Shetland Sheepdogs are cute, fluffy, high-energy dogs with a reputation for being patient and devoted. They have a long history as working dogs, and their agility, speed, and intelligence make them popular in police work today. What do you know about these incredible creatures? Continue reading to find out more fascinating facts about this dog.
Shelties Rank Sixth Among Dog Breeds in Intelligence
Shelties are incredibly intelligent canines. They are the sixth cleverest dog breed overall and the smartest small dog breed. So, how does this affect your Sheltie’s relationship?
They can pick up new orders in as few as five tries and excel at stunts and agility. It may be a lot of fun and satisfying to train your Sheltie as a puppy.
Having a smart Sheltie dog, on the other hand, entails a certain level of responsibility. It means daily walks, comfortable with a leash, socialization with other dogs or animals, and home activities are all necessary to keep him occupied.
They do not play fetch like most dogs, therefore games with them might be challenging. Herding, on the other hand, is something they enjoy.
They are a high-energy breed, so they require a lot of exercises.
Shelties, who were raised to be active dogs, require about 30-60 minutes to do daily outside exercise. Allow plenty of opportunities for your Sheltie to discover, and socialize.
You can also provide extra mental and physical stimulation for your Sheltie by interacting with them through herding dog games in the house. You’ll be familiar with Zoomies if you raise more than 2 or more Shelties. Zoomies are a favorite game among them.
Shelties have a lot of rapid energy, so give them as much exercise as possible. However, unlike certain breeds, they will not go climbing or jogging for hours.
They require a lot of mental and physical stimulus. Without it, a Sheltie might engage in less suitable forms of entertainment.
They like to go walks, play catch with the youngsters, and gallop around the dining room table. They’ll then assist you in keeping the sofa in place.
Shelties may live in apartments because of their small size if their owners are devoted to giving them daily exercise and game time, as same as coaching your pets not to bark excessively.
Maintain your dog’s interest in training. They are easily bored, and they don’t understand the value of repeating an exercise if it was done well the first time.
Excellent temperament
Overall, Shetland Sheepdogs are affectionate, caring, loyal, and sensitive little fellows. Of course, all dogs have unique personalities, but the Sheltie breed disposition produces a sweetness that you’ll notice in every Sheltie you meet.
His intelligence, submissive attitude, and desire to please all contribute to the Sheltie character. He wants to protect you while also following you around.
However, be aware that a nervous Sheltie can be jittery. Lack of socialization during puppyhood is a common cause of nervousness in Shelties.
He’s affectionate, playful, and devoted to his family.
A Sheltie always goes everywhere with a family member which just wants to be closer with the owners. They are a sensitive breed that requires constant company and do not perform well when you leave them alone for a long time.
This makes them ideal for families with little children, but not so much for households that are chaotic or emotionally unstable. Shetlands must feel protected and loved in order for their distress to manifest as neurotic behavior.
Excellent for training.
With this sensitive breed, you just need training by giving praise, gentle direction, or food rewards. The Sheltie is not difficult to train, sensitive, and attentive, and responds exceptionally well when your tone is soothing.
Shetland Sheepdogs are always eager to learn new skills and activities.
Shelties (and their owners) love the challenge of learning new skills, such as “helping” around the home or performing canine gymnastics.
They are thought to be incredibly bright, so they will respond well if you train your pets more fun and patient.
Shelties can be shy around strangers, but they are not violent.
Their intellect, quick eyes, and barking all combine to create a very manageable alarm dog.
Because the Sheltie is not a guard dog, it will not attack anyone.
Unknown guests, neighborhood dogs, inquisitive cats, and, of course, the postman make wonderful watchdogs because they always preserve their family from potential hazards and fast to alarm you someone’s coming by barking.
Shetland Sheepdogs are stunning canines.
Petting any dog is relaxing, but Shetland sheepdogs have exceptionally soft fur that makes cuddling sessions much more enjoyable. Furthermore, their coat is elegantly feathered in a variety of hues. The calm, intelligent expression created by the long, elegant head and expressive eyes charms hearts.