Greyhound vs Shetland Sheepdog

Hound · Large vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Greyhound is the larger breed at 65–70 lbs (males) vs 15–25 lbs for the Shetland Sheepdog.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Shetland Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Greyhound sheds less.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreyhoundShetland Sheepdog
Group
HoundHerding
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
EgyptScotland
Height (male)
28–30"13–16"
Height (female)
27–28"13–16"
Weight (male)
65–70 lbs15–25 lbs
Weight (female)
60–65 lbs15–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)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.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Greyhound

The Greyhound is a gentle, independent, noble sighthound — the fastest dog (45 mph) and biggest couch potato off-track. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 65–70 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, independent, noble.

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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Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Shetland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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