American Eskimo Dog vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
American Eskimo Dog: Energetic0.8
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
American Eskimo Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Eskimo Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Eskimo Dog5/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Eskimo Dog3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
American Eskimo Dog5/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Eskimo Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Dental Problems: Tooth decay risk
Shetland Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision problems
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
MDR1 Gene: Medicine sensitivity
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Pros & Cons Comparison
American Eskimo Dog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent watchdog
Good with families
Low drooling
Adaptable to different homes
Cons
Heavy shedding
Frequent grooming needed
Can be vocal
High exercise needs
May be reserved with strangers
Shetland Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent family dog
Low maintenance cost
Good with children
Cons
Excessive barking tendency
Heavy shedding
Can be shy with strangers
Requires extensive grooming
American Eskimo Dog Fun Fact
American Eskimo Dogs were popular circus performers in the early 1900s, known for their agility tricks.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
American Eskimo Dog
Origin: United States
Developed in the Nordic regions during the 1800s as versatile farm dogs, serving as herders, watchdogs, and companions to German immigrants in America.
Shetland Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in the Shetland Islands during the 1800s, these dogs were bred to herd sheep and small livestock across rugged terrain while being compact enough to maintain on limited resources.
Special Considerations
American Eskimo Dog
Regular grooming needed for double coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
American Eskimo Dog vs Schipperke →Similar Size
American Eskimo Dog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
American Eskimo Dog vs Miniature Bull Terrier →