Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is a reserved dog and is prone to shyness, they are gentle dogs that form really strong bonds with their owners.

They have a long soft fur coat which requires daily attention to keep it tangle free. These dogs are very sensitive and timid most of the time around strangers.

Shetland Sheepdog Facts

Exercise Requirements:      

Good with Children:             

Easy to Train:                        

Good Watchdog:                    

Low Shedding:                       

Good with Other Pets:         

Vital Statistics

Size: 36-37 cm (14-14.5 in)

Weight: 6-7 kg (13-15.5 lb)

Coat: Long, harsh-textured straight topcoat with a soft short undercoat. Mane and frill very abundant, feathered forelegs

Colour: Sable, tricolour, blue merle, black and white, black and tan

Lifespan: 13-14 years

Special Characteristics

These dogs are gentle, reserved and sensitive. You would also describe this small dog as being alert, active, affectionate and responsive.

Exercise Requirements

These small dogs are classed as having medium exercise requirements. The dog will take exercise if offered and requires two good walks each day.

Attitude Towards:

Owners: Are responsive and very affectionate towards their owners.

Children: Good but can be timid around boisterous children.

Other Pets: Good, however they may chase them.

Strangers: Will be reserved and timid around all strangers.

Other Unfamiliar Dogs: Are known to be reserved around unknown dogs, socialisation from a young age may help.

What to Watch Out For

These dogs are known for excessive barking if they get lonely or become over excited. They may also suffer from noise phobias. Their coat needs regular grooming on a daily basis to keep it mat and tangle free.

Health Risks

There are six health risks to take note of with this breed including; digestive disorders, eye conditions, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, prone to leg bone fractures and Legg-Calve-Perthes.

Ideal Owner

The perfect owner of the Shetland Sheepdog would be an active, gentle person who will appreciate just how sensitive and shy this little dog is. The owner needs to have plenty of time available to take care of the dogs daily grooming needs.

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