Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Energetic0.8
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Independent0.4
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Soft Coated Wheaten 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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier5/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
PLN: Protein-losing nephropathy
PLE: Protein-losing enteropathy
RD: Renal dysplasia concerns
Addison's: Adrenal insufficiency
IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease
Hip Dysplasia: Joint condition
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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Pros
Minimal shedding coat
Good with families
Adaptable to different homes
Friendly personality
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
Health issues common
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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Fun Fact
Their soft, silky coat is unique among terriers, who typically have wiry fur.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Heritage & Purpose
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s as a versatile farm dog, skilled at hunting vermin, herding livestock, and serving as a loyal family companion.
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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Watch for signs of protein-losing conditions and maintain regular vet check-ups.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.