Rat Terrier vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat 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
Rat Terrier5/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Rat Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Vision deterioration
Hip Issues: Joint complications
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
Rat Terrier
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Low maintenance grooming
Good with children
Highly trainable
Adaptable to various living situations
Cons
Can be vocal
High prey drive
May be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
Can be territorial
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
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
Rat Terrier
Origin:
Developed in America during the 1800s as farm dogs and vermin hunters. These skilled ratters protected grain stores and farmland from rodent infestations across rural areas.
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
Rat Terrier
Regular dental care is crucial. Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
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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