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Boston Lab vs Sheltie Shepherd Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Boston Lab Tertriever or Sheltie Shepherd?

Compare the Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Boston Lab Tertriever or a Sheltie Shepherd? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Boston Lab Tertriever

Weight

What is the average weight of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd?
22.5 pounds ( 10 kg )
60.0 pounds ( 27 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd
15.5 inches ( 39.4 cm )
26.5 inches ( 67.3 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Boston Labs or Sheltie Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Boston Lab nor Sheltie Shepherd are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd dogs?
Playful
Loving
Energetic
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Loyal
Lively
Gentle
Going
Social
Aggressive
Cheerful

Curious
Playful
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Obedient
Loyal
Lively
Gentle
Watchful

Shedding Level

Do Boston Labs shed more than Sheltie Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Boston Labs or Sheltie Shepherds?

Boston Labs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Sheltie Shepherds are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd?

Boston Labs make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Sheltie Shepherds are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd dog breeds?
United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd breeds?
Boston Terrier, Labrador Retriever

Shetland Sheepdog and German Shepherd

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd?
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd breeds first developed?
Unknown

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd?
Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd breeds?
Brown
Black
White

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Fawn
Silver
Pied
Sable
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd breeds?

Boston Labs have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Sheltie Shepherds are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd?

5-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Boston Lab can have a litter of 5-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

6-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Sheltie Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherds are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Boston Lab breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Sheltie Shepherds typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd breeds?
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Hip Dysplasia

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis
Congenital Heart Defect (CHD)

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd?
Patellar Luxation

Patellar Luxation
Panosteitis
Perianal Fistulas
Eye Conditions (Cataracts, Lens Luxation)

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd breeds?
X-Rays
Urinalysis
Full Blood Work
General Physical Examination

Hearing
Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Diagnostic Imaging
Cardiac Test
Electromyography (EMG)
DNA

Energy

How do the energy levels of Boston Labs and Sheltie Shepherds compare?

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd breeds may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Boston Lab vs Sheltie Shepherd social needs comparison

Boston Lab has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Sheltie Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Boston Lab vs Sheltie Shepherd exercise need comparison.

Boston Labs require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sheltie Shepherds need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd?

Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Boston Labs or Sheltie Shepherds bark more/less frequently?

Compared to most other breeds, Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd tend to be less vocal and bark less frequently. They typically only bark when necessary, such as to communicate or alert their owner, and do not bark excessively, especially when left alone.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Boston Lab vs Sheltie Shepherd?

Roaming urge

Boston Lab vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd entertained?
Fetch, Hide & Seek, Walking, Tug-of-war, Tug of War, Nature walk, Frisbee, Chase, Snuggles, Hike, Walk, Run, Nap, Dog Parks, Tag, Running, Shake, Swim, Dressing up

Walking, Toy

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Boston Labs or Sheltie Shepherds?

High

Boston Labs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Sheltie Shepherds are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd walk each week?

9 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Boston Lab, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

12 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Sheltie Shepherd, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Boston Labs or Sheltie Shepherds require more exercise?

120 minutes

In general most Boston Labs usually need at least 120 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

45 minutes

In general most Sheltie Shepherds usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Boston Labs or Sheltie Shepherds?

The Boston Lab is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Sheltie Shepherds require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd dogs?

Weekly

Boston Lab should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Daily

Ideally, Sheltie Shepherd should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Boston Labs and Sheltie Shepherds?
Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd in cups?

3 cups

For an average 27-50 pound (12 - 23 kg) Boston Lab feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.5 cups

For an average 55-65 pound (25 - 29 kg) Sheltie Shepherd feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Boston Lab is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

$2.20 - $3.40 / day

The average cost of a Sheltie Shepherd is somewhere $2.20 - $3.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Boston Lab is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$67 - $101 / month

The average per month expenses of a Sheltie Shepherd is between $67 - $101. This makes an average of $804 - $1212 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Boston Labs vs Sheltie Shepherds

Boston Lab is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sheltie Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Sensitivity Level

How do Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

These dog breeds are particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, unfamiliar people, or animals. This dog breed is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Boston Lab vs Sheltie Shepherd?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd?

The Boston Lab is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Sheltie Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Boston Labs or Sheltie Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd?

Cat Friendly

Do Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Boston Labs are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Sheltie Shepherds are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd?

Boston Labs are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Sheltie Shepherds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Boston Lab or Sheltie Shepherd?

Boston Labs are highly friendly around strangers.

Sheltie Shepherds are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd?

Boston Labs are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Sheltie Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Boston Labs and Sheltie Shepherds compare?

Boston Lab and Sheltie Shepherd dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Common match-ups