Shetland Sheepdog vs American Eskimo Dog
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, Multi-pet Homes
Maintenance Level
High
Size Category
Medium
Ideal For
Families, First-time Owners
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Shetland Sheepdog might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Have other pets at home
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
American Eskimo Dog might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Often have visitors or socialize frequently
- Want a breed known for longevity
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, often referred to as the 'Sheltie,' is a small to medium-sized herding dog known for its intelligence, agility, and loyalty. With a graceful and elegant appearance, they possess a long, flowing double coat that comes in a variety of colors, including sable, black, and blue merle. Shelties are known for their keen expression and are often mistaken for miniature Rough Collies. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and herding tasks. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent family pets, and they are known to be gentle with children and other animals. Shetland Sheepdogs are also known for their strong protective instincts, making them good watchdogs, but they can be reserved around strangers.
American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is a versatile, intelligent, and friendly breed that comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They are known for their striking white coat, which is thick and fluffy, requiring regular grooming to maintain. Their ears are erect and triangular, and they have a bushy tail that curls over their back. American Eskimo Dogs are known for their alertness, making them excellent watchdogs. They are also very social and enjoy being part of family activities, often forming strong bonds with their human companions. Their playful nature and high energy levels make them great companions for active families, though they require consistent training and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Excellent with children
Excellent with children
Good with Other Dogs
Very social with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Moderate shedding level
Moderate shedding level
Grooming Needs
Moderate grooming needs
Moderate grooming needs
Trainability
Highly trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Very energetic breed
Very energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Frequent barking tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Shetland Sheepdog
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush their coat at least once a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Feeding
Ensure a balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and energy level.
Health Care
Provide fresh water daily and monitor their food intake to maintain a healthy weight.
American Eskimo Dog
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush their coat at least twice a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and size, ensuring proper nutrition.
Health Care
Regularly check and clip their nails to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush their coat at least once a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Grooming
Brush their coat at least twice a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Feeding
Ensure a balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and energy level.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and size, ensuring proper nutrition.
Health Care
Provide fresh water daily and monitor their food intake to maintain a healthy weight.
Health Care
Regularly check and clip their nails to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
Additional Care Notes
Shetland Sheepdog
- •Check their ears regularly for dirt and debris and clean them as needed.
American Eskimo Dog
- •Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage desired behaviors. Consistency is key, as is socialization with other dogs and people to ensure a well-rounded temperament.
Training Challenges
- •herding instincts may lead to chasing smaller animals
- •sensitivity to harsh training methods
- •tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
- •can be stubborn if not adequately stimulated
- •separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
American Eskimo Dog
American Eskimo Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and patience are key; short, frequent training sessions are more effective than longer, infrequent ones. Socialization with other dogs and people is also crucial during their early development stages.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness if not properly motivated
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
- •Barking tendencies, which can become excessive without proper training
- •Sensitivity to harsh training methods, which can lead to fear or anxiety
- •Over-excitement in new environments or around unfamiliar people
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage desired behaviors. Consistency is key, as is socialization with other dogs and people to ensure a well-rounded temperament.
Training Challenges
- •herding instincts may lead to chasing smaller animals
- •sensitivity to harsh training methods
- •tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
- •can be stubborn if not adequately stimulated
- •separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
American Eskimo Dog
American Eskimo Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and patience are key; short, frequent training sessions are more effective than longer, infrequent ones. Socialization with other dogs and people is also crucial during their early development stages.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness if not properly motivated
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
- •Barking tendencies, which can become excessive without proper training
- •Sensitivity to harsh training methods, which can lead to fear or anxiety
- •Over-excitement in new environments or around unfamiliar people
Training Resources
Shetland Sheepdog Training Guide
American Eskimo Dog Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Shetland Sheepdog Breeders
Find American Eskimo Dog Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.