Shetland Sheepdog vs Saint Bernard
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Saint Bernard: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Saint Bernard: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Saint Bernard: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Saint Bernard5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Saint Bernard3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Saint Bernard3/5
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
Saint Bernard
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Stomach twisting condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Various disorders
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Bone Cancer: Higher risk 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
Saint Bernard
Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal and protective
Good-natured temperament
Excellent cold weather tolerance
Cons
Heavy drooling
Expensive to feed and maintain
Short lifespan
Not suited for hot climates
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Saint Bernard Fun Fact
The iconic barrel around their neck was never actually used in rescues - it's a popular myth from paintings!
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.
Saint Bernard
Origin:
Mountain rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps during the 17th-19th centuries, saving countless lives at the Saint Bernard Pass hospice. Renowned for locating and reviving stranded travelers.
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.
Saint Bernard
Heavy shedding requires regular grooming. Drooling management needed. Exercise moderation in warm weather essential. Joint health supplements often recommended.
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