Gordon Sheltie vs. Docker: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Gordon Shelties or Dockers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Gordon Sheltie nor Docker are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Gordon Sheltie and Docker dogs?

Playful
Alert
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Loyal
Lively
Gentle
Fearless
Eager

Loyal
Affectionate

Shedding Level

Do Gordon Shelties shed more than Dockers, or which breed sheds more, Gordon Shelties or Dockers?

3 / 5

Gordon Sheltie or Docker dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Gordon Sheltie or Docker. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Gordon Sheltie and Docker breeds?

Gordon Setter and Shetland Sheepdog

Dachshund and Cocker Spaniel

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Gordon Sheltie and Docker?

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Not recognized by any clubs.

Date of Birth

When were Gordon Sheltie and Docker breeds first developed?

Unknown

1999

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Gordon Sheltie and Docker dogs?

Blue
Brown

Hazel
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Gordon Sheltie and Docker?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Gordon Sheltie and Docker breeds?

Black
Brown
White
Pied

Black
Brown
White
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Gordon Sheltie and Docker breeds?

5 / 5

Gordon Shelties are known for their coat length.

3 / 5

Dockers have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Gordon Sheltie and Docker?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Gordon Sheltie and Docker?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Gordon Sheltie and Docker?

A Gordon Sheltie can have a litter of 6-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Docker can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Gordon Shelties are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

3 / 5

Dockers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Gordon Sheltie and Docker, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Gordon Sheltie and Docker breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Gordon Sheltie and Docker breeds?

Gastric Torsion
Hip Dysplasia

Retinal Dysplasia
Seborrhea
Color Dilution Alopecia
Acanthosis Nigricans

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Gordon Sheltie and Docker?

Hypothyroidism
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Entropion
Ectropion
Lip Fold Pyoderma
Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Gordon Sheltie and Docker breeds?

X-Rays
Urinalysis
Serum Chemistry
Complete Blood Count
Free Thyroxine (T4) Levels
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Levels

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Ultrasound

Social Needs

Gordon Sheltie vs Docker social needs comparison

4 / 5

Gordon Sheltie and Docker have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Gordon Sheltie or Docker?

2 / 5

Gordon Shelties sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

3 / 5

Dockers have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Gordon Sheltie vs Docker?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Roaming urge

Gordon Sheltie vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Prey Drive

Gordon Sheltie or Docker - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Gordon Shelties or Dockers?

Gordon Shelties are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Dockers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Gordon Sheltie or Docker walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Gordon Sheltie, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Docker, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Gordon Shelties or Dockers require more exercise?

Both Gordon Sheltie and Docker typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Gordon Shelties or Dockers?

5 / 5

Gordon Shelties have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

3 / 5

The Docker requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Gordon Sheltie and Docker dogs?

Gordon Sheltie should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Ideally, Docker should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Gordon Shelties and Dockers?

Pin Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Gordon Sheltie or Docker in cups?

For an average 55-80 pound (25 - 36 kg) Gordon Sheltie feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 25-30 pound (11 - 14 kg) Docker feed 2 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Gordon Sheltie or Docker?

The average cost of a Gordon Sheltie is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

The average cost of a Docker is somewhere $2.10 - $2.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Gordon Sheltie or Docker?

The average per month expenses of a Gordon Sheltie is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Docker is between $63 - $84. This makes an average of $756 - $1008 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Gordon Sheltie and Docker compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Gordon Sheltie or Docker?

2 / 5

Gordon Shelties can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

3 / 5

Dockers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Gordon Shelties or Dockers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Gordon Shelties make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

3 / 5

Dockers have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Gordon Sheltie or Docker?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Gordon Sheltie or Docker breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Gordon Shelties are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

1 / 5

Dockers are not cat friendly.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Gordon Sheltie or Docker?

3 / 5

{Gordon Shelties and Dockers are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Gordon Sheltie or Docker dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

1 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Gordon Sheltie or Docker?

3 / 5

Gordon Shelties are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

2 / 5

Dockers are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Gordon Sheltie and Docker?

4 / 5

Gordon Sheltie and Docker are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Gordon Sheltie and Docker is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Gordon Shelties and Dockers compare?

4 / 5

Gordon Sheltie and Docker dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.