SHETLAND SHEEPDOG DOG BREED

Description:

The Shetland Sheepdog looks like a Collie in miniature. This good, smart, sweet and gentle dog is a true gift. For this reason, Shetland Sheepdogs are wonderful family companions. In recent years, this breed became very popular, mainly due to its almost human intelligence. The Shetland Sheepdog is extremely suspicious of strangers and can have a tendency to bark excessively. In 1911, The Shetland Sheepdog was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Height: 13-16 inches  Weight: 16-24 pounds  Lifespan: 12-15 years

Characteristics:

The Shetland Sheepdog is a small and alert working dog. He is agile and sturdy. While males are quite masculine, bitches are visibly feminine. Because this breed was bred to protect the flock, it has developed a strong herding instinct. The Shetland Sheepdog is very sweet and affectionate, but he will jealously defend his territory and family nonetheless. Comparable Breed: The Collie and Border Collie.

Character:

The Shetland Sheepdog is a very active dog, full of energy. If properly trained, this dog breed can be an ideal family pet. Shetland Sheepdogs get along well with children, provided that they know how to treat a dog. These dogs are excellent guards. Hence, the Shetland Sheepdog will warn the family about suspicious strangers, but he will not attack unless provoked. By nature, the Shetland Sheepdog is an amazing shepherd and is still used for protection and grazing.

Coat / Care:

The Shetland Sheepdogs has a double coat. It is quite long, forming a beautiful frill around the dog’s neck. Representatives of this breed come in a variety of colors, including black and white, black white and tan, sable and white, sable merle and white, blue merle and white. Shetland Sheepdogs require constant grooming in order to prevent the hair from forming tangles and mats. Moreover, because this breed sheds quite abundantly, it requires thorough care during the shedding season. Since the long coat of this breed easily gets dirty, regular bathing is recommended.

Training:

The Shetland Sheepdog is a very smart dog and therefore easily trained. Still, the coach must use appropriate techniques, including positive reinforcement. Shetland Sheepdogs are always willing to obey and please, but their strong herding instinct can be a problem. For this reason, early socialization is a must for this dog breed.

Activity:

The Shetland Sheepdog is a very energetic breed, which needs regular and intense workouts. But, since this dog breed has the urge to chase moving objects, it should not be left unleashed. Hence, if not controlled, the Shetland Sheepdog can cause a dangerous situation. All things considered, Shetland Sheepdogs should be kept in a spacious, enclosed yard, where they will have the opportunity to roam around and explore the environment.

Photo credit: Kelsey MacDonald/Flickr