Shetland sheepdog : Ingelligent and Harry Shelties an Ideal Companion

The Shetland sheepdog known as a show dog belongs to a working class breed of dogs; it is always mistakenly called as the miniature Collie. But this petite Collie look-alike is a different breed on itself despite its striking resemblance to the Collie. Though there is no written account of its origin, they are believed to be descendants of the Collie and other dogs such as the extinct Greenland Yakki dog, the Pomeranian and Kings Charles Spaniel which is used to develop this breed. Shetland sheepdogs are breed to be small to fit the needs and environment of the Shetland surroundings. The island of Shetland lies northwest of the British Isles, between Scotland and Norway. Due it geographic location Shetland isles experience harsh climate, has a rugged terrain and a limited space for farming and animal breeding. Its climate makes it hard to grow vegetations hence farmers needed small hardy farm animals such as the Shetland ponies and Shetland sheepdog. This miniature dogs are ideal for herding flocks and other animals, hence the sheltie fits the job very well.

Shelties have very thick double coats and long hair that comes in different colors and markings. Meaning Shetland sheepdogs have two types of covering that makes up they’re coat. The undercoat comprises of softer fur and the top coat is made up of long, rough and thick coat. The top coat are said to be water repellent and the undercoat serves as cover, protections and provides relief from hot and cold temperatures. The three main colors of the furs are blue merle, which comprises of white, black, grey and tan; tri-color, consist of black, white and tan; and the sable which comes in the color ranges of golden to mahogany. The sheltie’s are usually a clean dog, brushing could be done once a week to promote healthy coat, stimulate oil production in the skin and prevent sores such as the hot spots. They shed or blow their coat twice a year during spring and fall and for females, after they gave birth to their pups shedding of coats occurs. For show dogs, extra care in grooming is always needed to maintain the luster of the coat and have a healthy skin. Generally these breed has few minor health issues among those are hip dysplasia, thyroid problems and a few skin disorders. It is better to have a regular veterinary check to keep your shelties healthy.

For someone considering to have this breed of dog as a pet Shetland sheepdogs are ideal pets for the family because of its loving nature, playfulness, sporty, active, obedient, intelligent, independent and family oriented dogs that can be happy in every types of living condition be it in an apartment or in a country dwelling. These breed are very protective of their masters and family especially the kids. Because of their inherent playfulness and active nature shelties love to play outdoors such as play ball or Frisbee. If he is not given his daily walks or exercises shelties tend to become restless and nervous due to his pent up energy and drive.  So a daily exercise and play is regularly needed to make them happy and contented. This is also a good reason why shelties are a good travel companion because of its love for travel and the outdoors.