Azawakh vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Azawakh: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Azawakh: Independent0.4
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Azawakh: 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
Azawakh3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Azawakh3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Azawakh1/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Azawakh
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cardiac issues: Heart conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye problems: Various conditions
Autoimmune disorders: Various types
Skin sensitivity: Environmental
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
Azawakh
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog
Low grooming needs
Athletic and graceful
Cons
Independent nature makes training challenging
Strong prey drive
Requires significant exercise
Can be aloof 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
Azawakh Fun Fact
Azawakhs can reach speeds of up to 40 mph and were traditionally used to hunt gazelles in the Sahara.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
Azawakh
Origin:
Ancient sighthound from West Africa's Sahel region, serving as guardians and hunters for nomadic Tuareg tribes. Prized for their ability to hunt gazelle in harsh desert conditions.
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
Azawakh
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Needs protection in cold weather. Early socialization crucial 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.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
SeasonalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Azawakh vs Borzoi →Same Group
Azawakh vs Afghan Hound →Similar Size
Azawakh vs Afghan Hound →