Breed Comparison: Pomsky Versus Shetland Sheepdog

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Pomsky Versus Shetland Sheepdog: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Pomsky 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 Pomsky 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 Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Pomsky 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 Pomsky 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 Pomsky 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 Pomsky or the Shetland Sheepdog.

Pomsky versus Shetland Sheepdog: Overview

Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are similar in size. The Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are both small-sized dogs.

Furthermore, the Pomsky belongs to the Mixed Breed Dogs group. Mixed Breed Dogs are not purebred dogs.

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.

Pomsky versus Shetland Sheepdog: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Pomsky 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 Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog

Factor Pomsky Shetland Sheepdog
Tolerates Being Alone 1/5 2/5
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Height 10 to 15 inches 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder
Life Span 12 to 15 years 12 to 15 years
Good For Novice Owners 2/5 3/5
Kid-Friendly 2/5 5/5
Easy To Groom 2/5 2/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 4/5 4/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 4/5 4/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 3/5 3/5
Dog Friendly 3/5 4/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 3/5 5/5
General Health 3/5 4/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 3/5 3/5
Easy To Train 3/5 5/5
Does NOT chew on things 3/5 5/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 3/5 2/5
Easygoing 2/5 1/5
Does NOT Shed 2/5 1/5
Intelligence 4/5 5/5
Low Prey Drive 2/5 3/5
NOT Rambunctious 2/5 2/5
Potential For Playfulness 4/5 4/5
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 5/5 2/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 5/5 4/5
Affectionate With Family 5/5 5/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 1/5 2/5
Weight 7 to 38 pounds Starts at 20 pounds
Average Lifespan 13.5 years 13.5 years
Average Price $2270 $1590
Price Range $1500 – $2995 $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 Pomsky 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 Pomsky is 76 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Shetland Sheepdog is 85 out of 125.

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

    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 Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog

    Below is a list of where the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are most different:

  • Pomskys do not get along well with kids. They are not kid-friendly. However, Shetland Sheepdogs get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Pomskys adapt well to apartment living. However, Shetland Sheepdogs do not adapt well to apartment living.
  • The Similarities Between the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog

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

  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are not the best dogs for new dog owners.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog require a lot of grooming and are not very easy to groom.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog do the things they do with very low vigor. They are not forceful.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog have a high prey drive. They do not get along well with other pets.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are very playful.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Pomsky versus Shetland Sheepdog

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

    Pomskys weigh 7 to 38 pounds when fully grown. Pomskys are 10 to 15 inches 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 Pomsky versus Shetland Sheepdog

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

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

    Price of Pomsky versus Price of Shetland Sheepdog

    The average price of the Pomsky puppy is $2270. The price of the Pomsky typically ranges from $1500 – $2995. However, the price of a Pomsky can be as low as $500 and as high as $7000. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 823 Pomsky 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 Pomsky is more expensive than the Shetland Sheepdog.

    Pomsky Shetland Sheepdog
    Average Price $2270 $1590
    Price Range $1500 to $2995 $1000 to $2000

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

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

    A breakdown of the prices of Pomskys. 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 Pomsky 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.

    Adopting the Pomsky versus Adopting the Shetland Sheepdog

    You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Pomskys 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 Pomsky named Asher that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Pomskys like Asher on pefinder.com.

    Also, like Pomskys, Shetland Sheepdogs are also available for adoption. For example, ~Courtesy~Simon And Shu Shu is a Male Shetland Sheepdog that is currently available for adoption on petfinder.com. You can find more Shetland Sheepdogs like ~Courtesy~Simon And Shu Shu that are up for adoption on petfinder.com.

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

    Starsky is the name of another Pomsky (Male) on petfinder.com that is looking for a new home.

    Also, Nash (In Foster) is an adorable Male Shetland Sheepdog on petfinder.com that you can adopt.

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

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

    Tolerates Being Alone: Pomsky versus Shetland Sheepdog

    Pomskys do not like to be left alone.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do not like to be left alone.

    Do Pomskys shed more than Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Pomskys shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

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

    Which one drools more, the Pomsky or the Shetland Sheepdog

    Pomskys do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do have a very low tendency to drool.

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

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

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

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

    Pomskys have a high prey drive. They have the tendency to chase after smaller animals and pets. They do not get along well with other pets.

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

    Do Pomskys Bark and Howl? What about Shetland Sheepdogs?

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

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

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

    Pomskys can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Shetland Sheepdogs can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Pomsky vs. Shetland Sheepdog

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

    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 Pomskys Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Shetland Sheepdogs Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Pomskys can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

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

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

    Pomskys get along fairly well with other dogs.

    Shetland Sheepdogs get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Pomskys good family dogs? What about Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Pomskys 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 Pomskys and Shetland Sheepdogs?

    Pomskys do not get along well with kids. They are not kid-friendly.

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

    Is the Pomsky Easier to Train than the Shetland Sheepdog?

    Pomskys are fairly easy to train.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are very easy to train.

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

    Pomskys adapt very well to apartment living.

    Shetland Sheepdogs do not adapt well to apartment living.

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

    Pomskys are not the best dogs for new dog owners.

    Shetland Sheepdogs are OK for new dog owners.

    Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Pomsky

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Pomsky 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 Pomsky:

  • Pomeranian (78 percent match with Pomsky). Here is our comparison of the Shetland Sheepdog vs Pomeranian.
  • 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 Pomsky vs Collie.
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi (79 percent match with Shetland Sheepdog). Here is our comparison of the Pomsky vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

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

    Pomsky Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Pomsky versus Bordoodle     Pomsky versus Xoloitzcuintli     Pomsky versus Chinese Crested     Pomsky versus Chorkie     Pomsky versus Cane Corso     Pomsky versus Boxerdoodle     Pomsky versus Borzoi     Pomsky versus American Water Spaniel     Pomsky versus Brittany     Pomsky versus Norfolk Terrier     Pomsky versus Bolognese     Pomsky versus Norwich Terrier     Pomsky versus Shihpoo     Pomsky versus Standard Poodle     Pomsky versus Cockalier     Pomsky versus Appenzeller Sennenhunde     Pomsky versus Goldendoodle     Pomsky versus Akita Chow     Pomsky versus Irish Wolfhound     Pomsky versus Stabyhoun     Pomsky versus Papillon     Pomsky versus Cocker Spaniel     Pomsky versus Chow Chow     Pomsky versus English Toy Spaniel     Pomsky versus Frenchton     

    Shetland Sheepdog Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Shetland Sheepdog versus Miniature Pinscher     Shetland Sheepdog versus Bordoodle     Shetland Sheepdog versus Entlebucher Mountain Dog     Shetland Sheepdog versus Mountain Cur     Shetland Sheepdog versus Chihuahua     Shetland Sheepdog versus King Shepherd     Shetland Sheepdog versus Standard Poodle     Shetland Sheepdog versus Swedish Vallhund     Shetland Sheepdog versus Kerry Blue Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Basset Fauve de Bretagne     Shetland Sheepdog versus Afador     Shetland Sheepdog versus Silky Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Curly-Coated Retriever     Shetland Sheepdog versus Black Russian Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus American Staffordshire Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Lhasapoo     Shetland Sheepdog versus Toy Fox Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Saluki     Shetland Sheepdog versus Dutch Shepherd     Shetland Sheepdog versus Peek A Poo     Shetland Sheepdog versus Bracco Italiano     Shetland Sheepdog versus Xoloitzcuintli     Shetland Sheepdog versus Coton de Tulear     Shetland Sheepdog versus Boston Terrier     Shetland Sheepdog versus Bichon Frise     

    Conclusion: Pomsky 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 Pomsky and the Shetland Sheepdog better suits you and your family.