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Compare Havanese and Shetland Sheepdog side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level

Playfulness

Intelligence

Trainability

Protectiveness

Sociability

Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly

Yes

Good with kids

Yes

Good for first-time owners

Yes

Shedding

Noise level

Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span

12–15 years

12–14 years

Weight

4.5–8.1 kg

6–12 kg

Height

23–30 cm

33–41 cm

Origin

Cuba

Scotland

Grooming effort

Nutrition sensitivity

Health risk

Heat tolerance

Cold tolerance

The Shetland Sheepdog and Havanese are both popular breeds known for their friendly nature and suitability for families. The Shetland Sheepdog, originating from Scotland, is slightly larger and has a higher energy level compared to the Havanese, which hails from Cuba. While both breeds are intelligent and trainable, the Shetland Sheepdog excels in trainability and intelligence, making it a good choice for active owners seeking a dog that can learn commands quickly. The Havanese, being smaller and with a lower energy level, may be more suitable for those living in apartments or looking for a less demanding pet. Both breeds are good with children and first-time owners, but they differ in their sociability and protectiveness, with the Havanese being more sociable and the Shetland Sheepdog showing moderate protectiveness.

Havanese — Advantages

Smaller weight range (4.5-8.1 kg) makes it suitable for apartments
More sociable (5), great for families and social settings
Lower exercise need (3) for less active owners
Lower shedding level (2) for easier maintenance
Good with kids and first-time owners

Disadvantages

Lower trainability score (4) compared to Shetland Sheepdog
Less protectiveness (2) may not suit those wanting a guard dog
Lower climate tolerance in cold weather (2)

Shetland Sheepdog — Advantages

Higher trainability score (5)
Better intelligence score (5)
Higher exercise need (4) for active owners
Good climate tolerance in cold weather (4)
Good with kids and first-time owners

Disadvantages

Higher weight range (6-12 kg) may not suit all owners
Moderate protectiveness (3) might not be ideal for those seeking a more social dog
Can stay alone for a moderate time (3)