Shetland Sheepdog – An incessant multi-tasker
How to sucessfully own and care for a Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Introduction
The Shetland Sheepdog, commonly known as the Sheltie, is a lively and intelligent dog always wants to be 'on the go' and is virtually tireless. They are loyal, affectionate and eager to please, making for a wonderful companion dog. Although Shelties are ideal dogs for families with children due to their laid back personality, they can be a little reserved or even shy around strangers. They have a protective nature, and are quick to bark if they sense that their territory has been invaded. Though primarily even-tempered, they can become nervous if not provided with enough stimulation: this is a breed that needs to be kept busy. Originally bred to be a cattle/sheep dog, the Sheltie still retains a strong herding instinct. They love to chase and try to 'herd' squirrels, rabbits and even children. This habit should be discouraged, especially with children, because it can lead to nipping and biting.
Free Online Workshop On Dog Training
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Will a Shetland Sheepdog be a suitable dog for my family?
- Yes, if you want a small to medium sized dog (12-65lbs)
- As long as you have at least a small back yard (less than half an acre) for your dog to run in
- It doesn't matter whether your back yard is securely fenced or not
- If you are able to spend at least 45-60 minutes to 1-2 hours total per day for the feeding, exercising, training, and grooming of your dog
- You want a dog with a double coat
- Your preference is for a dog that only sheds twice a year
- You have infants or young children in the house
- Ideally you'd like a dog that's active in specific area (e.g. hunting, flyball, or agility)
- Your preference is for a dog that's easy to train
- Yes, if you want a dog that will bark to warn you of odd noises or strangers
- The Shetland Sheepdog is great choice for the first time dog owner
Shetland Sheepdog Stat Chart
Rating System:
Ease of training: 1 is hard to train, 5 is easy
Ease of grooming: 1 is hard to groom, 5 is easy
Sociability: 1 is not social, 5 is very social
Guarding: 1 is not a good guard dog, 5 is very good guard dog
Suitable for Apartments: 1 is not suitable, 5 is very suitable
Noisiness: 1 is quiet, 5 is loud
Biting and Nipping: 1 is doesn’t nip/bite, 5 high chance of biting/nipping
Energy Level: 1 is low energy, 5 is high energy
Shedding: 1 is low energy, 5 is high shedding
Affection: 1 is not very friendly, 5 is very friendly
Exercise Requirements: 1 is low exercise needed, 5 is a lot of exercise
Breed Stat
Size: Medium,Small
Life span: Over 10 Years
Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
Grooming: Every day
Coat length: Medium
Coat sheds?: Yes
Home Size: Large,Small
Garden Size: Medium,Small
Rating System:
Ease of training: 1 is hard to train, 5 is easy
Ease of grooming: 1 is hard to groom, 5 is easy
Sociability: 1 is not social, 5 is very social
Guarding: 1 is not a good guard dog, 5 is very good guard dog
Suitable for Apartments: 1 is not suitable, 5 is very suitable
Noisiness: 1 is quiet, 5 is loud
Biting and Nipping: 1 is doesn’t nip/bite, 5 high chance of biting/nipping
Energy Level: 1 is low energy, 5 is high energy
Shedding: 1 is low energy, 5 is high shedding
Affection: 1 is not very friendly, 5 is very friendly
Exercise Requirements: 1 is low exercise needed, 5 is a lot of exercise