Behavior Problems in Shelties

Shetland sheepdogs, shelties for short, are quick-footed as well as quick-minded, requiring regular mental and physical stimulation. Originally bred for herding, most shelties are on high alert, high-strung and easily startled. The breed is typically sensitive and loving, making them great pets for some people. Shelties have a visually appealing coat of striking color combinations and markings. However, avoid choosing any pet based on appearance alone and without being aware of potential health and behavior problems.

  1. Temperament

    • Many shelties display neurotic behaviors, including hyperactivity, mindless and constant barking and skittishness. They require regular exercise to expend energy. Exercise that also allows them to use their minds, such as an obstacle course, is even better. Exposing a young sheltie to a wide variety of sights and sounds on a regular basis can help it overcome skittishness and shyness.

    Anxiety

    • Many breeds display separation anxiety but is more prominent among shelties. They do not like being alone and require nearly constant companionship. Separation anxiety manifests in destructive chewing, excessive barking and anything else their bright little minds can come up with. Shelties are inside dogs; a sheltie left outside alone and to its own devices will bark the entire time, and any training you have done to curb this behavior will be in vain.

    Sensitivity

    • Shelties are emotionally sensitive, and become stressed and unhappy in homes with a high level of tension, loud voices, fighting or crying. Although peaceful by nature, your sheltie could begin to take on emotions within the home; it may bite, growl, chew or hide under the bed. Many shelties become upset by change and may express this by urinating on an item that symbolizes the change. An overnight guest may find urine on his luggage when your sheltie is upset or decides to reclaim its territory.

    Health Problems

    • Health problems can easily cause adverse behaviors. The list of serious health problems that regularly affect shelties is a long one. Some common health problems are epilepsy, bleeding disorders, heart disease, joint disorders, eye diseases, endocrine system disorders and an array of skin problems. Excessive shedding, requiring regular grooming, is natural for a sheltie, but can increase when the dog is ill, in pain or stressed. Shelties, as with many breeds, often express pain or illness by chewing on or excessively licking their legs and paws. Some shelties develop a nail-biting habit that may be due to boredom, allergy or illness.