Shetland Sheepdog vs Bullmastiff
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Bullmastiff: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Bullmastiff: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Bullmastiff: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Bullmastiff3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Bullmastiff3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Bullmastiff3/5
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
Bullmastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Cancer: Higher susceptibility
Joint Issues: Elbow dysplasia
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
Bullmastiff
Pros
Loyal and protective
Good with family
Low grooming needs
Quiet nature
Excellent guardians
Cons
Heavy droolers
Shorter lifespan
Size management issues
Not good with strangers
Health concerns
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Bullmastiff Fun Fact
Despite their imposing size, Bullmastiffs were bred to be 'silent guardians' and rarely bark unnecessarily.
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.
Bullmastiff
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s by gamekeepers to combat poaching. Combined strength of Mastiff with agility of Bulldog to create silent guardians for large estates.
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.
Bullmastiff
Requires early socialization and training to manage size. Drooling and shedding need regular attention. Health monitoring essential due to breed-specific issues.
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