3Good with other dogs3
5Openness to strangers3
3Playfulness4
3Energy level3
5Trainability4
4Mental stimulation needs4
4Adaptability4
4Watchdog / protective4
3Barking3
4Shedding3
4Coat grooming4
3Drooling3
The biggest differences
- Openness to strangers: the Leonberger scores 5 out of 5, the Old English Sheepdog 3.
They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, energy level, mental stimulation needs, adaptability.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Leonberger if you want a dog that is easier to train. Pick the Old English Sheepdog if you want less dog hair.
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.