Shetland Sheepdog a.k.a Sheltie

by DPA
(Lafayette, IN)

I’d like to share about my favorite dog breed, the Shetland Sheepdog.

About a couple years ago, I made a visit to a friend’s house to be greeted by McTavish, their 9 year-old Sheltie. He was just the cutest and the most wonderful dog I’ve ever seen! From that moment, I vowed that someday I too, will own a Sheltie.

As soon as I got my own apartment, I did more research about the breed to assure myself that this was what I wanted.

I found out that Shelties are in the herding group of the 7 dog groups of the AKC. Shelties ranked number 6 in the Stanley Coren’s dog’s intelligence list. The dogs in the top-10 list understand new commands in less than 5 repetitions and obey first commands 95% or better.

It is also mentioned that Shelties are very loyal dogs and make wonderful family pets. However, they are reserved towards strangers and in the extreme this may result in timidity which is why it is necessary to socialize them while they’re young.

Finally I got Troy last September of 2007. He is really a wonderful and smart dog. The intelligence test is true after all – Shelties are really smart dogs. It only took him three days to potty train and he learned the basic commands pretty much in an instant.

So here’s some things that I considered before I got Troy, my Sheltie:

Size: Medium, since I live in an apartment. Shelties are usually between 13 to 16 inches tall and between 15 to 35 pounds in weight.

Exercise requirement: The Sheltie was originally bred to herd livestock. They love to work! Daily 30 minutes walk is sufficient, however if you do not have the time to do so, they will be happy running around in your house/apartment. They love mind challenging games.

Upkeep and maintenance: Their double coats require them to be brushed daily otherwise they’ll get matted and cause problems. From my experience, my dog actually loves to be brushed. Since he is brushed daily, he hardly sheds.

Intelligence: Shelties are really, really smart dogs!! I’m so impressed.

Watchdog quality: They bark when they hear someone at the door. They are reserved towards strangers but do not show any sign of aggressiveness.

Health Profile: Shelties usually live up to 14 years of age. The common health problems are hip dysplasia.

Temperament: Really, really great dogs! They are mostly a one person dog and are very loyal. They want to please their owners.

In conclusion, I think that shelties are wonderful dogs and my life with Troy had been great!!! I hope that this information is helpful to you to find your four-legged buddy!