Havanese vs Shetland Sheepdog

Which dog breed is right for you?

Havanese

Size
7–13 lbs, 9–12 in
Lifespan
14–16 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Outgoing Funny Intelligent Affectionate

Shetland Sheepdog

Size
15–25 lbs, 13–16 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Intelligent Eager Gentle Responsive

About the Havanese

The Havanese — Cuba's only native breed — descended from the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana and was the cherished lapdog of Havana's aristocracy for centuries before Cuban refugees brought them to America in the 1960s. Standing 8.5–11.5 inches tall and weighing 7–13 pounds, these small but sturdy dogs have a long, silky, lightweight coat that comes in every color imaginable — including white, cream, gold, black, silver, chocolate, and various parti-color combinations. Their coat is designed to insulate against tropical heat rather than cold, giving it a uniquely airy, flowing quality.

Temperament & Personality

Havanese are cheerful, outgoing, and deeply people-oriented — natural entertainers who thrive on being the center of attention. They are remarkably adaptable and sociable, getting along effortlessly with children, other dogs, cats, and even strangers who receive a warm, tail-wagging welcome. Their playful, clownish nature and expressive faces make them exceptional companion dogs — they're sometimes called "velcro dogs" for their habit of following their owners everywhere.

Pros

  • Low-shedding coat is well-suited for allergy-sensitive households
  • Excellent with children and other pets — gentle, patient, and playful
  • Highly trainable and eager to please — respond well to positive reinforcement
  • Adaptable to any living situation — equally happy in apartments or homes with yards

Cons

  • Long coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent matting
  • Prone to severe separation anxiety — can become destructive or develop excessive barking when left alone
  • Susceptible to patellar luxation, cataracts, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
  • Can be difficult to housebreak — small bladder and sensitive temperament complicate training

Bring the sunshine of Havana into your home — find Havanese dogs waiting for families on Puplister.

About the Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog — or "Sheltie" — was developed on Scotland's remote Shetland Islands, where harsh conditions favored smaller, efficient herding dogs that could thrive on limited resources. Standing 13 to 16 inches tall and weighing 15 to 25 pounds, Shelties resemble a miniature Rough Collie but are a distinct breed with their own standard and lineage. Their abundant double coat features a long, straight outer layer and dense undercoat, coming in sable, black, and blue merle — all typically with white and tan markings.

Temperament & Personality

Shetland Sheepdogs are incredibly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please — consistently ranked among the top 10 most trainable dog breeds in the world. They are devoted to their families and particularly gentle with children, often forming an especially strong bond with one household member. Shelties can be reserved with strangers and may bark to alert their family, but their sensitivity and willingness to learn make them wonderful companions for patient, attentive owners.

Pros

  • Exceptionally intelligent — excels in agility, obedience, and herding competitions
  • Gentle, affectionate, and outstanding with children
  • Compact size with all the beauty and grace of a Collie
  • Loyal and deeply bonded to their family

Cons

  • Heavy shedding — the dense double coat requires frequent brushing and sheds year-round
  • Prone to excessive barking, especially when excited or alerting
  • Susceptible to Collie eye anomaly, hip dysplasia, and dermatomyositis
  • Can be timid and fearful without proper early socialization

Shelties combine beauty, brains, and devotion in one elegant package — explore Shetland Sheepdog adoption options on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

5

Havaneses

Browse

5

Shetland Sheepdogs

Browse

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Havanese and a Shetland Sheepdog?
The Havanese is 7–13 lbs, 9–12 in sized while the Shetland Sheepdog is 15–25 lbs, 13–16 in sized. They differ in size (7–13 lbs, 9–12 in vs 15–25 lbs, 13–16 in), lifespan (14–16 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Havanese or Shetland Sheepdog?
Havanese is generally good with kids. Shetland Sheepdog is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Havanese or Shetland Sheepdog?
The Havanese has a lifespan of 14–16 years while the Shetland Sheepdog has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Dogs