Lakeland Terrier vs Shetland Sheepdog

Terrier · Small vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Shetland Sheepdog is the larger breed at 15–25 lbs (males) vs 17 lbs for the Lakeland Terrier.
  • The Lakeland Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Lakeland Terrier sheds less.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLakeland TerrierShetland Sheepdog
Group
TerrierHerding
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandScotland
Height (male)
14–15"13–16"
Height (female)
14–15"13–16"
Weight (male)
17 lbs15–25 lbs
Weight (female)
17 lbs15–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 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.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)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.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Lakeland Terrier

The Lakeland Terrier is a bold, friendly, confident terrier from England's Lake District — fox-hunter with a square jaw. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, friendly, confident.

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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Lakeland Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye problems
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes

Shetland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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