Shetland Sheepdog vs Boykin Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
100% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Boykin Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Boykin Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Boykin Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Boykin Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Boykin Spaniel5/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Boykin Spaniel3/5
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
Boykin Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Exercise Induced Collapse: Activity care
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
Collie Eye Anomaly: Genetic eye concern
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
Boykin Spaniel
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Friendly family dog
Highly trainable
Good with children
Versatile athlete
Cons
Requires regular exercise
Moderate grooming needs
Can be sensitive
Needs consistent training
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Boykin Spaniel Fun Fact
Known as 'the little brown dog that doesn't rock the boat' due to their compact size and steady nature.
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.
Boykin Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in South Carolina during the early 1900s by hunters seeking a versatile retriever for waterfowl and wild turkey hunting in local swamps and marshlands.
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.
Boykin Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise routine. Monitor for common health issues and maintain regular veterinary check-ups.
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