American Hairless Terrier vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
83% Compatible
Energy Level
American Hairless Terrier: N/A
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Less Compatible
Trainability
American Hairless Terrier: N/A
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Hairless Terrier: N/A
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Hairless Terrier5/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Hairless Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
American Hairless Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Hairless Terrier
Allergies: Skin sensitivity issues
Dental issues: Regular cleaning needed
Patella luxation: Knee joint problems
Eye problems: Various conditions
Heart issues: Regular monitoring needed
Thyroid concerns: Hormone imbalances
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 Hairless Terrier
Pros
Hypoallergenic
Great for families
Low maintenance grooming
Highly adaptable
Intelligent and trainable
Cons
Needs sun protection
Temperature sensitive
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
May be vocal
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 Hairless Terrier Fun Fact
They're born with a fine coat of fur that falls out, leaving them completely hairless by 6-8 weeks of age!
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
American Hairless Terrier
Origin: United States
Developed in Louisiana during the 1970s from a hairless mutation in Rat Terriers. Bred specifically as companion dogs and for families seeking hypoallergenic pets.
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 Hairless Terrier
Needs sun protection and temperature regulation. Regular skin care required. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Special attention to dental hygiene important.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.