Cockapoo vs Shetland Sheepdog

Miscellaneous · Small vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Shetland Sheepdog is the larger breed at 15–25 lbs (males) vs 12–24 lbs for the Cockapoo.
  • The Cockapoo typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Cockapoo sheds less.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCockapooShetland Sheepdog
Group
MiscellaneousHerding
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
USAScotland
Height (male)
10–15"13–16"
Height (female)
10–15"13–16"
Weight (male)
12–24 lbs15–25 lbs
Weight (female)
12–24 lbs15–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–16 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)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
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a people-loving, intelligent, low-shed Cocker Spaniel × Poodle hybrid — smaller doodle, apartment-sized. Originally from USA, this small miscellaneous breed typically weighs 12–24 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as people-loving, intelligent, easygoing.

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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Cockapoo health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders
  • Hip dysplasia

Shetland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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