VS

Labrador Retriever vs Shetland Sheepdog Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Lab or Miniature Collie?

Compare the Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Lab or a Miniature Collie? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Labrador, Lab
Miniature Collie, Dwarf Scotch Shepherd (obsolete), Toonie Dog (obsolete), Shetland Collie (obsolete), Sheltie

Weight

What is the average weight of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?
72.5 pounds ( 33 kg )
19.0 pounds ( 9 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog
23.0 inches ( 58.4 cm )
14.5 inches ( 36.8 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

Labrador Retriever tends to gain weight easily, needs increased exercise and playtime along with controlled food intake.

Shetland Sheepdog has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Labrador Retrievers or Shetland Sheepdogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Labrador Retriever nor Shetland Sheepdog are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog dogs?
Affectionate
Cheerful
Friendly
Intelligent
Loyal
Playful
Social
Alert
Energetic
Gentle
Loving
Going
Responsive

Affectionate
Gentle
Lively
Responsive
Friendly
Intelligent
Playful

Shedding Level

Do Labrador Retrievers shed more than Shetland Sheepdogs, or which breed sheds more, Labrador Retrievers or Shetland Sheepdogs?

Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

Labrador Retrievers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Shetland Sheepdogs make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog dog breeds?
Canada

Scotland (Shetland Islands)

Ancestry

What are the origins of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds?
St. John's Water Dog

collie

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Date of Birth

When were Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds first developed?
1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?
Sporting (AKC:1917)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Herding (AKC:1911 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog dogs?
Hazel
Brown
Amber

Blue
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?
Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds?
Black
Brown
Cream

Sable
Black
Blue
White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds?

Labrador Retrievers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Shetland Sheepdogs have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

A Labrador Retriever can have a litter of 10-12 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.

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Shetland Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-14 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

Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdogs 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 Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds?
Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Dermatomyositis
Sensitive to Ivermectin

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?
Otitis Externa
Cataract
Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Patellar Luxation
Cataract
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Collie Eye Anomaly

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds?
Eye
Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Ear Examination

Eye
Hip
Hearing
Blood Test
Hip X-Rays
Dna For Vwd
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Labrador Retrievers and Shetland Sheepdogs compare?

Labrador Retrievers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Shetland Sheepdogs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Labrador Retriever vs Shetland Sheepdog social needs comparison

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

Shetland Sheepdog has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Labrador Retriever vs Shetland Sheepdog exercise need comparison.

Labrador Retrievers need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Shetland Sheepdogs need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

Labrador Retrievers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Shetland Sheepdogs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

Labrador Retriever is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.

Shetland Sheepdog minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Labrador Retrievers or Shetland Sheepdogs bark more/less frequently?

Labrador Retrievers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Shetland Sheepdog dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog a better guard dog?

While Labrador Retriever dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Shetland Sheepdog dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Labrador Retriever vs Shetland Sheepdog?

Roaming urge

Labrador Retriever vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog entertained?
Fetch, Tug-of-war, Chase, Dog Parks, Walk, Run, Play, Walking, Cuddling, Exploring, Sniffing, Petting, Running, Boat ride, Swim, Tracking, Chasing, Smelling, Going out, Walks, Frisbee, Road trip, Meeting people, Shake, Swimming, Playdate, Chew, Smell, Walki, Being pet

Walk, Playing fetch, Tug of war, Training, Running, Go to Beach, Go to Park, Long walks, Run After birds, Showing, Beach, Obedience, Snuggles, Soccer, Frisbee, Run, Play, Chase, Fetch, Dog Parks

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Labrador Retrievers or Shetland Sheepdogs?

High

Labrador Retrievers 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

Shetland Sheepdogs 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 Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog walk each week?

15 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Labrador Retriever, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shetland Sheepdog, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Labrador Retrievers or Shetland Sheepdogs require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Labrador Retrievers usually need at least 60 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 Shetland Sheepdogs 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, Labrador Retrievers or Shetland Sheepdogs?

The Labrador Retriever is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Shetland Sheepdogs have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog dogs?

Daily

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

Weekly

Shetland Sheepdog 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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Labrador Retrievers and Shetland Sheepdogs?
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 65-80 pound (29 - 36 kg) Labrador Retriever 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.

2 cups

For an average 14-27 pound (6 - 12 kg) Shetland Sheepdog feed 2 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, Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of a Labrador Retriever is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Shetland Sheepdog is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of a Labrador Retriever is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 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.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Shetland Sheepdog 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Labrador Retrievers vs Shetland Sheepdogs

The Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog breeds are considered highly intelligent and very easy to train.

Sensitivity Level

How do Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog compare in sensitivity?

These dog breeds are particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog 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: Labrador Retriever vs Shetland Sheepdog?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

It's not recommended to keep Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog in an apartment, but these breeds make good apartment dogs as long as they get to spend a good amount of time outside of the apartment. Dogs of these breeds living in apartments will need plenty of physical exercise and stimulation throughout the day to remain happy and well-behaved.

Child Friendly

Do Labrador Retrievers or Shetland Sheepdogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Labrador Retrievers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Shetland Sheepdogs are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

Cat Friendly

Do Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Labrador Retrievers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Shetland Sheepdogs are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

Labrador Retrievers are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Shetland Sheepdogs are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Labrador Retriever or Shetland Sheepdog?

Labrador Retrievers are highly friendly around strangers.

Shetland Sheepdogs are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Labrador Retriever and Shetland Sheepdog?

Labrador Retrievers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Labrador Retrievers and Shetland Sheepdogs compare?

The Labrador Retriever is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

Shetland Sheepdogs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups