Shetland Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Belgian Tervuren: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Belgian Tervuren: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Belgian Tervuren: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Belgian Tervuren3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Belgian Tervuren3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Belgian Tervuren3/5
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
Belgian Tervuren
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivity
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
Belgian Tervuren
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent working dog
Loyal and protective
Athletic and agile
Good with family
Cons
High exercise needs
Intensive grooming required
Can be aloof with strangers
Strong herding instinct
Requires experienced owner
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Belgian Tervuren Fun Fact
The Tervuren's distinctive black overlay on their coat naturally darkens with age, creating a unique appearance.
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.
Belgian Tervuren
Origin:
Developed in Belgium during the 1800s as a versatile herding and guard dog for livestock. Valued for their exceptional working abilities and protective instincts in rural settings.
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.
Belgian Tervuren
Regular grooming needed for double coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization and training essential for balanced temperament.
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