Shetland Sheepdog vs Norwich Terrier
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Norwich Terrier: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Norwich Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Norwich Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Norwich Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Norwich Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Norwich Terrier5/5
Living Requirements
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
Norwich Terrier
Tracheal collapse: Airway weakness
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye problems: Progressive issues
Dental disease: Tooth decay risk
Epilepsy: Seizure disorder risk
Heart issues: Valve problems
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
Norwich Terrier
Pros
Affectionate with family
Good with children
Adaptable
Low maintenance grooming
Cons
Can be stubborn
Prone to barking
Strong prey drive
May be territorial
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Norwich Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Norwich Terriers were historically used to flush out foxes during hunts!
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.
Norwich Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Eastern England during the 1800s, these tenacious terriers served as ratters in stables and farmyards, proving especially valuable in Norfolk county.
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.
Norwich Terrier
Regular dental care essential. Needs consistent exercise despite small size. Watch for signs of respiratory issues common in small terriers.
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