Sheltie Puppy Development

Shetland sheep dogs, or Shelties, are herding dogs that have been adopted as house pets. These loyal, bright dogs become very attached to their families and can be successful companions. When a family is adopting a Sheltie puppy, though, it's important to understand the breed and know what to expect during the puppy's development.

  1. The Facts--Shelties

    • Shelties were bred to be herding dogs. They originated in Sctoland, as a mix between Scottish border collies and a long-haired breed native to the Shetland Islands. Shelties have long been used as sheep dogs in the U.K. Their herding instinct brings with it certain considerations.

    Sheltie Puppies

    • Sheltie puppies are different than other breeds in that they're almost invariably painfully shy. These are not puppies that joyfully bounce from person to person but rather puppies that become attached to their families and take time getting used to other people. This is behavior that should be understood and accepted within a Sheltie family.

    Personality

    • Shelties are dedicated, happy, and loving when they're among family. They should be socialized as young puppies and exposed to different situations to keep them from becoming antisocial or unhappy. They are intelligent working dogs who do well with training.

    Grooming

    • Shelties have long, thick coats that are made up of an undercoat and an outer coat. As Shelties grow, so does this coat. They require consistent bathing, brushing, and grooming to keep their coats clean and tangle-free. Owners should get Sheltie puppies used to this treatment early in their life to eliminate future difficulties with it.

    Sensitivities to Medications

    • Shelties tend to be slightly more sensitive, physically, than some other breeds. According to SheltieNation.com, high fever, illness, and the ingredients in some heartworm medications can cause seizures in Shelties. Responsible owners should understand seizures and know how to recognize and handle them.