Shetland Sheepdog vs Australian Terrier
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Australian Terrier: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Australian Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Australian Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Australian Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Australian Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Australian Terrier3/5
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
Australian Terrier
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Luxating Patella: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint degeneration
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Cruciate Ligament: Knee joint problems
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
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
Australian Terrier
Pros
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Loyal companion
Good watchdog
Adaptable
Intelligent
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Strong prey drive
Can be territorial
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Australian Terrier Fun Fact
Australian Terriers were the first native Australian breed to be recognized and shown in their homeland!
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.
Australian Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s, these terriers excelled at controlling rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, proving invaluable to colonial settlers.
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.
Australian Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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