Which is Better between the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog? A Very Detailed Review.

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Labradoodle Versus Shetland Sheepdog: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Labradoodle and for the Shetland Sheepdog. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Labradoodle or the Shetland Sheepdog.

Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog

Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog: Overview

A very important difference between the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Labradoodle is a large-sized dog while the Shetland Sheepdog is a small-sized dog.

Furthermore, the Labradoodle belongs to the Hybrid Dogs group. Hybrid Dogs are the offspring of 2 or more known, but different, dog breeds.

On the other hand, the Shetland Sheepdog belongs to the Herding Dogs group. Herding Dogs were bred for moving livestock, including sheep, cattle, and even reindeer. Herding dogs work closely with their human shepherds, and their natural intelligence and responsiveness make them highly trainable. They have high levels of energy, which needs to be channeled properly to prevent destructive behavior. Herding breeds are protective of their people and property and make excellent watchdogs. Their intelligence, agility, and activity level make them well suited to dog sports.

Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Labradoodle to the Shetland Sheepdog based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog

Factor Labradoodle Shetland Sheepdog
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Does NOT chew on things 5/5 5/5
Life Span 12 to 14 years 12 to 15 years
Low Prey Drive 4/5 3/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 4/5 2/5
Height 21 to 24 inches at the shoulder 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 3/5 2/5
Easygoing 3/5 1/5
Does NOT Shed 3/5 1/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 3/5 3/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 3/5 4/5
Good For Novice Owners 4/5 3/5
Tolerates Being Alone 4/5 2/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 4/5 3/5
Kid-Friendly 4/5 5/5
Easy To Groom 4/5 2/5
General Health 4/5 4/5
Easy To Train 4/5 5/5
Intelligence 4/5 5/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 2/5 4/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 5/5 4/5
Affectionate With Family 5/5 5/5
Dog Friendly 5/5 4/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 5/5 5/5
NOT Rambunctious 1/5 2/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 1/5 2/5
Potential For Playfulness 5/5 4/5
Weight 50 to 65 pounds Starts at 20 pounds
Average Lifespan 13.0 years 13.5 years
Average Price $1640 $1590
Price Range $1000 – $2000 $1000 – $2000
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests No Data
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Dentition
  • Eye Examination- Recommend evaluation every year until age 5, every 2 years thereafter until age 9.
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Labradoodle in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Shetland Sheepdog. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Labradoodle is 94 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Shetland Sheepdog is 85 out of 125.

    Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Labradoodle is a better pet than the Shetland Sheepdog. So, you should get the Labradoodle!

    Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

    Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog

    The Similarities Between the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog

    The Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are most similar:

  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are not prone to nip and chew at things.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are good for new dog owners.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog can tolerate hot weather.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are very healthy. They do not suffer from a lot of health problems compared to other dog breeds
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are very easy to train.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are very friendly towards strangers.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
  • Both the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog are very playful.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog.

    Labradoodles weigh 50 to 65 pounds when fully grown. Labradoodles are 21 to 24 inches at the shoulder when fully grown.

    On the other hand, Shetland Sheepdogs weigh Starts at 20 pounds when fully grown. Shetland Sheepdogs are 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog

    The lifespan of Labradoodles is between 12 to 14 years. The average lifespan of Labradoodles is 13.0 years.

    The lifespan of Shetland Sheepdogs is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Shetland Sheepdogs is 13.5 years.

    Shetland Sheepdogs live longer than Labradoodles.

    Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog

    Price of Labradoodle versus Price of Shetland Sheepdog

    The average price of the Labradoodle puppy is $1640. The price of the Labradoodle typically ranges from $1000 – $2000. However, the price of a Labradoodle can be as low as $250 and as high as $5850. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 2360 Labradoodle puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Shetland Sheepdog puppy is $1590. The price of the Shetland Sheepdog typically ranges from $1000 – $2000. However, the price of the Shetland Sheepdog can be as low as $500 and as high as $3145. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 153 Shetland Sheepdog puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Labradoodle is more expensive than the Shetland Sheepdog.

    Labradoodle Shetland Sheepdog
    Average Price $1640 $1590
    Price Range $1000 to $2000 $1000 to $2000

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Labradoodle and Shetland Sheepdog. For different price points, the charts show how many Labradoodle puppies or how many Shetland Sheepdog puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Labradoodles. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Labradoodles. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Shetland Sheepdogs

    A breakdown of the prices of Shetland Sheepdogs

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Labradoodle puppy or the Shetland Sheepdog puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog

    Adopting the Labradoodle versus Adopting the Shetland Sheepdog

    You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Labradoodles and many Shetland Sheepdogs are currently available for adoption.

    These adorable and cute dogs are waiting in dog shelters hoping that someday someone will rescue them. Furthermore, adoption costs are lesser than the cost of a new puppy. Dog adoption costs are usually around $300. In addition to your local dog shelter, a good place online to see dogs that are available for adoption is petfinder.com.

    Below is an adorable Male Labradoodle named Albert that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Labradoodles like Albert on pefinder.com.

    Also, like Labradoodles, Shetland Sheepdogs are also available for adoption. For example, Cisco is a Male Shetland Sheepdog that is currently available for adoption on petfinder.com. You can find more Shetland Sheepdogs like Cisco that are up for adoption on petfinder.com.

    The Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog can both be adopted. Images from petfinder.com

    Fynn-Oh is the name of another Labradoodle (Male) on petfinder.com that is looking for a new home.

    Also, Rocky is an adorable Male Shetland Sheepdog on petfinder.com that you can adopt.

    Labradoodles and Shetland Sheepdogs are always available for adoption. Images from petfinder.com

    You can find more Labradoodles and Shetland Sheepdogs that are available for adoption on petfinder.

    Tolerates Being Alone: Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog

    Labradoodles can be left alone for some time without problems.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do not like to be left alone.

    Do Labradoodles shed more than Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Labradoodles shed moderately.

    Shetland Sheepdogs shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Which one drools more, the Labradoodle or the Shetland Sheepdog

    Labradoodles do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Labradoodle or the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Labradoodles are very easy to groom.

    Shetland Sheepdogs require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.

    Does the Labradoodle Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Labradoodles have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Shetland Sheepdogs have a moderate prey drive. They can sometimes chase after smaller animals and pets.

    Do Labradoodles Bark and Howl? What about Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Labradoodles are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.

    Can Labradoodles Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Shetland Sheepdogs Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Labradoodles can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Shetland Sheepdogs can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Labradoodle vs. Shetland Sheepdog

    Labradoodles have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.

    Can Labradoodles Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Shetland Sheepdogs Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Labradoodles can tolerate hot weather.

    Shetland Sheepdogs can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Labradoodle or the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Labradoodles get along very well with other dogs.

    Shetland Sheepdogs get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Labradoodles good family dogs? What about Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Labradoodles are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    How Kid-friendly are Labradoodles and Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Labradoodles get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Shetland Sheepdogs get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Is the Labradoodle Easier to Train than the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Labradoodles are very easy to train.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are very easy to train.

    Is the Labradoodle Better for Apartment Owners than the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Labradoodles adapt moderately well to apartment living.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Labradoodle or the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Labradoodles are very good for new dog owners.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are OK for new dog owners.

    Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Labradoodle

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Labradoodle that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Labradoodle:

  • Goldendoodle (78 percent match with Labradoodle). Here is our comparison of the Shetland Sheepdog vs Goldendoodle.
  • Goldador (85 percent match with Labradoodle). Here is our comparison of the Shetland Sheepdog vs Goldador.
  • French Spaniel (78 percent match with Labradoodle). Here is our comparison of the Shetland Sheepdog vs French Spaniel.
  • Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Shetland Sheepdog

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Shetland Sheepdog that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Shetland Sheepdog:

  • Collie (81 percent match with Shetland Sheepdog). Here is our comparison of the Labradoodle vs Collie.
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi (79 percent match with Shetland Sheepdog). Here is our comparison of the Labradoodle vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

    You may also be interested in how the Labradoodle and how the Shetland Sheepdog compares to other breeds. So, see below the comparison of the Labradoodle and of the Shetland Sheepdog to other breeds:

    Labradoodle Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Labradoodle versus Harrier     Labradoodle versus Berger Picard     Labradoodle versus Doberman Pinscher     Labradoodle versus Maltese     Labradoodle versus Redbone Coonhound     Labradoodle versus Chinese Shar-Pei     Labradoodle versus Boerboel     Labradoodle versus Chihuahua     Labradoodle versus Pyredoodle     Labradoodle versus Pekingese     Labradoodle versus Bergamasco Sheepdog     Labradoodle versus English Setter     Labradoodle versus Chow Chow     Labradoodle versus Great Pyrenees     Labradoodle versus Spanish Mastiff     Labradoodle versus Rhodesian Ridgeback     Labradoodle versus Cairn Terrier     Labradoodle versus Rottweiler     Labradoodle versus Cocker Spaniel     Labradoodle versus Entlebucher Mountain Dog     Labradoodle versus Bergamasco Sheepdog     Labradoodle versus Bolognese     Labradoodle versus Black Mouth Cur     Labradoodle versus Saluki     Labradoodle versus Border Collie     

    Shetland Sheepdog Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Shetland Sheepdog versus Greater Swiss Mountain Dog     Shetland Sheepdog versus Bernedoodle     Shetland Sheepdog versus Whippet     Shetland Sheepdog versus Patterdale Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Lhasapoo     Shetland Sheepdog versus Border Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Basset Hound     Shetland Sheepdog versus American Staffordshire Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus French Spaniel     Shetland Sheepdog versus Lhasapoo     Shetland Sheepdog versus Kai Ken     Shetland Sheepdog versus American Water Spaniel     Shetland Sheepdog versus Alaskan Malamute     Shetland Sheepdog versus Morkie     Shetland Sheepdog versus American Pit Bull Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Maltipoo     Shetland Sheepdog versus Collie     Shetland Sheepdog versus Sloughi     Shetland Sheepdog versus Chi-Poo     Shetland Sheepdog versus Rhodesian Ridgeback     Shetland Sheepdog versus English Setter     Shetland Sheepdog versus Cavalier King Charles Spaniel     Shetland Sheepdog versus Great Pyrenees     Shetland Sheepdog versus Jack Russell Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Chow Chow     

    Conclusion: Labradoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Labradoodle and the Shetland Sheepdog better suits you and your family.