Anatolian Shepherd Dog vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Independent0.4
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Anatolian Shepherd 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
Anatolian Shepherd Dog3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Anatolian Shepherd Dog3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Anatolian Shepherd Dog1/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward condition
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Bloat: Gastric dilatation risk
Cardiomyopathy: Heart muscle disease
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
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Independent nature
Weather-resistant coat
Low grooming needs
Loyal to family
Cons
Strong-willed and challenging to train
Requires extensive socialization
Not suitable for small spaces
Can be territorial
Independent decision-making
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
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Fun Fact
Anatolian Shepherds can sprint at speeds up to 35 mph, making them formidable defenders against wolves.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Origin: Turkey
Developed in ancient Anatolia (modern Turkey) as a livestock guardian, protecting flocks from predators across vast mountainous regions. Valued for independence and protective instincts.
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
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular exercise essential. Health monitoring important, especially for joint issues and bloat risk.
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
Anatolian Shepherd Dog vs Boxer →Similar Size
Anatolian Shepherd Dog vs Neapolitan Mastiff →