In truth the Shetland Sheepdog is NOT a breed that fits into all households. Naturally, Shelties have a wide range of personality traits that cannot be "lumped" under one description. However, there are certain traits that are fairly universal to the breed.
1. Shelties are very verbal.
2. Shelties are reserved by nature and early socialization is
needed to keep them from being shy.
3. Shelties are extremely loyal either to one person or one family.
4. Shelties are sound sensitive and sound reactive.
5. Shelties will chase (in attempt to herd) anything that moves.
6. Shelties are very bright and need to be given something to
occupy their mind and bodies. Many will invent a "job"
if they are not given one.
7. Shelties do not like to spend time away from their people.
A Sheltie that is left alone all day is usually not a very happy
little dog.
8. Shelties are an emotional breed. They are very sensitive to
the moods of their people. They do best in a home where gentleness
is the way of life.
9. Shelties are an active breed and need exercise everyday. They
need more than a 10-minute walk around the block.
10. Shelties need regular biweekly (minimum) grooming and they
shed extensively.
If someone is looking for a very laid back,
not particularly sensitive, doesn't really care if you are coming
or going, low maintenance, average intelligence dog…they
would find the Sheltie exasperating, to say the least.
Shelties demand to be an integral part of the family to which
they belong. They stick their noses into everyone's business and
feel compelled to make comments on their observations.
They will follow their person to the corner of the earth and ALWAYS
into the bathroom.
They consider you leaving them behind as an aberration of proper
behavior and will voice their disapproval…loud and long…often
accompanied by frantic twirling and jumping.
They are selective as to which of your friends is worthy of their
affection, and which are to be observed from a distance, before
a verdict is rendered.
They will steal FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD, right out of the mouths of
babes, and show no shame.
They will give chase, if not properly restrained, to any and all
moving objects.
They will sense your every mood and will be happy and sad along
with you.
They love attention and they love to learn.
In short, they demand nothing less than being a FULL member of
your family…they do not consider themselves mere dogs (banish
the thought!).
So if you are considering bringing a Sheltie or, Shelties, into your family, be prepared to spend a lot of time, energy and love on this new member…for that is what they need. In return they will give you some of the most wonderful moments of your life, and memories you will cherish forever.
Used with permission of Trini Gilmore and Sheltie Rescue of Georgia, Inc.