Shetland Sheepdog vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison

Shetland Sheepdog vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed ComparisonShetland Sheepdog is originated from United Kingdom but New Zealand Huntaway is originated from New Zealand. Shetland Sheepdog may grow 19 cm / 7 inches shorter than New Zealand Huntaway. Shetland Sheepdog may weigh 28 kg / 61 pounds lesser than New Zealand Huntaway. Both Shetland Sheepdog and New Zealand Huntaway has same life span. Both Shetland Sheepdog and New Zealand Huntaway has almost same litter size. Both Shetland Sheepdog and New Zealand Huntaway requires Moderate maintenance.

History

shetland sheepdog - historyThe Shetland Sheepdog was crossed with working collies and brought to the islands. They were bred on the Shetland Islands, United Kingdom.

These little dogs have always been particularly valuable to farmers who used them to herd their sheep.

During the early 20th century other crosses occurred an in 1909 and the little dog received recognition by the English Kennel Club. The first Sheltie to be registered by the American Kennel Club was in 1911.

new zealand huntaway - historyThe New Zealand Huntaway was developed in New Zealand. The dog was brought about by mixing the Border Collie with a number of other breeds, of which the Doberman Pinscher is one.

The idea was to have a skilled herding dog for livestock, and the Huntaway is known for its loud bark which it uses to herd.

The dog is looked upon as as a fairly new breed, dating from the late 19th century. These days it is a popular companion dog, and in 2013 was recognized by the New Zealand Kennel Club.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Herding dogs
Origin:
United Kingdom
New Zealand
Height Male:
33 - 41 cm
12 - 17 inches
50 - 60 cm
19 - 24 inches
Height Female:
33 - 41 cm
12 - 17 inches
50 - 60 cm
19 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
6 - 12 kg
13 - 27 pounds
25 - 40 kg
55 - 89 pounds
Weight Female:
6 - 12 kg
13 - 27 pounds
25 - 40 kg
55 - 89 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
5 - 7
Size:
Small dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Sheltie
New Zealand Sheepdog
Colors Available:
Mix of colors - golden, black or a steel grey color with white
brindle, Black and tan
Coat:
Long and thick
Smooth or rough textured
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

shetland sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe small Shetland Sheepdog stands at between 33 to 41cm and weighs roughly between 6 and 12kg for both males and females. The long double coat of this dog sheds consistently, he will need to be brushed regularly.

The coat is golden, black or a steel grey color with white. The ears are erect and the tail long and feathery and the expression on this dogs face is sensitive, alert and gentle.

Temperament:

Shelties make wonderful pets for their human families and are great with children too. They’re protective, making good watchdogs. They are somewhat wary around strangers.

Smart and alert, you can train this little dog plenty of tricks because he is quick to learn. They’re such agile little dogs and are great athletes. It’s always a good idea to keep such a smart little dog busy so he doesn’t become bored.

He is able to adjust to life in the city or the countryside, so long as he is kept busy, otherwise he takes to a piercing kind of bark.

new zealand huntaway puppy - descriptionAs a deep chested, medium to large sized dog, the New Zealand Huntaway stands at between 50 and 60cm and weighs roughly 25 to 40kg.

The eyes are soft and kind. The coat is usually black and tan colored, although it can be brindle too. The coat is in different textures and can be mostly smooth, but also fairly rough textured. The ears are usually medium length and floppy, the legs straight and long and the tail is long.

Temperament:

These dogs are good natured and are guaranteed to make a splendid family pet. Because they have always been used to life in the country, they are more suited to this lifestyle than for living in the city.

They are friendly, energetic dogs and will require a good deal of exercise.They don’t take easily to lying around bored and this lifestyle will just lead to frustration and destructive behavior, through no fault of their own.

Just like with any other dog, the New Zealand Huntaway will need to be trained and socialized so that he becomes obedient and well rounded. This is necessary for him as he is an independent canine with a determined streak.

His intelligence will mean he is able to learn easily. He also is gentle and kind-hearted, and gets on well with kids and pets in the home.

Characteristics

shetland sheepdog dog - characteristicsYou’re certainly not going to have one dull moment with the Shetland sheepdog – its such a lively, intelligent, entertaining, playful and also eager to please - that's your Sheltie.

They also have a gentle, quiet side. They love the company of their human family and are able to adapt to life in the city or countryside, so long as he gets lots of attention and exercise.

They’re highly strung dogs, and an excitable child can get them barking in a high pitched way which wont be good if you live close to your neighbors.

Shelties are essentially peaceful dogs who prefer a home where its quiet and orderly. If you give this dog what it needs, just like you would for any family member of yours, you’ll be blessed with an awesome pet and companion.

new zealand huntaway dog - characteristicsThe Huntaway has got so much going for him to make him a splendid family pet. Not only is he intelligent, but he is evenly balanced, friendly, social and active.

He can easily be trained and socialized. He is friendly and gentle with other pets in the home as well as with children. With a firm, fair, kind, patient and consistent owner in his life, this dog with the gentle brown eyes will be a fantastic pet for you.

Health Problems

shetland sheepdog puppies - health problemsEvery dog, no matter how healthy, can succumb to any one of the many dog illnesses there are.Some of the dog illnesses to look out for include cancer, bloat, ear infections, dental problems, hypothyroidism, skin allergies and obesity among others.

Hypothyroidism:

This illness occurs when the dog’s body doesn’t maintain sufficient levels of thyroid hormones. Your pet will be sensitive to the cold, the thick hair will be thinning and there will be weight gain. It will be wise to have your dog checked out by your vet as this is an ailment which can be managed with medication.

Collie Eye Anomaly:

This is an inherited condition that can lead to blindness in some dogs. It can occur in both eyes. It can be diagnosed by your vet but regrettably there is no treatment. Not spaying or neutering your dog will mean that if the have puppies the gene can be carried down to the puppies.

Dermatomyositis:

This is an inherited disorder that can cause skin lesions but also affect the muscles. Skin lesions can appear on the head and the front legs and there can be hair loss.

new zealand huntaway puppies - health problemsThe Huntaway is the kind of dog that won’t require you having to rush off to the vet with him. Good care with nutritious food and exercise can see him reaching 14 years of age or so.

Some common dog illnesses to look out for include -

Dilated Caridomyopathy:

This disease is about degeneration of the heart muscle with the muscle becoming thinner. The pressure of the blood inside the heart causes these thin walls to stretch, resulting in the heart becoming enlarged.

Although heart disease develops slowly, severe congestive heart failure can develop quickly and you may notice rapid breathing and a blue tongue. It is imperative to get your pet to the vet immediately.

Small studies have revealed that the rate of Dilated Caridomyopathy could be higher in Huntaways.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is an issue where the hips haven’t formed properly. Affected dogs lose their mobility and battle with pain and lameness. Certainly you will need to get your pet to the vet to make sure that he is pain-free and comfortable.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

shetland sheepdog dogs - caringThese little dogs have always been farm dogs and they will need a lot of exercise. Even so, with their small size, they can adapt to life in the city or the countryside, but will always need exercise.They love going for walks and playing games with the kids.

Grooming:

Your Sheltie will need brushing every day because the hair can so easily pick up leaves, twigs and burrs. In the warmer months some people prefer to trim the coat themselves or take the dog along to a professional groomer.

Diet:

It is best to feed adult dogs two meals a day instead of one. One can make your dog want to gobble up his food too quickly and this can result in a life threatening condition known as bloat.

How much any adult dog eats will depend on his size, his age and his activity levels.The quality of dog food you buy also makes a huge difference – the better quality the food, the more satisfied your Sheltie will be.

Some of the best commercially manufactured dog foods are convenient and they can be good if you go with the best brands that have high levels of vitamins and minerals in them. Dry kibble can be made more enticing when you add some homemade food into it.

Boiled chicken, sweet potatoes, brown rice or pasta, carrots and spinach will do him the world of good. Chop it up and add small portions to the kibble about twice a week. His wagging tail and prancing antics will be all the thanks you need.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will also contribute to your pet’s heath. Make sure he is never without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

new zealand huntaway dogs - caringThis dog is an average shedder and fairly low maintenance, requiring you to brush him twice a week to keep the coat shiny and free from loose hairs.

Dogs that have floppy- or folded ears need to have their ears checked for infection as well as their eyes. They also need to have the nails trimmed as left long, they can hook onto things which can rip into the dog’s flesh.

Diet:

The Huntaway is a herding dog, and even though your dog today is more of a companion dog, he will need to be fed a high-quality commercial dog food which has been particularly formulated for active working dog breeds.

It is a good idea to sometimes break away from a bowl of kibble and to mix in some homemade food. The simpler the better for your dog, and boiled chicken, some brown rice or pasta and some vegetables such as sweet potato, carrots and spinach mixed into his kibble occasionally will do him the world of good.

Now and then you can also add in some raw meat if possible. Avoid exotic, spicy foods with your pet to avoid digestive problems.

Exercise:

This dog has always been a hunting, herding dog so it is going to require a lot of exercise to keep him content and happy.

He won’t only need physical exercise but will also need mental stimulation as he is an intelligent dog too. Apart from taking him for walks and giving him ball- and rope games, for mental stimulation, why not consider some food puzzle toys?

These are sturdy containers that hold dog food and treats inside. Dogs have to paw at it, lick, shake and think up ways to get at the tasty treat. These food puzzle toys will keep your pet occupied for a while and keep him happily thinking.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  2. Pyrenean Shepherd vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  3. Queensland Heeler vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  4. Red Heeler vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  5. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. New Zealand Huntaway vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  7. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. New Zealand Huntaway vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  9. New Zealand Huntaway vs Collie - Breed Comparison
  10. New Zealand Huntaway vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  11. New Zealand Huntaway vs Dutch Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. New Zealand Huntaway vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  13. New Zealand Huntaway vs English Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  15. New Zealand Huntaway vs Catahoula Cur - Breed Comparison
  16. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  17. New Zealand Huntaway vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  18. New Zealand Huntaway vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  19. New Zealand Huntaway vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  20. New Zealand Huntaway vs Appenzell Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  21. New Zealand Huntaway vs German Coolie - Breed Comparison
  22. New Zealand Huntaway vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. New Zealand Huntaway vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  24. New Zealand Huntaway vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  25. New Zealand Huntaway vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  26. Shetland Sheepdog vs Corgi - Breed Comparison
  27. Shetland Sheepdog vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Shetland Sheepdog vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  29. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  30. Toy Australian Shepherd vs Shetland Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  31. Welsh Corgi vs Shetland Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  32. Shetland Sheepdog vs Pomeranian - Breed Comparison
  33. Shetland Sheepdog vs Maltese - Breed Comparison
  34. Shetland Sheepdog vs Pug - Breed Comparison
  35. Shetland Sheepdog vs Boston Terrier - Breed Comparison
  36. Shetland Sheepdog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  37. Shetland Sheepdog vs Maltipoo - Breed Comparison
  38. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  39. Shetland Sheepdog vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  40. Shetland Sheepdog vs Dachshund - Breed Comparison
  41. Shetland Sheepdog vs Jack Russell Terrier - Breed Comparison
  42. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cockapoo - Breed Comparison
  43. Shetland Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  44. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cavapoo - Breed Comparison
  45. Shetland Sheepdog vs Miniature Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  46. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cavachon - Breed Comparison
  47. Shetland Sheepdog vs Mal-Shi - Breed Comparison
  48. Shetland Sheepdog vs Papillon - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds