Facts about Shetland Sheepdog Puppies

While its exact origin is unknown, its believed the breed was created from crosses of Rough Collie, Icelandic Yakkin (a small local dog) and some other breeds, such as Kings Charles Spaniel, the Pomeranian and Border Collie. The breed as we know it today was fully developed by the 18th century.

The Shetland Sheepdog was originally used to guard and herd sheep flocks. Today, in addition to its original uses, it's also used for tracking, agility and obedience competitions and performing tricks. It's also very popular as a companion dog.

The breed first appeared in the United States in the beginning of the 20th century.

Physical Characteristics of a Shetland Sheepdog

The Sheltie is a small- to medium-size dog. It has a muscular body that's longer than it's tall, a narrow head that's shaped like a wedge, and a thick, long tail. It has a black nose, small ears and almond shaped eyes. Eyes can be brown, blue or a combination of brown and blue.

The Shetland Sheepdog has a double coat that consists of a dense undercoat and a long outer coat. The coat is longest at the neck and thighs. The coat can be blue merle, sable merle, sable, black or white, with various amounts of white and tan markings.

Overall, a Sheltie looks like a miniature version of a Rough Collie.

Temperament

This is a very intelligent, gentle and easy to train dog. Many consider it to be one of the smartest dog breeds.

It's very loyal, affectionate and loves to be around its family. Try to provide it as much companionship as possible. A Sheltie will tolerate small children if both are raised together from an early age.

While a lot of dogs are wary with strangers, this breed is even more so and might not appreciate being petted by someone they do not know. Some dogs exhibit symptoms of shyness.

To raise a better adjusted dog, consider puppy socialization training while your pet is still young.

The Shetland Sheepdog is prone to barking, making it a good watchdog.

Best Owner / Living Conditions

This is a very active breed. Unless you provide it with a lot of exercise, it's not well suited for an apartment lifestyle.

It will do best with an active owner in a suburban setting, preferably with a large fenced yard.

Some Sheltie breeders will interview prospective owners to make sure this is the right breed for them.

Activity and Exercise

The Shetland Sheepdog is a very active breed and requires plenty of exercise.

Allow your pet to play and run off leash in a safe place.

If your yard is not fenced, consider getting an electronic dog fence. There are a lot of systems that are cheap (a lot cheaper than a physical fence), easy to install and will keep your pet well protected.

At a minimum, take him for 1 or 2 long daily walks.

Grooming

The Shetland Sheepdog is a heavy shedder. It will completely shed its undercoat twice a year - in the spring and fall. Brush more often during these periods.

When not shedding, brush at least once a week. Before you brush, mist the coat with water. Be prepared to brush for at least 1/2 hour.

Because heavy shedding removes most of the dirt, wash only when necessary.

Health Concerns

Like all dog breeds, the Shetland Sheepdog is susceptible to complications caused by parasites such as dog ticks, fleas, and puppy worms, including tapeworms, roundworms, and heartworms.

Additional health concerns include epilepsy, hip dysplasia, eye problems, and thyroid problems. For more information about dog diseases and health, visit dog health problems.

To reduce the risk of the above and many other health problems, buy only from reputable Shetland Sheepdog breeders (visit dog breeders to learn how to identify responsible dog breeders).

No matter how small the risk of health problems is, any puppy may get sick or injured. Many health problems will require an immediate attention from your Vet, but there are many others that will not, and you may handle them on your own.

To save time and money, learn how to diagnose and treat dog health problems that don't require your Vet's attention.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy for a Shetland Sheepdog puppy is between 12 and 15 years.

Did you ever consider adopting your next pet?

If this is the breed you are interested in, and adoption appeals to you, consider contacting your local Shetland Sheepdog rescue. There are thousands of pets waiting for a loving home and, yes, it's possible to adopt a purebred dog.