First of all, they are NOT miniature collies. They are a distant relative but are their own separate and unique breed. Shetland Sheepdogs are very sensitive and responsive to their owners and highly intelligent. Shelties can run and play with their owners and just as easily will cuddle up and take a long nap with you. They like to learn and please their owners. They are herding dogs and will occasionally decide to herd you, other members of the family and guests. They can be anywhere from 12 to 35 pounds, with most between 17 and 24 pounds, thus being a medium sized dog.
Shelties come in different colors, there is the “Lassie-like” sable and white, there is tri color (black, brown and white), bi black (black and white) and blue merle (a silver grey with black markings) and some variations of the above. I find no real difference in personality by color or by gender. Sheltie males are no more dominant or aggressive than females.
When considering adopting a “Sheltie”, as they are nicknamed, always either contact a breed rescue group, or a recommended AKC breeder. DO NOT BUY YOUR DOG FROM A PET SHOP OR BACKYARD BREEDER OR PUPPY MILL. The breed’s sweetness, gentleness and sensitive do not thrive in such negative environments.
Consider if you are purchasing a sheltie that they will bark when playing and having fun as well as when guarding their home turf. Their beautiful coats should NOT be shaved and so grooming is required every 6 to eight weeks. The costs of grooming can be from $40-50 at a time. Their coats should be brushed on a regular basis. Like all dogs they require regular veterinarian checkups and inoculations as well heartworm and tick prevention medications. (Shelties cannot be given any medication contain Ivermectin as they tend to have serious allergic reactions.) Shelties often live to 14 or 15 years of age.
They are particularly good with children and bond well with whole families making each family member believe that he/she is the favorite. They do very well in obedience training, agility, rally, sheepherding and make exceptional therapy dogs. Shelties love their crates and beds and having a special place. They often cross their front feet when resting and some use their paws like hands to hold things such as chewies or catching Frisbees.
They do not require lots of exercise and usually a daily walk or two will do.
Shelties often have little quirks like barking at vacuum cleaners, or mops or when a loud appliance is used. There is nothing quite like a sheltie cuddle.
And oh yes, you will be removing sheltie hair from your clothes and will stock those little tape roller thingies to remove hair.
Their loyalty and love make them wonderful pets.
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