Miniature American Shepherd vs Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer4/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Ear Infections: Due to hair growth
Allergies: Environmental sensitivity
Joint Issues: Activity-related strain
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting abilities
Strong work ethic
Loyal family companion
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
High exercise needs
Independent nature
Regular grooming required
Strong prey drive
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Fun Fact
Their wire coat naturally repels water and provides protection in thorny undergrowth during hunts.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Slovakia during the 1950s, combining German Wirehaired Pointer and other hunting breeds to create an exceptional bird dog capable of working in challenging terrain.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Regular wire coat maintenance needed. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health screening for hip and eye conditions recommended.