Norfolk Terrier vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Norfolk Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Norfolk Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Norfolk Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Norfolk Terrier5/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Norfolk Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Norfolk Terrier5/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Norfolk Terrier
Mitral Valve Disease: Heart condition
Patellar Luxation: Knee joint issue
Dental Problems: Tooth decay risk
Eye Issues: Various conditions
Hip Problems: Joint concerns
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
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
Norfolk Terrier
Pros
Good with families
Compact size
Adaptable
Low grooming needs
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Prey drive
Occasional health issues
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
Norfolk Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Norfolk Terriers were bred to be fearless ratters and could work alongside foxhounds.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
Norfolk Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Eastern England during the 1800s, these small terriers served as ratters in farms and stables, proving especially valuable in controlling vermin populations.
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
Norfolk Terrier
Weekly brushing required, regular dental care important. Need secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Watch for signs of joint issues and heart problems.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
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