Renowned for their intelligence, a Shetland Sheepdog will be jumping through hoops in no time at all. They also love a good run, are natural herders and loyal companions.
The Shetland Sheepdog is one of the most intelligent dog breeds and eager to please, they are easy to train, obeying first-time commands 95% of the time. They love learning new tricks and need lots of mental stimulation. Playful, affectionate and with a happy disposition, Shetland Sheepdogs make wonderful companions. They are loyal and very vocal, making excellent watchdogs. They will alert you to suspicious sounds and strangers.
Shetland Sheepdogs bark a lot, even when no-one is around – you may want to buy your neighbour earmuffs. They are kind and do well with older children, guests and other pets if socialised early and well. They have a strong herding instinct, so take note. Historically, Shetland Sheepdogs are from England where they were bred to herd and guard sheep.
Fun fact: Shelties are known to be in tune with their owner’s emotions.
Expect cuddles if you’re feeling sad, a ball when you’re active and space to relax when frustrated.
Being intelligent, they need ample mental stimulation. Keep them busy with games, sports and activities. Be firm, assertive and calm while training them, using positive reinforcements or you’ll have a loud, destructive, badly behaved pet. Shetland Sheepdogs live for 12-15 years.
While they need ample exercise, Shetland Sheepdogs will do okay in an apartment, provided they have daily exercise. But don’t expect them to be your beanbag buddy – they are fairly active indoors. With daily walks and a romp in a fenced-in yard or your neighbourhood park, their tail will wag itself silly. Make sure they get their daily workout to avoid having a bored, snappy Sheepdog for a pet.
The Shetland Sheepdog’s long, beautiful double coat is not as high-maintenance as you’d expect. Brush it weekly with a pin brush. To prevent damaging the mane, make sure it is damp when you brush. The outer, rough coat and smooth undercoat are both water-resistant and shed dirt so bath pnly when necessary. Brush their teeth and trim their nails regularly. Shetland Sheepdogs shed twice a year – profusely in spring.
Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Common ailments include eye disease and displacement of the kneecap. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.
Size
They are a small-sized breed weighing between 6-12kgs, with an average height between 33-40cms.
Space
A Shetland Sheepdog will be happy curled up in an apartment, provided they receive enough exercise.
Energy Levels
The equivalent of a marathon runner, they just go and go and go. Daily runs and games are ideal for keeping this breed fit.
Difficulty of Training
They are extremely intelligent dogs, making training a breeze.
Family Suitability
They are great family pets and loyal companions.
Compatibility with other Pets
They love to meet new friends, including cats.
Need for Company
Shetland Sheepdogs have a moderate need for company and enjoy spending time with their family.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?
No
Coat and Grooming Needs
This breed requires moderate maintenance. They have a long coat in blue merle, sable and black, with white or tan markings. Brush it weekly and trim occasionally.
Shedding
They shed heavily.
Tendency to Bark
They have a high tendency to bark, so expect frequent conversations.