Shetland sheepdog

  • Dog Breed Group: Herding Dogs

  • Recommended for: Families

  • Maintenance Level: Medium-High

  • Life Span: 12-14 years

  • Height: 33-41 cm

  • Weight: 8-12 kg

  • Temperament:  Active, Loyal, Independent, Happy

  • HypoallergenicNo

  • Colors:Blue Merle, Sable, Tri-colour

Adaptability
Friendliness
General Health
Trainability
Exercise Needs

Shetland Sheepdog Breed Overview

The Shetland sheepdog can be medium sized and small herding dog. They are widely recognized because of their thick, long-haired coat.

The Shetland sheepdog comes in various colours such as

  • Blue Merle
  • Tri Colour
  • Sable

This particular breed is perfect for exercise and because of excitable nature. They are loyal, protective and hard-working. They are the most popular choice for a family that lives in a spacious house with lots of possibilities to run and enjoy.

They are known for intelligence and hard-working nature. The main desire is to please its master. Shetland sheepdog requires frequent dedication, which means that you have to stimulate their mental and physical state.

They can develop anxiety if they are separated for a long time. They need human contact in order to be happy.

Shetland sheepdog can grow up to 41 cm in height and 12 kg in weight.
Their life expectancy is approximately 13 years.

  • Suitability for Children – Medium
  • Tendency to Bark – High
  • Energy – High
  • Suitability as a Guard Dog – Low
  • Grooming Requirements –  Once a Week
  • Amount of hair shed –  Heavy
  • Food Cost –  $5 to $10
  • Average Monthly Pet insurance Premium – $44
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Origins of Shetland sheepdog

Shetland sheepdog was developed as working and companion dog for farmers on the Shetland Islands. This place has swept landscapes which mean that this dog had to guard and herd sheep from the constant weather change. They are bred small, but still, they are determined by nature.

Shetland sheepdog was not bred selectively in order to become small. The origins of Shetland sheepdog include the Pomeranian, Rough Collie, Border collie, and King Charles spaniel.

Shetland Sheepdog Temperament

Shetland Sheepdogs are energetic dogs that enjoy the human contact and regular exercise. They enjoy running, playing games and accomplishing anything that you ask them to do. They are people-oriented and extremely loyal. They require lots of human contact in order to remain happy, on a contrary behaviour problem can happen.

Common Shetland sheepdog Conditions and Diseases

Von Willebrand’s Disease – This particular disease is one of the most common among Shetland Sheepdogs. It causes clotting problems in the blood and it could result in serious issues, so you have to get professional help. If you want to reduce all expenses, just cover your Shetland sheepdog with PetCare.

Interesting Facts

  • Shetland Sheepdogs can gain weight so you have to control its diet.
  • The Shetland sheepdog is one of the most intelligent dog breeds available.

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