Shetland Sheepdog vs German Shepherd Dog
Compare Shetland Sheepdog and German Shepherd Dog side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Shetland Sheepdog
German Shepherd Dog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
35 – 37 cm
61 – 65 cm
Weight
6 – 12 kg
33 – 37 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 13 years
9 – 13 years
Child friendly
3/5
4/5
Energy level
4/5
4/5
Intelligence
5/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
3/5
Shedding
5/5
3/5
Barking level
5/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
4/5
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Characteristics
Shetland Sheepdog
High energy
Super smart
Small
German Shepherd Dog
Great with kids
High energy
Protective
Easy to train
Large
Summary
About Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog is a small to medium, agile herding breed with a dense double coat and striking colors. Bright, sensitive, and very people focused, it bonds closely with family, is reserved with strangers, excels in dog sports, and needs regular grooming, daily walks, and mental exercise.
About German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is a medium‑large, athletic working breed, highly intelligent and trainable. Loyal and naturally protective, it needs extensive daily mental and physical exercise. It has a double coat with notable shedding and is widely used in police, military, and search and rescue roles.
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