Shetland Sheepdog vs Irish Terrier
Breed Compatibility
78% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Irish Terrier: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Irish Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Irish Terrier1/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Irish Terrier3/5
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
Irish Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cataract: Vision impairment
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
Hyperkeratosis: Paw pad issues
PRA: Progressive eye disease
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
Irish Terrier
Pros
Loyal and affectionate
Good watchdog
Low grooming needs
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be aggressive with other dogs
Requires firm training
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Irish Terrier Fun Fact
Known as 'Daredevil' of dogdom, Irish Terriers were among the first breeds used as messenger dogs in WWI.
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.
Irish Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s for hunting vermin, guarding farms, and serving as versatile working dogs. Valued for their courage and adaptability 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.
Irish Terrier
Requires regular brushing and stripping of coat. Strong prey drive necessitates secure fencing. Early socialization crucial for managing terrier temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Shetland Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Shetland Sheepdog vs Wire Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Shetland Sheepdog vs Schipperke →