Shetland Sheepdog vs Scottish Terrier
Breed Compatibility
69% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Scottish Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Scottish Terrier: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Scottish Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Scottish Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Scottish Terrier2/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Scottish Terrier3/5
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
Scottish Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Scottie Cramp: Movement disorder
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain condition
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
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
Scottish Terrier
Pros
Loyal and protective
Low shedding
Good watchdog
Adaptable to various living spaces
Cons
Stubborn streak
High grooming needs
Can be territorial
Strong prey drive
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Scottish Terrier Fun Fact
President Franklin D. Roosevelt's beloved Scottie, Fala, became one of the most famous presidential pets.
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.
Scottish Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1700s, these tenacious terriers excelled at hunting badgers, foxes, and other burrowing prey in challenging terrain.
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.
Scottish Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Strong prey drive requires secure fencing. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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