Shetland Sheepdog vs Gordon Setter
Breed Compatibility
73% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Gordon Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Gordon Setter: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Gordon Setter: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Gordon Setter3/5
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
Gordon Setter
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Cancer: Various types common in breed
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
Gordon Setter
Pros
Loyal and affectionate
Excellent hunting companion
Good with children
Athletic and energetic
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Not apartment-friendly
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Gordon Setter Fun Fact
Gordon Setters were once known as 'Black and Tan Setters' before being renamed after the Duke of Gordon.
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.
Gordon Setter
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1600s by the Duke of Gordon, these dogs excelled at hunting game birds in the Scottish Highlands, using their exceptional scenting abilities and stamina.
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.
Gordon Setter
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Health screening for common breed issues is essential.
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