SHETLAND SHEEPDOG
The Shetland Sheepdog is an outstanding companion dog with a delightful temperament. Being gentle, sensitive, loyal and dainty as well as very lively, intelligent and trainable, the sheltie is one of the smartest breeds, very willing to please and obey. These dogs are so smart that many people consider them to have almost human intelligence. Loving, loyal and affectionate with its family, but suspicious with strangers, especially with children, but they will put up with a lot from children in their family. It is a good guard and watchdog. This breed needs people and must be raised in a home where he can have a log of companionship. They like to be kept busy. The Sheltie is above all an intelligent herder, capable both of commanding large cattle and holding small sheep in check. The herding instinct is still very strong in many of them. Because of its beauty and kindness, the Sheltie has become a popular companion dog.
Although they can be a bit reserved with strangers, Shelties possess an intense desire to please their owners. They are highly trainable and very responsible, making them one of the top choices for many types of activities, such as obedience, herding, and agility. Shelties raised as pets develop a lasting loyalty to their families, and their natural affinity for children make them gentle and loving companions. Their propensity to guard their home makes them highly protective, and most will bark when all is not right within their realm. Unlike some breeds, there is very little difference between male and female Shelties, either sex will make an exceptional pet. The main difference is that males tend to have more impressive coats, and unspayed females will ‘blow’ coat after every heat cycle.
Although its coat might appear to be a time-consuming task, a once-weekly, but thorough, brushing is all that is needed, though more frequent groomings and trimmings will contribute to a beautiful and tidy coat. Shelties blow their coat usually twice a year, often at spring and fall, and should be groomed more often at those times. A good brushing with an undercoat rake, which removes the dead and loose hair from its coat daily should reduce the amount of hair that is shed.
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