Plott Hound vs Miniature American Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
40% Compatible
Energy Level
Plott Hound: Energetic0.8
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Plott Hound: Independent0.4
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Plott Hound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Plott Hound0/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Plott Hound0/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Strangers
Plott Hound0/5
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Plott Hound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Digestive emergency condition
Eye Problems: Various vision issues
Ear Infections: Common in hanging ears
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Skin Allergies: Environmental reactions
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Plott Hound
Pros
Excellent tracking abilities
Loyal companion
Athletic and enduring
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Not apartment suitable
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
Plott Hound Fun Fact
Plott Hounds are the only officially recognized breed developed in North Carolina.
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Heritage & Purpose
Plott Hound
Origin: United States
Developed in the mountains of North Carolina during the 1750s for tracking and treeing large game. German immigrant Johannes Plott refined the breed for bear hunting.
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.
Special Considerations
Plott Hound
Needs secure fencing due to strong tracking instincts. Regular exercise crucial for good behavior. Occasional grooming required but generally low maintenance.
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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