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Jump to: Temperament Exercise Care Food Quick Facts
Shetland Sheepdog Breed Group: Herding
Height: 13 – 16 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 14 – 27 pounds
Life Span: 12 – 13 years
Yes we are, paws down, the coolest dogs ever! Let others know how great we are. #dogs #shetlandsheepdog #bestdog
Breed Info
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They’re lithe, agile and graceful.
They’ll greet you with smiling face and promise to be loyal.
They love to work and will go for miles.
They’re Shetland Sheepdogs.
Also known as Shelties, these beauties originated among the Shetland Islands just off the coast of Scotland.
Shetlands were first working dogs who assisted farmers in herding sheep and guarding farmland.
Today they’re family favorites who are delighted to please.
Shelties are quick to learn and have proven themselves as world-class competitors in obedience, herding trails and agility.
They’re also ideal watchdogs who are loyal to family and wary of strangers.
Herding instincts are obvious in their love for nipping anything that moves but provide proper training and Shelties are great with children and other household pets (including the cat!).
Shelties are a perfect companion for an athletic lifestyle and can make their dwelling in city or country.
Just be sure to give them lots of exercise.
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Exercise
If you’re looking for a couch partner only, the Shetland simply won’t do.
These athletic beauts are super active and enjoy a good run at least daily.
Include hearty games of Frisbee and long hikes through the wild.
Shelties absolutely love learning new tricks and are quick to learn.
They’ll respond well to training that includes a gentle master, positive praise and lots of love.
Start training the first day you bring your puppy home.
Even at eight weeks they are capable of soaking up lots so don’t delay training for even a month.
If possible, get your puppy into kindergarten classes by ten to twelve weeks and socialize, socialize, socialize your little companion.
Proper puppy training will promise you a well-rounded Shetland that’ll literally turn heads.
Don’t be fooled though.
Shetland Sheepdogs are not intended for any novice dog owner.
Shelties need a consistent master who will clearly establish who’s in charge.
Originally the breed was intended to work and today they’ll thrive when given a job.
Keep these canines busy and watch them thrive in dog sports including agility, obedience and herding trails.
Fail to provide your Sheltie with exercise and he/she will simply have time to think up unacceptable behaviors at your expense.
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Care
A Shetland’s dense double coat requires regular grooming and is prone to shed lots, especially during Spring and Fall.
Expect to brush or comb your Sheltie several times per week to prevent or remove mats and tangles.
Clean your Sheltie’s ears to avoid buildup of wax and debris, trim nails regularly, bath the beaut every month or two and keep those teeth shiny white using a vet-approved toothpaste.
When looking for your perfect Shetland Sheepdog, take note that a puppy is the product of its background and breeding.
Look for a puppy with parents of good personality as well as one that’s been well socialized from its early days.
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What is the Best Shetland Sheepdog Dog Food?
Similar to your own body, your canine’s development and growth is directly connected with what goes inside his or her system.
As a result, start your Shetland Sheepdog puppy on one of the best Shetland Sheepdog puppy foods specifically designed for puppies in the small dog breed family.
Each bag of goodness is made with the finest ingredients and includes a wholesome balance of protein, calories and calcium which target healthy puppies through six months of age.
Your Shetland Sheepdog puppy will love the kibble size and tasty flavor, plus you can rest confident your Fido is getting the food he or she needs for healthy and controlled growth.
After that six month birthday, your growing puppy will be ready to transition into a premium All Stage Dog Food designed to promote long and happy canine lives.
Each package of All Stage Dog Food contains a healthy dose of Omega 3 and 6 to promote a healthy coat and skin.
Plus, every batch is carefully mixed inside the United States and is 100% free from corn, wheat gluten, and artificial flavors and colors.
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Why you shouldn’t purchase a Shetland Sheepdog:
They need a heavy dose of daily exercise, they’re fond of barking and they’re prone to shed lots.
Why you should purchase a Shetland Sheepdog:
They’re light on their feet, graceful, athletic and quick to learn.
Quick facts:
- Shetland Sheepdogs originated among the Shetland Islands.
- A Shetland’s coat comes in a variety of stunning colors including merle, sable and white, blue merle, black and tan, tri-color, black and white, and sable.
- Sheltie’s have Collie in their ancestry and were once referred to as Miniature Collies.
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