American Staffordshire Terrier vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
American Staffordshire Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
American Staffordshire Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Staffordshire Terrier: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Staffordshire Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Staffordshire Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
American Staffordshire Terrier4/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Staffordshire Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Disease: Cardiac concerns
Skin Allergies: Dermatitis issues
Thyroid Problems: Hormone imbalance
Eye Issues: Progressive retinal
CCL Tears: Knee ligament damage
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 Staffordshire Terrier
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent with children
Strong and athletic
Easy to groom
Cons
Strong prey drive
Need extensive socialization
May be dog aggressive
High exercise needs
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 Staffordshire Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their muscular appearance, AmStaffs are often called 'nanny dogs' due to their gentle nature with children.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
American Staffordshire Terrier
Origin:
Developed in 19th century America from English bull-and-terrier breeds, these dogs served as all-purpose farm dogs and family guardians throughout the American heartland.
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 Staffordshire Terrier
Needs early socialization, consistent training, and regular exercise. Careful introduction to other pets required. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues essential.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.