Shetland Sheepdog vs Weimaraner

Herding · Small vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Weimaraner is the larger breed at 70–90 lbs (males) vs 15–25 lbs for the Shetland Sheepdog.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Weimaraner has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Weimaraner sheds less.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitShetland SheepdogWeimaraner
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
ScotlandGermany
Height (male)
13–16"25–27"
Height (female)
13–16"23–25"
Weight (male)
15–25 lbs70–90 lbs
Weight (female)
15–25 lbs55–75 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years11–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
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 Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a friendly, fearless, obedient gundog with a striking silver-grey coat — the 'grey ghost' from Germany. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 70–90 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, fearless, obedient.

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Shetland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Weimaraner health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Von Willebrand's disease