Shetland Sheepdog vs Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Anatolian Shepherd Dog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Anatolian Shepherd Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Anatolian Shepherd Dog1/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward condition
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Bloat: Gastric dilatation risk
Cardiomyopathy: Heart muscle disease
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Independent nature
Weather-resistant coat
Low grooming needs
Loyal to family
Cons
Strong-willed and challenging to train
Requires extensive socialization
Not suitable for small spaces
Can be territorial
Independent decision-making
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Fun Fact
Anatolian Shepherds can sprint at speeds up to 35 mph, making them formidable defenders against wolves.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Origin: Turkey
Developed in ancient Anatolia (modern Turkey) as a livestock guardian, protecting flocks from predators across vast mountainous regions. Valued for independence and protective instincts.
Special Considerations
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular exercise essential. Health monitoring important, especially for joint issues and bloat risk.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Shetland Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Shetland Sheepdog vs Wire Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Shetland Sheepdog vs Schipperke →