Shetland Sheepdog vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison

Shetland Sheepdog vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed ComparisonShetland Sheepdog is originated from United Kingdom but Miniature Siberian Husky is originated from United States. Both Shetland Sheepdog and Miniature Siberian Husky are having almost same height. Both Shetland Sheepdog and Miniature Siberian Husky are having almost same weight. Both Shetland Sheepdog and Miniature Siberian Husky has same life span. Shetland Sheepdog may have less litter size than Miniature Siberian Husky. Both Shetland Sheepdog and Miniature Siberian Husky 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.

miniature siberian husky - historyMiniature Siberian Huskies – also known as mini huskies – are your regular Siberian husky bred to be that much smaller than what the breed standard dictates.

They’re sought after by those who love the regular sized Siberian Husky but who find the larger dog too large and boisterous. They come complete with the looks and the temperament of the Siberian Husky but they are smaller.

The origins of these gorgeous Mini huskies is conflicting though as some believe they originated in the USA. The name of Bree Normandin is bandied about when talking of the breed’s origin while other refer to Linda S. Spurlin from Alaska. She became interested in them when her full-sized husky became pregnant by a small dog.

Spurlin used Siberian and Alaskan Huskies as well as small Schipperkes and American Eskimo Dogs to bring about the mini version. They’ve got the same pedigree as the Siberian Husky, but it has been selectively bred for its smaller size, also coming from the Spitz family of dogs.

The Miniature Husky is genetically the same as the larger Siberian Husky and the AKC doesn’t recognize it as a separate breed, but sees it as a different size variation of the working-group Siberian Husky.

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.

miniature siberian husky puppy - descriptionKnown also as the Alaskan Klee Klai,the Miniature Siberian Husky stands at 33-39cm in height and weighs between 8 - 11kg.

These mini huskies are like the larger huskies and can also come in a range of color variations such as grey and white, black and white or red and white for instance. In typical Spitz dog fashion they have the erect ears and long bushy tail. A striking feature of these dogs is the beautiful eyes – they can be brown but also a mesmerising blue.

Temperament:

This Miniature Siberian Husky is an intelligent dog and you’re not going to have any trouble with him teaching him some basic commands such as sit, lie-down and stay.

You need to know that these dogs aren’t going to be content lying around all day and that they want to be kept busy almost around the clock. They have always been working dogs so he will need plenty of mental – and physical exercise to keep him content. A bored, frustrated Mini Husky will just develop problem behavior through no fault of his own. People who buy high energy dogs have a responsibility towards them to keep them busy and well exercised.

These dogs are similar to their genetic ancestor, the wolf, and instead of barking, you may find him trying to communicate with a howl. One thing is sure, they make great family pets, and their gentle nature allows them to get on well with children and also not to show aggression with other dogs. They’re loyal, outgoing and charming.

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.

miniature siberian husky dog - characteristicsYour cuddly Mini Siberian Husky is such an intelligent dog, active and social and guaranteed to make you a splendid pet.

Being somewhat wary and aloof with strangers, they also make good watchdogs. They do well with children who have been taught to be kind and gentle with animals.

With good care your dog can reach up to 15 years of age, providing you with many years of superb friendship.

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.

miniature siberian husky puppies - health problemsYour Miniature Siberian Husky is a healthy dog and you won’t have to spend too much money on him at the vet. However, just like with any other dog, he can battle with some of the common dog diseases -

Cataracts:

This eye problem affects about 10% of all Siberian Huskies and its not limited to old dogs. Juvenile cataracts can affect young dogs too. Luckily the problem isn’t painful for the dog.

Skin problems:

Skin problems can be a concern for the Mini Siberian Husky, especially as one is used to seeing these dogs with thick coats. Follicular dysplasia is a genetic condition that causes patchy hair loss as well as a scaly, infected skin.

Check out that your dog is receiving nutritious food with vitamins and minerals as a zinc deficiency for instance can cause hair loss as well as skin problems.

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.

Exercise:

miniature siberian husky dogs - caringThe Miniature Husky is an active and energetic breed that is going to require a lot of exercise. He is able to adapt to life in the city or the countryside but wherever you keep him as a pet, he will require regular daily exercise.

Don't Allow him to Overheat:

These dogs are used to cold climates so make sure your Mini Siberian Husky doesn’t overheat. Make sure that when he’s outdoors, there is shade for him and a water bowl. You’ll be doing him a real favor if you provide him with a small paddling pool to dip into on a hot day.

Grooming:

These are clean, odorless dogs that actually require little human help to be groomed. You can give your dog a good brush twice a week.

Diet:

Mini Siberian Huskies, like the larger breed, have a high metabolism, so small amounts of highly nutritious food will do well with them. If you intend feeding your one commercially manufactured food, make sure its the high quality food that comes with plenty of minerals and vitamins. Try and avoid the low quality brands that come packed with unhealthy preservatives and colorants.

Dogs do well on simple, nutritious diets, so some boiled chicken, brown rice and raw and cooked vegetables such as carrots, potatoes and spinach added into the dry kibble from time to time will do him wonders.

Also try and include some raw meat into the kibble from time to time. That's it, as simple as that- no exotic, spicy foods and foods which we humans eat such as nuts, chips and chocolate – all can be toxic for your pet and just give him an upset stomach.

Make sure fresh, cool water is constantly available.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Working dog
Origin:
United Kingdom
United States
Height Male:
33 - 41 cm
12 - 17 inches
33 - 39 cm
12 - 16 inches
Height Female:
33 - 41 cm
12 - 17 inches
33 - 39 cm
12 - 16 inches
Weight Male:
6 - 12 kg
13 - 27 pounds
8 - 11 kg
17 - 25 pounds
Weight Female:
6 - 12 kg
13 - 27 pounds
8 - 11 kg
17 - 25 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
3 - 9
Size:
Small dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Sheltie
Alaskan Klee Klai
Colors Available:
Mix of colors - golden, black or a steel grey color with white
Red and White, Grey and White, Black and White
Coat:
Long and thick
Thick, medium length, double-coated
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, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Miniature Siberian Husky vs Indian Spitz - Breed Comparison
  2. Miniature Siberian Husky vs Irish Jack Russell - Breed Comparison
  3. Miniature Siberian Husky vs Lancashire Heeler - Breed Comparison
  4. Miniature Siberian Husky vs Danish Swedish Farmdog - Breed Comparison
  5. Telomian vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  6. Turnspit Dog vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  7. Pomeranian vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  8. Pug vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  9. Papillon vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  10. Rat Terrier vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  11. Scottish Terrier vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  12. PekePoo vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  13. Patterdale Terrier vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Norwich Terrier vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  15. Norfolk Terrier vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  16. Parson Russell Terrier vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  17. Russell Terrier vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  18. Schipperke vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  19. Portuguese Podengo vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  20. Schweenie vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  21. Schnorkie vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  22. Sealyham Terrier vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  23. Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  24. Russian Spaniel vs Miniature Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  25. Miniature Siberian Husky vs Maltese - 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