Shetland Sheepdog vs Harrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Harrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Harrier: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Harrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Harrier4/5
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
Harrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Various vision concerns
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus risk
Ear Infections: Common due to drop ears
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
Harrier
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Athletic and energetic
Social and friendly
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong hunting instincts
Can be vocal
Needs secure fencing
Not apartment suitable
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Harrier Fun Fact
Harriers were specifically bred to hunt hares at a pace that allowed hunters to follow on foot rather than horseback.
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.
Harrier
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 13th century, these skilled pack hunters excelled at tracking hares. Their size made them ideal for hunters following on foot rather than horseback.
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.
Harrier
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Weekly grooming maintains coat health. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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