Croatian Sheepdog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison

The Yorkshire terrier originated in Yorkshire which is a place in northern England. In mid 19th century workers from Scotland came to Yorkshire in search for work. They brought different varieties of small terriers with them. Earlier they are known as Broken Haired Scotch Terrier and then Toy Terrier. In 1874 they were officially named as Yorkshire Terrier. They begun their journey as hunting dogs and later developed as companion dogs. AKC registered the breed in 1878.

Known also as Hrvatski Ovkars, the black Croatian Sheepdog has been in Croatia since the 7th century already. He was brought to the region by Croats who wanted a strong working dog.

Over the centuries, the dog hasn’t changed much in looks, and in 1935 a breeding program for the dog was developed. A certain Dr. Romic started the program with 3 dogs, and the work he did with the dogs saw that the Croatian Sheepdog got official recognition a few decades later.

In March 1968, the Yugoslav Kennel Club adopted the breed standard, and since then, several kennels recognize the Croatian Sheepdog. The dog is still not known particularly well outside their own county, but in Croatia it is essentially known as a companion dog.

Yorkshire terriers are one of the glamorous member of the dog breeds. They have excellent personality as their owner will be surely proud of them when taking them in public. They like to go outside and make adventures. They are good companion dogs and watch dogs too. They are very affectionate with their owners. Yorkies always bark when any stranger comes and they should be taught about neighbours and when to bark. They will get angry on seeing new dogs and surely chases squirrels.

They like to spend more time with their people. Leaving them alone for long time is not good. Yorkshire terrier should be treated gently and with love. They love to spend time with older children. They love apartment life if they are made to play and walk daily. Yorkies are the second most popular dog in America.

The Croatian Sheepdog is a medium sized, muscular dog which stands roughly 40 – 53cm at the withers and weighs 13 to 20kg. The head is wedge shaped and lean and he has brown to black colored eyes.

The triangular-shaped ears are medium sized and semi-erect or erect. The tail of the dog is often docked, but if not it is set high and is inclined to curl over the back.

The dog is nearly always black although you’ll find a few white hairs on the throat or chest or on the legs and toes. The double coat is of medium length, being wavy or even slightly curly.

Temperament:

The Croatian Sheepdog is an athletic, alert dog and he has high energy levels, loving to be put to work or to be busy with one or other activity. He fits in well as a family pet and gets on well with children and pets in the home, but he is going to need plenty of exercise and games.

This particular dog won’t do well with a family of couch potatoes as he craves lots of activities. He will certainly benefit from training and socialization, and because he is intelligent he learns easily and then he is obedient and ready to please.

He is a dominant, confident dog who thrives on attention from his human family. He isn’t a dog you can just stick in the backyard as he is social and craves activity and attention. He is wary of strangers and makes an excellent watchdog.

Children friendliness

Yorkshire terrier are not so much friendly with children. It is not advised to leave them with children without adult supervision.

Special talents

They were previously used to catch rats and hunt badger and fox. They are excellent watchdogs and defend their territory very well.

Adaptability

They adapts well for apartment living. But they will not be happy if leaved alone for a long time. Yorkies cannot tolerate too hot or cold weather.

Learning ability

They are moderately easy to train. Yorkshire terrier should be trained early when they are amenable to process. Sessions should be conducted with lots of treats and must be short as they will easily get bored.

The Croatian Sheepdog isn’t a demanding dog, although he will be relying on you to give him plenty of exercise. He wants to please and will fit into life in the city or life in the country, so long as he gets regular exercise.

It doesn’t take much to keep the Croatian Sheepdog happy and content, and when he thrusts his wet nose into your hand and you see his wagging tail, you’ll know its all been worth it to give this pet the best as he gives you his undivided love and loyalty.

Yorkshire terrier have possibilities of having hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and von willebrand's disease.

Hair fall

Usually yorkies don't shed more. They have long, silky and straight hair. They should be made to bath weekly once.

The Croatian Sheepdog is a healthy dog breed. He is the kind of pet that won’t cost you a lot of money because he is low maintenance. In fact he is a dog which has developed resistance to many diseases.

With good food, exercise and love and care he won’t cost you much in terms of vet’s fees. He can live to be 12 to 15 years of age.

Even though he is a healthy kind of dog, there are some dog illnesses that you will want to be aware of such as bloat and eye problems. Also if you aren’t going to let him become a parent, then spaying or neutering your Croatian Shepherd will have numerous health benefits for him.

Feeding the puppy

For English bull dog puppies, When you change the puppy food from liquid to solid initially you must give what the dam is having. This is to avoid digestive problems when new food is introduced. The level of liquid food should be reduced in a step by step manner and thus increasing solid food gradually.

Feeding the adult

You have two choices and one is manufactured dog food and another is home cooked food. Commercial brands are not suggested as they contain artificial coloring and chemical preservatives.

Points for Good Health

Vaccinations should be made at the right time. The food given should be the best.

Games and Exercises

Yorkshire terrier should be taught tricks by giving rewards. Exercising them has benefits such as maintaining muscles, release pent-up energy, good for heart, good metabolism, good sleep and be active.

The Croatian Sheepdog has always been a working dog and is regarded as a hardy, low maintenance dog. He will require minimal grooming so a good brush twice a week will suffice.

Diet:

There are excellent and convenient dog foods on the market which have been specifically manufactured to ensure your dog gets all the vitamins and minerals he needs for health and energy. Stick to the feeding instructions on the label so that he maintains his lean, muscular body.

Raw meat can be expensive, but it will be to his benefit if you can include some raw meat into his kibble every now and then. If you are unsure in any way as to how to feed your dog, your vet can give you good advice on a food that caters for his age and his activity levels. Always make sure that he has a fresh bowl of water available.