Shetland Sheepdog vs Vizsla

Herding · Small vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Vizsla is the larger breed at 55–60 lbs (males) vs 15–25 lbs for the Shetland Sheepdog.
  • The Vizsla has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Vizsla sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitShetland SheepdogVizsla
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
ScotlandHungary
Height (male)
13–16"22–24"
Height (female)
13–16"21–23"
Weight (male)
15–25 lbs55–60 lbs
Weight (female)
15–25 lbs44–55 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Vizsla

The Vizsla is an affectionate, energetic, gentle Hungarian pointer — the original 'velcro dog' that needs constant company. Originally from Hungary, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 55–60 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, energetic, gentle.

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Shetland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Vizsla health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism