Mastiff vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
41% Compatible
Energy Level
Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Mastiff: Agreeable0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Mastiff: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Mastiff/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Mastiff/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Mastiff/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Mastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Bloat: Gastric torsion condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Eye Problems: Various optical issues
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Cancer: Various types common in breed
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
Mastiff
Pros
Gentle and patient nature
Excellent guard dog
Good with family
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Shorter lifespan
Requires significant space
High food costs
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
Mastiff Fun Fact
Ancient Mastiffs were so valued in battle that entire units of Roman armies were dedicated to their care.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
Mastiff
Origin:
Ancient Roman war dogs evolved into estate guardians across medieval England. These powerful dogs protected estates and served as hunting companions for nobility.
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
Mastiff
Heat sensitivity requires climate control. Regular monitoring for bloat symptoms essential. Joint support supplements recommended throughout life.
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
Mastiff vs Neapolitan Mastiff →Same Group
Mastiff vs Boxer →