Shetland Sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, are intelligent, affectionate, and loyal dogs that make great companions for families with children. They are also highly active dogs that require regular exercise. If you are thinking about adding a Sheltie to your family, there are a few things you should know about their temperament, grooming needs, and exercise requirements.
Temperament
Shelties are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are also very intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. Shelties are good with children and other pets, and they are generally healthy and have a long lifespan.
Grooming
Shelties have a long, double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They should be brushed at least once a day, and more often during shedding season. Shelties also need to be bathed regularly, as their coats can easily become dirty.
Exercise
Shelties are very active dogs and require at least one hour of exercise per day. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and running around in the yard. Shelties can also be trained for agility and other dog sports.
Health
Shelties are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to certain health conditions, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. It is important to have your Sheltie screened for these conditions by a veterinarian before you bring them home.
Training
Shelties are very intelligent dogs and are easy to train. They are eager to please their owners and learn new commands quickly. Shelties can be trained for a variety of activities, including obedience, agility, and herding.
Diet
Shelties should be fed a high-quality diet that is specifically formulated for small dogs. They should also have access to fresh water at all times.
Cost
The cost of owning a Sheltie varies depending on a number of factors, including the cost of purchasing the dog, the cost of food, veterinary care, and grooming. The average cost of owning a Sheltie is around $1,000 per year.
Pros of owning a Shetland Sheepdog:
- Intelligent and eager to please
- Good with children and other pets
- Loyal and affectionate
- Relatively easy to train
- Good for active families
- Can be trained for a variety of activities
- Generally healthy and have a long lifespan
Cons of owning a Shetland Sheepdog:
- Barkers
- High-energy dogs
- Shedding dogs
- Can be destructive if not properly exercised
- Can be expensive to care for
If you are looking for a loyal, affectionate, and intelligent dog, a Shetland Sheepdog may be the perfect breed for you. Shelties are great companions for families with children and other pets, and they are relatively easy to care for. With proper training and exercise, Shelties can make wonderful additions to any family.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind if you are considering getting a Shetland Sheepdog:
- Shelties are barkers. They are bred to herd sheep, and barking is a natural way for them to communicate. If you are sensitive to noise, a Sheltie may not be the right breed for you.
- Shelties are high-energy dogs. They need at least one hour of exercise per day. If you do not have the time to provide your Sheltie with enough exercise, they may become destructive.
- Shelties are shedding dogs. They have a double coat that sheds all year round. If you are allergic to pet hair, a Sheltie may not be the right breed for you.
Despite these potential drawbacks, Shetland Sheepdogs are wonderful dogs that make great companions. If you are willing to put in the time and effort to provide them with the care they need, they will be loyal and loving friends for many years to come.
