Silky Terrier vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Silky Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Silky Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Silky Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Silky Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Silky Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Silky Terrier4/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
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 Fun Fact
Despite their refined appearance, Silky Terriers were originally bred as capable rat hunters in Sydney's harbors.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
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.
Special Considerations
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.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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