Shetland Sheepdog vs Silky Terrier
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Silky Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Silky Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Silky 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
Silky Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Silky Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Silky Terrier4/5
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
Silky Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Tracheal Collapse: Breathing difficulty
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
Silky Terrier
Pros
Low shedding coat
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to apartment living
Intelligent and trainable
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
May chase small animals
Stubborn streak
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Silky Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their refined appearance, Silky Terriers were originally bred as capable rat hunters in Sydney's harbors.
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.
Silky Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the late 19th century, these terriers excelled at hunting small vermin in urban areas while maintaining their role as refined companion dogs.
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.
Silky Terrier
Regular coat maintenance essential with brushing 2-3 times weekly. Moderate exercise needs must be met. Dental care crucial due to common oral health issues.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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