Brittany vs Shetland Sheepdog

Sporting · Medium vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Brittany is the larger breed at 30–40 lbs (males) vs 15–25 lbs for the Shetland Sheepdog.
  • The Brittany has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Brittany sheds less.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBrittanyShetland Sheepdog
Group
SportingHerding
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
FranceScotland
Height (male)
17.5–20.5"13–16"
Height (female)
17.5–20.5"13–16"
Weight (male)
30–40 lbs15–25 lbs
Weight (female)
30–40 lbs15–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Brittany

The Brittany is a bright, fun-loving, upbeat pointer-spaniel hybrid — energetic, athletic gundog and lively companion. Originally from France, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 30–40 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, upbeat.

About the Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is a bright, playful, energetic miniature Collie from the windswept Shetland Islands — keenly intelligent. Originally from Scotland, this small herding breed typically weighs 15–25 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as bright, playful, energetic.

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Brittany health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism

Shetland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Collie eye anomaly
  • MDR1 gene mutation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism