Shetland Sheepdog vs Norwegian Buhund
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Norwegian Buhund: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Norwegian Buhund: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Norwegian Buhund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
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
Norwegian Buhund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Cataracts common
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Von Willebrand's: Blood disorder
Skin Allergies: Various triggers
Dental Issues: Regular care needed
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
Norwegian Buhund
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Requires regular grooming
Strong herding instincts
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Norwegian Buhund Fun Fact
Viking age artifacts show these dogs were so valued they were often buried alongside their owners!
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.
Norwegian Buhund
Origin:
Developed in Norway during the Viking age as versatile farm dogs, these skilled herders managed livestock and served as watchdogs across the Norwegian mountains.
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.
Norwegian Buhund
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
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