Shetland Sheepdog for sale in USA | Animal Direct

FACTS ABOUT THE SHETLAND SHEEPDOG DOG BREED

One look at this adorable fluffy creature, and you’ll think it’s the miniature version of the Rough Collie. But nothing could be more further from the truth.

The Shetland Sheepdog, fondly called the Sheltie, is a hardworking dog breed that originated in the Shetland Islands of Scotland. At that time, farmers needed a watchdog that’ll stand guard and protect their crops from birds and other predatory animals. This lead to the creation of the Sheltie, who has proven to be incredibly diligent, loyal, and one of the most intelligent dogs of all time.

As family dogs, Shelties are loving companions to all family members. They are especially good with kids and often tend to follow them around like shadows.

TEMPERAMENT OF THE SHETLAND SHEEPDOG

• Highly intelligent: he’s ranked the sixth most intelligent dog breed.

• Loyal; he would do anything to protect his family

• Good-natured; he’s very gentle and good with people

PHYSICAL FEATURES

• A typical Shetland Sheepdog stands 13 to 16 inches tall and weighs from 11 to 24 pounds. However, it is likely to find Shelties who don’t fall within this range.

• Most Shelties have dark eyes though some variants may have blue or brown eyes.

• Shelties have a double coat—a soft undercoat and a long, rough outer coat.

• Primary coat colors of Shelties include sable, tricolor, and bi-black, while colors like blue merle, bi-blue, and sable merle are less frequently seen.

PERSONALITY AND BEHAVIOR

• The small Shetland Sheepdog is a very affectionate dog with an intense degree of loyalty. He loves to be around every family (especially kids), but he is entirely reserved around strangers.
• Because of their guardian ancestry, Shelties are excellent watchdogs. They are usually alert and quick to sound warning barks to any intruder who dares to encroach their territory.
• Shelties have astounding intelligence, which makes them so easy to train. It takes less than five repetitions to get a Sheltie to do what you want. Plus, there’s a 95% chance that he’ll obey your command the first time you say the words.

SPECIAL CARES AND GROOMING

• Shelties are an active lot who need enough time to exercise and play. Activities like walking, jogging, and fetching will do him a great deal of good.
• Although Shelties shed a lot of the time, they are relatively easy to maintain. Shed hairs are in clumps that are easy to remove. Daily brushing of the coat is essential. And care must be given to areas behind the ears and around the legs as they’re prone to matting.

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