Are you looking for an answer to the topic “sheltie puppies bay area“? We answer all your questions at the website Chewathai27.com/ppa in category: Aodaithanhmai.com.vn/ppa/blog. You will find the answer right below.
Table of Contents
How much does a Sheltie puppy cost?
$500-$1,500
Going through a breeder is both the easiest and most expensive way to get your hands on a purebred Sheltie. The costs will depend on the breeder’s reputation and whether you’re willing to pay top-dollar for premium bloodlines, but typically, a Shetland Sheepdog costs between $500 and $1,500.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
Despite their hardy work, these dogs are actually quite small, often weighing less than 30 pounds and standing under 16 inches tall. However, they make up for their short stature by being incredibly smart and energetic.
While they obviously make fantastic working dogs, “Shelties” also make wonderful family pets. However, owning a dog can be an expensive proposition as, like any breed of dog, they can tend to have all sorts of expensive needs.
How expensive are these dogs? let’s find out
Shetland Sheepdog Prize: One-off cost
The initial costs associated with acquiring a Sheltie vary widely depending on whether you are buying one for free, adopting one, or finding one. While this could potentially be a difference of hundreds of dollars, it’s just a drop in the bucket compared to what you’ll likely be spending on these dogs (or any dog) over time.
This means that while saving money upfront can be important, it shouldn’t be the be-all and end-all when it comes to deciding on a Sheltie. You’ll have to spend quite a bit of money over time anyway. So if the price puts you off, you should reconsider owning a dog.
Free Shetland Sheepdogs
You’re unlikely to be gifted a purebred Sheltie, but it’s not uncommon, especially in farming communities where their use is commonplace.
However, remember that while having a free dog will save you a bit of money, it will still pay you a small fortune in its care and maintenance over time.
Shetland sheepdog adoption
$50-$200+
As with finding a free dog, finding a purebred Sheltie from shelters and shelters is a bit difficult. Your odds are better with a rescue party, especially in a place where sheltie ownership is common.
Adoption fees depend on where you get the dog from (animal shelters are cheaper) and how old the animal is. Puppies are the most expensive, while older dogs can be pretty cheap, even free in some cases.
Also, keep in mind that adoption fees can increase if the dog has received expensive medical care. Even then, paying the fees is usually cheaper than paying for the surgeries out of pocket.
Shetland Sheepdog breeders
$500-$1,500
Going through a breeder is both the easiest and most expensive way to get your hands on a purebred Sheltie. Costs depend on the breeder’s reputation and whether you’re willing to pay top dollar for top-notch bloodlines, but typically a Shetland Sheepdog will cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500. Usually this is not necessary unless you plan to show or breed the dog.
Shelties aren’t the most expensive dog to buy, but beware of an underpriced pup. This can be a sign that you are dealing with a puppy mill or backyard breeder. Not only are these surgeries unethical, but dogs from these facilities also tend to have more health issues, drastically increasing your overall costs.
Initial Setup and Accessories
$215-$1,000+
It’s difficult to put an exact figure on how much you will need to spend for your Shetland Sheepdog from the start. This cost depends on whether your dog needs expensive medical care and how much you’re willing to spend on supplies.
If you adopt your dog from a shelter or rescue group (or certain breeders), some of the costly medical procedures may have already been performed, possibly at a significant discount. However, if you’re paying out of pocket, a healthy dog is a lot cheaper than one with medical problems.
List of grooming supplies and costs for Shetland Sheepdogs
Dog tags and collar $10-30 Neuter/neuter $35-250 X-ray cost $100-250 Ultrasound cost $250-600 Microchip $45-55 Teeth cleaning $150-1,000 + bed $30-100+ nail clippers (optional) $7-15 brush (optional) $8-40 Crate (optional) $30-100+ Vaccinations $50-100+ Toys $30+ Leash $5-40+ Food and water bowls $10-30
How much does a Shetland Sheepdog cost per month?
$50-$200+ per month
There is no set monthly cost associated with owning a Sheltie. The total depends on several factors, the most important of which is the quality of the food you serve them and whether they need regular medical attention.
Shelties can be quite reasonable to own, or they can be money pits. In that sense, they’re just like any other breed of dog, but they probably suffer from costly medical conditions a little less than most.
Shetland Sheepdog Health Costs
$0-$500+ per month
Shetland Sheepdogs are generally healthy animals, especially if you take good care of them. However, like any other dog, they could suffer from chronic (read: expensive) health issues.
If they’re healthy, you might not need to spend a penny on their health care, aside from the occasional check-up. However, a dog with chronic problems might require frequent vet visits and daily medication, both of which quickly add up.
The most common health issues affecting this breed are eye problems and bladder cancer, as well as skin allergies. The skin allergies probably aren’t expensive, but the other two could end up costing you a small fortune when all is said and done.
Dog food costs
$20-$100+ per month
Giving your Sheltie a quality diet is a great way to keep him happy and healthy, and it can pay dividends later in terms of medical savings.
Look for high protein foods as this will help your muscles grow and give you energy without making you fat. Avoid kibbles loaded with cheap fillers like animal by-products, corn, wheat, soy, and the like.
Also, don’t overfeed your sheltie. This can cause obesity, which is absolutely terrible for the breed. Luckily, these energetic dogs have high metabolisms, but that’s no reason to overfeed them.
Some owners may choose to feed their dogs raw food, adding significantly to their feed costs. These diets have some merits, but they can also be nutritionally deficient, so check with your vet before making the switch.
Dog grooming costs
$0-$25+ per month
You can take one look at these fluffy dogs and know that they need a lot of care. They have a double coat that is quite long and prone to shedding.
As a result, they need daily brushing and a full grooming session about every two months. You can do this yourself if you want to save money, but expect to pay upwards of $50 to have a professional groomer do it.
As with all dogs, they will need nail trimming and teeth brushing, both of which you should be able to do on your own.
medication and vet visits
$0-$100+ per month
As with other healthcare costs, this depends on your dog’s overall health. You may not have to spend anything on monthly medication.
Even if your pup is healthy, you’ll probably want to give him monthly flea and tick medication, which can be quite expensive. You can also give them supplements like fish oil (which is good for their eyes) or glucosamine for their joints.
Pet insurance costs
$20-$80+ per month
Pet insurance is by no means a required expense, but if you have a dog that has a lot of health issues it could save you a bundle. Of course, you could also spend a small fortune on pet insurance premiums and never get your money’s worth — and there’s no way to tell in advance which it will be.
Ultimately, it comes down to your financial situation and your ability to manage risk. Many people are better off paying a small amount every month than paying a massive fee every few years; If this is you, then insurance is probably a wise investment.
Luckily, sheltie premiums are usually comparatively low since it is a healthy breed.
environmental care
$0-$5+ per month
Shelties require little environmental care. Your only cost here might be bin liners if you have to go with them to give them a bathroom break and they’re cheap. If you have a yard, you can skip the monthly bag fees and just buy a pooper scooper instead.
Of course, if your sheltie is allowed to roam around a farm all day, you might not bother picking up their poop at all.
Garbage Bags $5/month Pooper Scooper $20+ (one time cost)
Maintenance costs for Shetland Sheepdogs
$0-$50+ per month
Shelties are both extremely energetic and incredibly smart, so they need something to keep them occupied. If they don’t have sheep to tend, you’ll probably have to spend a little money on toys.
The total amount you spend depends on the quality and quantity of the toy you buy. You may be able to save money without depriving your pooch by subscribing to a toy box service. These are companies that will send you a new box of toys every month for a flat fee; Some are better than others, so do some research before you decide.
However, toys alone are not enough when it comes to exercise and entertainment. You also have to spend time training them, but the good news is that training is free if you do it yourself.
Total monthly cost of owning a Shetland Sheepdog
$50-$200+ per month
The costs associated with owning a Sheltie can vary wildly from one extreme to the other. However, in most cases this is a cheaper breed as long as you take care of them.
On the other hand, given how active these dogs are, you will trade money for your time and energy as they will demand a lot of attention from you.
Additional costs to consider
As with any dog, there are unexpected expenses with a Sheltie. All dogs, regardless of breed, have at least one extremely expensive and totally unexpected vet visit inside them, so plan for that at some point.
You may also need to hire someone to look after your dog from time to time, so a walker or pet sitter should be factored into your budget.
Shelties are smart and generally obedient, but the downside to that intelligence is that they can be really misbehaving when they want to behave badly. In this case, you may need to call in a professional to get him to behave in a civilized manner.
They are not a destructive breed, but if you don’t give them an outlet for all their energy, they will vent it on something, and that something might be your expensive shoes or furniture.
Owning a Shetland Sheepdog on a budget
Although it doesn’t seem like it, it’s entirely possible to own a Sheltie on a tight budget. You just have to know which corners to cut.
If you give them lots of outdoor exercise (or give them some sheep to fight with), you can probably cut your entertainment budget altogether. You can also save money by buying them cheaper toys or equipment.
You also don’t eat much, which can be a big money saver.
For the most part, however, saving money on Sheltie ownership will likely come down to luck of the draw. If your dog is healthy, they won’t be too expensive.
Save money grooming Shetland Sheepdogs
It’s possible to save a lot of money on sheltie grooming if you know where to look. Some clinics have inexpensive vaccination and spay/neuter clinics, and you may even find places that offer cheap regular medical care. You’ll have to spend more time searching, but it will be worth it in the end.
However, we wouldn’t urge you to try to save money by buying inferior groceries or skipping regular checkups. While these steps will save you money in the short term, in the long run they are likely to cause serious health problems that will cost you significantly more than you saved.
Conclusion: Shetland Sheepdog Prize
Shetland Sheepdogs are certainly wondrous creatures, being just as capable of taking on a job on a farm as they are of taking up a spot on your couch. While not as expensive as many other breeds due to their small size and healthy nature, they can still cost a pretty penny over time.
Luckily, if you take good care of your dog while he’s young and healthy, you can greatly reduce the likelihood that you’ll end up having to spend a bundle on him. Of course, there are no guarantees here, but the numbers speak for themselves.
Selected image source: JackieLou DL, Pixabay
Are Shelties yappy?
Shelties have a reputation as vocal dogs, but that might be undeserved. Ill-bred dogs often display a terrier-like personality–hyper and yappy, always on the go–but can just as easily be overly timid and may become a fear-biter.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
The intelligent Sheltie can be trained to be an excellent watchdog, not barking and barking two or three times to alert its owner to a person at the door. You can train your sheltie early on to stop barking once you have established that there is nothing to worry about. If you’re not sure how to do this, ask your breeder or vet for the name of a reputable trainer.
To some degree, “yappiness” varies from person to person, but as a breed, Shelties are known for being vocal. Unlike some smaller breeds that bark but have “baby” voices, Shelties possess a piercing bark. Your neighbors may not appreciate the fact that your dog’s ancestors always lived within three miles of the ocean and needed to be heard over the sound of the surf, the call of sea creatures, the bleating of lambs and the howling of high winds. Someone interested in a Sheltie needs to understand that barking is actually part of what Shelties were bred for.
Be warned, two or more Shelties can be almost impossible to keep still. If noise is an issue with your lifestyle, the Sheltie may not be the right breed for you.
Click here for more information on teaching your dog not to bark.
Thanks to flyinfootwork for the perfect sheltie bark photo!
Are Shelties cuddly dogs?
Shelties Are Loving
The perfect sized lapdog, many Shelties love to cuddle in your lap and enjoy hours of stroking and belly rubs.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
What’s NOT to love about Shelties? Of course, if you are looking to add a new family member, there are many fantastic breeds to choose from. Your mileage from this list may vary based on what is important to you and your unique family dynamic.
I’ve compiled my personal top 10 list of reasons I think this breed makes the perfect companion. Sheltie lovers can already relate most of this!
(Insert drum roll by David Letterman.)
Shelties are small
I’m not a big dog. Big dogs are strong. Big dogs can be intimidating. Many large dog breeds drool. Large dogs cost more than smaller dogs. Big dogs have big tails that will smack you in the knees and sweep things off coffee tables.
Then there’s the issue no one likes to mention, how dogs greet each other by sniffing. This can lead to awkward moments when your dog’s head is already on your houseguest’s inside leg!
I personally think Shelties are the perfect size for dogs. Typically 13-16 inches tall and weighing 15-23 pounds, they are light enough to pick up and cuddle. They are small enough to play with young children and generally large enough not to be harmed by a child. Their size often reassures those who are normally afraid of dogs.
Shelties are gentle
Shelties were bred to herd. Not for fighting, retrieving or hunting. They are more diplomatic in nature. They enjoy solving problems and working things out. This innate tendency gives them a naturally “gentle” nature when dealing with people. Shelties are very aware of people’s body language and their position in relation to you, and are very attuned to moods.
Shelties will generally either whine, gently nudge you with their nose, or brush you with their whiskers when seeking attention. My Tyler likes to stand with his head between my knees while I prepare his meals at the kitchen counter. When I wear shorts, all I can feel is whiskers on either side of my knees. He’s happy to let me know he’s there – ready and waiting for dinner!
Shelties will often place a toy next to you instead of dropping it on your toes. Shelties can also be gentler with their toys than other breeds. Toys in our house have often been inherited by new “siblings”. We have some stuffed animals that are over 10 years old!
Shelties have also been known to jump up next to you and wait to be offered a seat, rather than just bursting in and flopping down on you. How polite of you!
Shelties are quirky
Have you ever seen a sheltie staring at fish? Have you ever heard a Sheltie howl? My childhood Sheltie hated sewer grates and refused to go near one. My beloved Trevor was just doing counter-clockwise laps around the room… squeaking a toy the whole time. No one has ever accused this breed of having no personality!
Shelties have a lot of joie de vivre. They love to amuse you and make you laugh. If you encourage them, you can bring out their silly side!
Shelties are expressive
If you pay attention, Shelties will show you the many different ways they show their emotions through body language – and via their vocal cords! Yes, they are known for their high-pitched bark, but they can be trained to control their barking, talk when necessary, and even sing! (We’re still working on that trick!) Note, however, that Shelties were definitely designed to be heard, not seen!
Why Do Shelties Bark A Lot? Well, Shelties have a lot to tell! They crave a lot of interaction with their humans and will stay by your side throughout the day just to be close to you. (That means following you everywhere…that includes the bathroom.)
As soon as it’s time to do something else, like eat dinner or go for a walk, they’ll tell you. Our seven year old Sheltie Toby is a particularly bossy Sheltie at dinner. He will rest his head on a nearby couch, chair, or knee and grunt and squeak as he looks at you. No need for a watch. He’ll remind me exactly when it’s dinner time.
Do dogs smile? I know for a fact that Shelties do that! When a Sheltie is happy, his eyes will sparkle and his mouth will open wide and he’ll start puffing at you. You’ll also notice that they pull back the corners of their mouths when they smile instead of just panting. I was able to get Trevor to smile on cue by asking, “Are you smiling?” and then touching the corner of his mouth. He loved this game! The sheltie smile is a wonderful thing!
It’s very easy to communicate with these expressive creatures once you tune into their body language!
Shelties love to play!
Shelties love to run and play. As with most dogs, keep an eye out for the play arch where a game of chase is taking place and you’ll be rushing around the house or garden with that happy Sheltie smile. This game is usually played between dogs, but you can try it too! I bet your sheltie will be over the moon!
While they generally enjoy retrieving, Shelties prefer the hunting portion of the game more than the return! Trevor was only a foot away and wanted me to toss the frisbee. Once caught he would let me reach over and take it back, eager for the next toss! Trevor also loved to keep an eye out for toads on our driveway after an evening rain. He would stand over them and wait for them to hop away! He was so mesmerized that after a while all we had to do was say, “Trevor, where are the toadies?” and his head immediately rolled to the ground, searching for his little friends.
If you really want to make a Sheltie happy, get some dogproof bladders. Most Shelties go insane chasing these magical things and trying to eat them!
Shelties are loyal companions
Shelties want to be with their human at all times, even if that means doing really scary things like getting in the water, which can be scary for most Shelties (although not all fear the wet stuff, some of them love it.) That The cruellest thing you can do to a Sheltie is make him live outside and away from family.
These dogs are 100% guided by your companion, so they’ll be really upset or sad if you leave the house without them. I would definitely not recommend such a bonded breed if you travel a lot. When you take on a Sheltie, you are taking on a new best friend and you must consider their needs in your life.
When my mother-in-law comes to visit, she doesn’t quite get used to the dogs staring at her. She always asks me why they do that! Sheltie lovers know that that just comes with territory, and it means they just want to communicate with you!
Shelties are delicate
Shetland Sheepdogs are so intelligent that they are incredibly sensitive to their environment. As a watchdog, they will alert you to any unusual activity outside or inside the home. That means cars, neighbors’ pets, wildlife, and even children playing. Our Sheltie Tyler will even go so far as to growl at a dropped sock on the stairs or a coat on the back of a chair. If it’s something different or out of the ordinary, you bet we’ll hear about it! You can train your sheltie to curb any excessive barking response, but they are
still highly motivated to stay on guard duty!
Shelties are beautiful
The first thing that strikes you about a Sheltie is how stunningly beautiful they can be. They also come in a range of different coat colors so there is a color for almost everyone!
Although often accompanied by cries of “Look a little Lassie!” or the infamous saying that makes Sheltie people the world over cringe… “Look at that Mini Collie!” In fact, it’s easy for the untrained eye to tell the difference between a Sheltie and a Rough Collie when placed side by side stands. Both are beautiful in their different ways, but Shelties have a very different face profile than Collies. In addition to the difference in size, well-bred Shelties have a more fox-like appearance.
Shelties are very smart!
As the sixth most intelligent dog breed in the world, Shetland Sheepdogs are known to be extremely intelligent.
Originally bred to herd flocks of sheep alone, they have exceptional decision-making skills. You’ll learn new commands in just a handful of repetitions and have the ability to learn hundreds of spoken words. They are also very curious to explore, which makes them easy to train.
I remember a funny story about Trevor and how he trained us to give him what he wanted. A few years ago on a trip to VT we came across a bell maker who made reproductions of antique sleigh style bells that would come on a leather strip for your door. I loved the soft cute chimes they made so we bought one for our back door. Every time the door opened, the bells rang. Beautiful or?
Well one afternoon my husband and I are in the kitchen talking about something and Trevor left to go to the mud room that has this back door. We chatted and heard the bells ringing. We stopped talking, looked at each other and leaned around the corner. Trevor stood at the door and looked at us. I said, “What’s up Trevor, did you ring the bells?” He turned and gently touched the last bell on the string with his nose, then turned back to me, smiling. I laughed and asked if he needed to go on the potty and he did his happy dance and called her a third time. I took the hint and showered it with praise (and took it out, of course!). Such a smart man!
From then on, when he wanted to go out, he rang the bell alone…or when I asked him to do it for me. I never had to train him. He just figured it out himself! That’s one of my sweetest memories of Trevor and the bells still hang on the door to this day. I will always leave the tarnish on the last brass bell from all those wet nose touches as a happy memory of him and our time together.
love shelties
A perfectly sized lap dog, many Shelties love to snuggle up on your lap and enjoy hours of stroking and stroking on your tummy. Some dogs are so content that when you stop, they’ll reach out and pull your hand back to continue petting! In most cases, Shelties are notoriously loyal and affectionate towards their owners, while being wary of strangers, making your relationship with them extra special.
I’ve had many stressful days at work only to come home with a hopping, barking, smiling, over-excited Sheltie. All my problems melt away as soon as I can hug one of my boys.
We have developed a strong bond with our Shelties because of the attention we give them. Mental stimulation is important for this breed. Do that and they will give you their heart, soul and all four paws; it pays you back 1000 times!
What are YOUR top 10 reasons to love Shelties?
Next: How to Find a Lost Sheltie
Back: The Shetland Sheepdog
Do Shelties pick one person?
Shelties are extremely loyal to either one person or one family. (Mine are loyal to roast beef and the roast beef family! ) Shelties are sound sensitive and sound reactive. This is part of their herding heritage.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
WHAT AGE SHOULD YOU CONSIDER THE SHELTIE?
An average Sheltie lives to be 12-14 years old, so what age dog is best for you?
0-1 years – Chews a lot, not reliably housebroken, needs a lot of attention and training, not a good choice if you are out all day.
1-3 years — Still acting like a puppy, may or may not be housebroken, will still chew, needs lots of playtime to burn off energy, gets bored quickly if left alone for too long…chews or digs out of boredom. Good choice for someone who is only home part of the day.
3-5 years — Able to confide in home alone for short periods of time, requires several hours of play time daily, gets bored easily, chews or digs from boredom.
5+ years – A perfect dog. Beyond the chewing stage, reliably house trained, content sleeping while you’re away, wants to play for a few hours but is ready to go back to sleep when you do. The best choice when you’re out and about all day.
Rescue dogs range in age from puppies to 13-year-olds. Everyone seems to want the young dogs… so please consider opening your heart to an older dog. They are much more difficult to place, but tend to be the best behaved. They need just as much, if not more, a home than the younger dogs.
What is the most expensive dog breed?
| Rank | Dog Breed | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Tibetan Mastiff | $3,000 + vet care and grooming |
| #2 | Black Russian Terrier | $2,000 + vet care and grooming |
| #3 | Portuguese Water Dog | $2,500 + grooming |
| #4 | Irish Wolfhound | $1,900 + vet care and grooming |
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
The most expensive dog breed is the Tibetan Mastiff, with puppies costing around $3,000. These dogs require regular grooming, which owners can expect at around $70 per session. Additionally, they can suffer from serious health issues that require surgery, which can send insane vet bills skyrocketing.
With puppies costing around $2,000, Black Russian Terriers are the second most expensive dogs. They also require grooming and usually a lot of veterinary care.
Because they don’t require as much medical care, Portuguese Water Dogs come in third, despite costing around $2,500.
When looking for a furry companion, it’s important to remember that dogs are an investment of energy, time, and money. Some breeds are more expensive than others when it comes to the upfront selling price, while other breeds require more grooming or health care throughout their lives than others. Purebred dogs have a strong market demand for specific dog owners or competing dog showers.
Another thing to think about is the food. When investing in a very expensive dog, especially one with many potential health issues, it only makes sense to feed that dog the highest quality food. Buying the best dog food to ensure the best nutrition will inevitably add up and lead to even higher costs, especially for large dogs that eat more food.
Here are the ten most expensive dog breeds based on a compilation of purchase price, cost of care, and lifetime medical costs.
2,869 people failed this quiz. Do you think you can? Take our brand new A-Z Animals Dogs Quiz
#10: Newfoundland – $1,500
“Newbies” are a fairly lazy breed who need encouragement to exercise but are always willing to cuddle. Pandas/Shutterstock.com
Newfoundlands are gentle giants, ideal for family life. These dogs cost about $1,500 and are expensive when it comes to health care, as a larger stature leads to more orthopedic and cardiac problems. Massive with long, thick fur, these dogs are high-maintenance and expensive to care for.
#9: Chow Chow – $1,250
Chow Chows are a protective breed that make good watchdogs. At around 12-15 years of age, medical costs can be higher than other breeds mentioned due to joint problems and autoimmune diseases. Grooming costs are also higher for these dogs with their thick, lush coats.
#8: Alaskan Malamute – $1,000
An Alaskan Malamute has an average lifespan of 12-13 years. iStock.com/Liliya Kulianionak
Very energetic and companionable, Alaskan Malamutes cost about $1,000 up front. They live to be around 13 to 16 years old. Aside from being one of the most expensive dog breeds, medical costs can be high due to health issues like diabetes mellitus. Their heavy coats also make for expensive trips to the groomer.
#7: St. Bernard – $1,500
Saint Bernards can endure extremely cold weather, making them great search and rescue dogs. iStock.com/swissipo
Saint Bernards behave the way they look: calm and aloof. Initial costs of around $1,500 are nothing compared to medical expenses of around $8,000 or more. For such a large dog, grooming can also be prohibitively expensive.
#6: Golden Retrievers – $1,500
Golden Retrievers are consistently in the top 3 most popular dogs in the US iStock.com/Tatyana Consaul
One of the most spirited breeds, Golden Retrievers cost about $1,500 from a breeder. Approximately 10-13 years old, these dogs make loyal companions but are prone to serious health problems, particularly orthopedic cancer, and skyrocketing vet visit costs over their lifetime. Golden Retrievers also need regular grooming.
#5: Old English Sheepdog $1,250
Fluffy but not fat – Old English Sheepdogs are muscular working dogs, ready to herd animals or children! Chendongshan/Shutterstock.com
Known from the movie The Shaggy Dog, Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent and loyal herding dogs, ideal for families with children. These furry friends need grooming and can be sourced from breeders for around $1,250. Due to health issues like deafness, cataracts, torsion, otitis externa, etc., health care for this breed can cost upwards of $7,000, making it one of the most expensive dog breeds.
#4: Irish Wolfhound – $1,900
The Irish Wolfhound was originally bred to be a big game hunter. iStock.com/Bigandt_Fotography
Massive but friendly Irish Wolfhounds make wonderful family pets. However, puppies cost around $1,900, and the cost of grooming for such a large dog is high. As a larger breed, these dogs develop specific health issues, driving the cost of vet visits to over $5,000 each year. Other health problems such as von Willebrand disease (a problem with blood clotting), progressive retinal atrophy and megaesophagus can occur in this breed.
#3: Portuguese Water Dog – $2,500
Portuguese Water Dogs can dive up to 12 feet while chasing fish! They have an athletic body and webbed feet that act like flippers, propelling them through the water. Eve Photography/Shutterstock.com
While Portuguese Water Dogs are more expensive to own than Black Russian Terriers at around $2,500, they typically don’t require as much medical attention, making them slightly cheaper to own. These dogs also need grooming and live about 12-15 years.
#2: Black Russian Terrier – $2,000
Black Russian Terriers were introduced to the USSR in the 1950s. Utechina Anna/Shutterstock.com
After the large Tibetan mastiff, black Russian terriers follow. Puppies cost up to $2,000, and adult dogs require regular grooming and wellness visits. These dogs develop ocular and orthopedic health problems, such as: B. Elbow dysplasia, typically later in life, requiring higher costs for vet visits.
#1 Most Expensive Dog Breed: Tibetan Mastiff – $3,000
While Tibetan Mastiffs grow to over 100 pounds, they are quite agile and quick-faced when they pose a potential threat. Tatyana Kuznetsova/Shutterstock.com
Not only is this extra-large breed an incredibly beautiful dog, but it is also the most expensive breed to own in terms of purchase price, care, feeding, and health care. Breed puppies cost about $3,000 and have a lifespan of about 10 to 12 years. These majestic, fluffy dogs require regular grooming, about $70 per visit. While their large size offers good protection, they are also associated with various health problems such as hip dysplasia, seizure disorders, autoimmune diseases and hereditary demyelinative neuropathy. Vet visits for problems like these can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars with possible surgeries.
While purebred dogs are popular for specific reasons, adoption services are a better option for breeders since these dogs have either been abandoned or abandoned due to unforeseen circumstances. Adopted dogs are cheaper and have already covered medical costs for initial examinations and the like. If you use a breeder, make sure they are reputable and will health screen young puppies early and be aware of any health issues that may arise in the litter.
Top 10 Most Expensive Dog Breeds Summary
Rank Dog Breed Cost #1 Tibetan Mastiff $3,000 + veterinary care and grooming #2 Black Russian Terrier $2,000 + veterinary care and grooming #3 Portuguese Water Dog $2,500 + veterinary grooming #4 Irish Wolfhound $1,900 + veterinary grooming and grooming #5 Old English Sheepdog $1,250 + vet care and grooming #6 Golden Retriever $1,500 + vet care #7 St. Bernard $1,500 + vet care and grooming #8 Alaskan Malamute $1,000 + vet care #9 Chow-chow $1,250 + veterinary care and grooming #10 Newfoundland dog $1,500 + veterinary care
Next…
Expenses are one thing to think about before deciding to get a dog. But there is also size, lifespan and temperament to consider – find out more here!
Top 16 Largest Dogs In The World – Large dogs can be expensive because of all the health issues, coat and food. But they are so adorable, they are worth it.
Top 10 Oldest Dogs Of All Time – Has A Dog Really Almost Lived 30?
10 Best Family Dog Breeds That Are Good With Kids – Labrador Retrievers take the top spot with their big, sweet hearts.
How much is a blue merle Sheltie?
Blue Merle Sheltie puppies can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,500 depending on bloodline and breeder.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
A Blue Merle Sheltie is a Shetland Sheepdog with a tonal gray and blue coat alongside black, white, and tan patches of color. This breed is a small but hardy herding dog with a lot of love for families. They are often gentle and shy, although they need plenty of exercise to stay happy.
The Blue Merle Sheltie has it all: a pretty face, a hardworking attitude, and a soft, fluffy coat. Read on to learn more about this loyal, exciting breed.
Size 15-25 lbs Life Expectancy 12-14 years Temperament Sensitive, active, intelligent, loyal Behavior Herding, chasing, vocal, restless, affectionate Trainability Highly trainable Grooming Needs Dental care, brushing up to 3 times a week Exercise Needs Regular exercise daily Characteristics to note Excessive barking , Excitability Other Colors Bicolor, Tricolor, Bicolor, Sable, Sable Merle
What is a Blue Merle Sheltie?
The Blue Merle Sheltie is a color variation of the Shetland Sheepdog. This unique color is one of the most diverse and beautiful types of Shelties. There are rarely behavioral differences between a Standard Shetland Sheepdog of a different color and the Blue Merle color.
These dogs are fluffy, affectionate and energetic. They require a lot of exercise but are extremely loyal and intelligent. Blue Merle Shelties have all the good (and bad) traits of Shetland Sheepdogs.
However, their merle pattern is part of a genetic mutation that changes the way their coat displays colors.
Blue Merle Sheltie genetics
In layman’s terms, blue merle coloration is the result of gene interaction. Blue merles, bi-blues and sable merles all share the same genetic makeup. Essentially, it affects the black tones in your blue merle’s coat. Black colors are toned down to tonal grays (which often appear blue, hence the name!)
Blue Merles can be considered a special type of tri-color Sheltie as white, grey, and black usually appear along with a tan color around your Sheltie’s muzzle and legs.
Blue Merles are slightly rarer than two-black or standard tri-color Shelties. However, their unique genetic make-up affects only the colors of their coat.
History of the Blue Merle Sheltie
Shetland Sheepdogs and Collies mostly come from the same stock. So much so that they were once called Shetland Collies! Collie purists, however, didn’t like the lack of distinction, so they settled on a more definitive name for this boisterous breed.
The ancestors of the modern Sheltie were working dogs in the Shetland Islands of Scotland. With the help of hardy dogs from Norway and the British King Charles Spaniel, the Shetland Sheepdog was born. These fluffy, intelligent and hardworking dogs were a cornerstone of herding in Scotland.
They soon became coveted pets in England. Some breeders have attempted to improve their collie traits by crossing them with collies, but have been altogether unsuccessful. Shelties are smaller than their collie cousins, although they share many breed traits with them.
Fast facts on the Blue Merle Sheltie
Blue Merle Shelties are extremely loyal and devoted to their families.
Although they look like smaller Rough Collies, they are just cousins from the same rough stock.
These Scottish nationals make great shepherds for your children.
Shelties often work best in single-dog households.
Shelties are extremely sensitive – to sounds and your moods.
Shelties are great dancers – they jump and twirl to show their excitement.
Characteristics of the Blue Merle Sheltie breed
Like all Shelties, Blue Merle Shelties are extremely energetic, intelligent, and ready to please. Your Sheltie is a quick learner when given the opportunity. They can be very vocal due to their extremely high sensitivity to noise. They will let you know if there is a problem.
This breed’s fluffy double coat requires less grooming than you might think. The most care you will do for your Blue Merle Sheltie will be wearing them! While Shelties can be reserved around new people, they have enough energy for several hours of running and play during the day.
Blue Merle Sheltie temperament
“Obedience” is a good word for the Blue Merle Sheltie. With proper training, few breeds are as loyal or listen as well as the Sheltie.
They make great companions as they like to be close to their bonded person throughout the day.
If you are often busy or away from home, a Sheltie may not be the best option for you.
They require a lot of energy, attention and exercise. Give them that and they will never leave your side.
Blue Merle Sheltie Behavior and Personality
Shelties have a bright personality. They are less prone to behavior problems than other breeds, especially because they are so easy to train. However, Shelties can become irritable or reserved around strangers.
The biggest behavioral problem with Shelties is barking. They can be very vocal. Being very sensitive to sound, they can often spend their days barking at the door or at any little noise they hear. They’ll let you know if there’s a problem, but they’ll also let you know if there isn’t one.
Excessive barking and jumping can be trained away, but it is difficult. Some Shelties don’t bark much at all. It comes down to the individual personality of each dog.
Overall, Blue Merle Shelties and other Sheltie variants can be affectionate, affectionate, and affectionate. They are generally gentle, intelligent and aim to make you as happy as possible.
Blue Merle Sheltie weight and size
Shelties are smaller dogs. Although they look like collies, they are a lot smaller and weigh a lot less!
The breed standard, according to the AKC, states that most Shetland Sheepdogs read at shows “should stand between 13 and 16 inches at the shoulder” (AKC 1959).
Of course, the breed standard represents the desired traits for a show dog. Some Shelties are larger or smaller than these.
Although a healthy Shetland Sheepdog will weigh between 15 and 25 pounds, they can weigh up to 40 pounds in larger male dogs.
How long do Blue Merle Shelties live?
Like most Shelties, Blue Merles live between 12 and 14 years. Some variations of the Blue Merle Sheltie (an all-white variety called “Double Merle”) don’t live as long due to genetic health issues. However, the Blue Merle Sheltie is an extremely healthy breed when given adequate exercise.
Shetland Sheepdog color variants
The Blue Merle Sheltie is just one of the color variants for a Shetland Sheepdog. Sable is the most common color (a brown color resembling a collie). Bi-Black, a black and white variant, is also common.
Other variants include tri-colored, bi-blue, and sable merle.
Do Blue Merle Shelties have blue eyes?
Blue Merle Shelties can have blue eyes. The merle gene often produces blue eyes. Sometimes Blue Merle Shelties are heterochromatic, meaning they have one blue eye and one brown eye. This phenomenon is more common in Blue Merle Shelties than other Shetland Sheepdogs.
Caring for your Blue Merle Sheltie
Although the Blue Merle Sheltie is fluffy and energetic, caring for this affectionate breed is easy enough. Here are some of the basic needs of your Blue Merle Sheltie.
How to train your Blue Merle Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties, in general, tend to be on the high end of exercise needs. It’s not okay to lie around all day, so make sure you give your Blue Merle Sheltie plenty of exercise.
It takes you more than just three trips around the block a day. Running, jumping, and even indoor play can help your sheltie get the exercise he needs.
This can also burn off excess energy, making them more susceptible to affection and cuddling.
Food and Nutrition/Nutrition for Blue Merle Shelties
Shelties are small dogs, so overfeeding them is easy. Avoid excessive treats, even while exercising — Shelties are just as good for a friendly word and a few gentle pats. It’s a good idea to limit eating to set meal times rather than skipping it all day.
Because Shelties get bored quickly and are allowed to eat when there is nothing else to do. Make sure your Blue Merle Sheltie gets plenty of exercise to avoid overfeeding.
Are Blue Merle Shelties clingy?
Blue Merle Shelties, like most Shelties, are extremely affectionate. They love to be hugged, petted and cuddled. These dogs are unaware of personal distance, so be aware that your dog will become glued to you at every opportunity.
Blue Merle Shelties love to be cuddled, but mostly only when they are exhausted. If you follow the breed’s exercise guidelines, you’ll expect a couch companion at the end of an exciting day. Positive affirmation and lots of affection throughout the day will do your Sheltie good.
How to care for your Blue Merle Sheltie
Blue Merle Shelties have long, fluffy coats. This can make it seem like they need constant brushing.
Their double coat is well insulated. Seasonal hair loss is to be expected. Shelties can puff up their fur when the weather gets warm, so brush them about three times a week to keep loose hair from going everywhere.
Even outside of molting season, make sure to keep the mats down by brushing frequently. However, they do not need to be bathed very frequently. A quick rub down after the rain or mud should be enough to keep them clean due to their coat texture.
Be sure to brush their teeth regularly as Blue Merle Shelties often have dental problems.
Are Shelties high maintenance?
Shelties are a breed with a high rate of shedding. This means that grooming their coat requires some effort. They can shed quite a bit and require frequent grooming.
Train your Blue Merle Sheltie
Trainability is one of the biggest questions when it comes to any dog. Dogs are individuals, of course – they have different personalities. However, most breeds have a training standard. This can help you determine how easy it will be to train your dog in general.
Keep in mind that even Shelties that are by most reports easy to train can be difficult. A dog’s upbringing, training situation and consistency play a major role in its training. Keep this in mind as we talk about training your Sheltie.
Blue merle Shelties generally follow the breed standard. That means they are intelligent but easygoing dogs. Unlike more stubborn breeds, their intelligence makes them eager to please without being defiant.
According to the AKC, Shetland Sheepdogs (and by extension Blue Merle Shelties) have a high success rate when it comes to obedience training.
Use positive reinforcement
The Minnesota Sheltie Rescue notes that Shelties are not stubborn like most intelligent breeds. They want to please their owners and will do anything to please them. That means they’re easy to train if you use positive reinforcement.
Of course, you should never react violently when a dog doesn’t obey commands. A Sheltie needs to be emphasized and praised for what is right. Positive reinforcement will go a long way. If they follow an order, make a big deal out of it. Be overly happy and show your sheltie that this is what will make you happy.
Stick to a schedule
When it comes to training a dog, consistency is key. This is especially true for Blue Merle Shelties. These dogs are intelligent, but you have to tell them what you want. Once you’ve established what your Sheltie can do for you, they’re eager to please you.
Part of building that expectation is setting a timeline. Get your dog used to walking at certain times. Make sure you take puppies out of naps right after they eat and wake up.
If you are consistent and reward good behavior, Shelties are remarkably easy to train.
Are Shelties Easy to Train?
In general, Shelties are easy to train. This extends to both potty training and behavioral training. As with behavior training, a schedule and positive reinforcement are required to train your sheltie.
Find your Blue Merle Sheltie
So where do you find a Blue Merle Sheltie?
Shelties are beautiful, affectionate, and extremely rewarding companions. Consider adopting a Blue Merle Sheltie if you want to add one to your household. Below are resources on buying a Sheltie, as well as adoption information and rescues.
Blue Merle Shelties for sale
When purchasing a Blue Merle Sheltie puppy, be sure to check the breeder. Reputable breeders often have more expensive puppies. They can also provide health checks, guarantees, and receipts.
Blue Merle Sheltie puppies can range from $2,000 to $4,500 depending on bloodline and breeder. Most breeders specialize in all Sheltie color variations, so finding a Blue Merle Sheltie specifically can be a challenge.
Blue Merle Shelties can be a little more desirable. Because of their unique genetic pattern, you may have to pay a little more for a puppy.
Finding a reputable breeder is important. Luckily there are resources available. The AKC Marketplace lists reputable, AKC-registered breeders who have puppies for sale.
Alternatively, you can try contacting an ASSA recommended breeder. This Shetland Sheepdog Breeders locator tool will show you where to look but does not verify that the breeders are reputable.
Adoption of a Blue Merle Sheltie
When people talk about “adopting” a dog, they’re generally talking about going to an animal shelter. Animal shelters typically take in unwanted dogs and cats without focusing on any particular breed or species.
If you are specifically looking for a Blue Merle Sheltie, you may not have much luck looking at a shelter. Still, it’s worth calling to see if an animal shelter in your area has a Blue Merle Sheltie available for adoption.
Remember that an animal shelter cannot guarantee the history of the dog you adopt. Screening is not usually very rigorous, but there is a fee. Dogs are kept in kennels until they are adopted and no effort is made to socialize the dogs or give them any special care.
If you’re looking to adopt a Blue Merle Sheltie rather than buying a puppy, a Sheltie rescue is a great option.
Blue Merle Sheltie saves
Sheltie rescue organizations often have many dogs that need forever homes. While adopting from a shelter is often risky and doesn’t require a lot of screening, adopting from a rescue organization means you’ll have to deal with a lot of screening.
Rescue dogs have been abandoned or given up by their previous owners. They are often in foster homes caring for them, attending to their veterinary care, and socializing them with people and animals.
While animal shelters often don’t focus on a single breed, rescue organizations usually do have a focus. This list of Sheltie rescue organizations can help you connect with rescue workers in your state. Each rescue has a process for adoption, so be sure to check with them.
Be sure to state that you want a Blue Merle Sheltie when contacting the rescue organization.
Conclusion
A Blue Merle Sheltie can make a great addition to your household. These beautiful dogs make perfect companions, are highly trainable and will bond with your family. Despite this, they are extremely energetic and can bark a lot. If you live in an apartment, this may not be the right dog for you.
related questions
Are Shelties good family dogs?
Shelties are playful, sweet and can make perfect family pets. They can be shy or excited around strangers. Either way, they can get remarkably close to their family. This includes being gentle with children.
Do Shelties Bond to a Person?
Like most dogs, Shelties tend to become attached to the person who is training them or who spends most of their time with them. You can only bond with a person if that person is your primary caregiver. To bond with the whole family, have each member of the family take care of your sheltie. This includes going for walks and participating in exercise, as well as affection.
Do Shelties like to cuddle?
Every dog is different. For the most part, Shelties love to be cuddled. They follow you everywhere and have no regard for personal space. However, they mostly only want to cuddle after you’ve worn them down with a full day of play.
Do Shelties bark a lot?
Shetland Sheepdogs are very vocal dogs. Extreme barking can vary from dog to dog, but most bark a lot. Some can be trained to stop barking, but it is an instinctive trait of their breed. It was inbred into them, so it would be difficult to train.
See also
references
“About Breed.” Minnesota Sheltie Rescue, https://www.mnsheltierescue.org/breed. Retrieved May 16, 2021.
“About Shelties.” Tri-State Collie Rescue, https://tristatecollierescue.org/know-your-collie-or-sheltie/. Retrieved May 17, 2021.
Ferrell, Pat. “The Shetland Sheepdog.” American Shetland Sheepdog Association, https://www.americanshetlandsheepdogassociation.org/history/
Keegan, Alicia M. “The Colors of the Sheltie: The New DNA Findings.” American Shetland Sheepdog Association, 2016. https://americanshetlandsheepdogassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/2016Version-ColorsOfTheSheltie-AliciaMKeegan.pdf .
McGowan, Charlotte. “History of the Shetland Sheepdogs.” American Shetland Sheepdog Association, 8 July 2016. https://www.americanshetlandsheepdogassociation.org/2016/07/08/shetland-sheepdog-history-mcgowen/.
“Official Standard of the Shetland Sheepdog”. American Kennel Club, May 12, 1959. https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/ShetlandSheepdog.pdf
“Shetland Sheepdog.” American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/shetland-sheepdog/. Retrieved May 16, 2021.
Do Shelties smell?
Whether your sheltie works on a farm, participates in dog sports or plays in the yard, you probably want a dog that looks and smells good. While you should first rule out any health issues, if your sheltie stinks, it’s probably time for a good grooming.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
Are Shelties hard to house train?
Their intelligence and eagerness to please can make them easy to train. However, shelties can also be too smart for their own good and a little stubborn, so you might have to work a little harder to keep your own sheltie motivated and focused during his training.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
Article overview
X
To housetrain your Sheltie, take him outside regularly, such as B. after he wakes up, eats and drinks water so he doesn’t have an accident. You should bring it to the same place every time, e.g. B. in your garden so that it recognizes that it should go to the toilet here. To further encourage your sheltie, praise them every time they get eliminated outside. Remember, if your Sheltie has an accident around the house, do not punish him as this will only scare him of you and will not help him with the house cleaning. Instead, simply clean the area with an enzymatic cleaner that’s safe for pets to avoid another accident in the same area. To learn how to teach your sheltie commands, read more from our veterinary co-author!
Do Shelties bite?
From birth, Sheltie puppies use their mouths to explore the den, their mother and their littermates. When they are a few weeks old, they use their mouths to play with their siblings. But when a puppy enters your home and begins biting everything he can get his jaws around, it’s time to impose some limits.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
By Becky Casale | About | Article | e-book
Nibble and play bite is when your pup sniffs your hands and clothes. It is very common in puppies but can also occur in older dogs that have not been taught proper bite inhibition.
Pinching and play biting is completely natural in puppies. They explore the world with their mouths – just like we use our hands. Puppy munching isn’t a form of aggression: it’s a healthy way to communicate, explore, and play.
From birth, Sheltie puppies use their mouths to explore the den, their mother, and their littermates. When they are a few weeks old, they use their mouths to play with their siblings. But when a puppy walks into your home and starts biting anything their jaws can reach, it’s time to set some boundaries.
The instinct to nibble and play bite
Puppy biting actually teaches young puppies an important lesson called bite resistance. If a puppy bites a sibling too hard, the other puppy will yelp in pain and stop playing. This teaches the pincers that biting too hard leads to social isolation. And when other puppies bite him too hard, he learns what that pain feels like too.
This is one of the reasons why puppies that are taken from the litter too early (less than 7 weeks) are often maladjusted. You’re missing out on these important social lessons. As a result, they retain a tendency to nip during play as adult dogs and under emotional pressure, creating a dangerous home environment.
Bite inhibition refinement
Even puppies that have learned basic bite inhibition from their siblings often need reconditioning when they move into your home.
And human skin is much more easily damaged, so you may need to refine your pup’s bite pressure even further.
Puppies cannot cause serious harm. Though their small teeth are razor sharp, their jaws are too weak to do much more than draw a trickle of blood. But there’s a lot more to a grown dog than just scratching the surface, and it won’t be long before your cute ball of fur grows into a full-grown dog with full-grown teeth.
Here are 7 steps to teach your pup bite resistance. The same technique is applicable to older dogs, although the lesson may take longer to train them.
1. Set the play biting limit
When playing with your Sheltie puppy, choose the level of mouth movement you are willing to accept within the bounds of good behavior. Some owners are content to let their dogs touch their hands with their teeth as long as no pressure is applied. Others (particularly those with young children) make no dental contact at all.
2. Limit puppy biting
Whenever your pup crosses the line, squeal in pain and immediately twist your entire body away from them. Walk away and keep your face and eyes averted. Don’t talk to or touch him for the next 30 seconds. That’s long enough to absorb the lesson, but not too long to forget what caused the social isolation. Make sure no one approaches or plays with him during this time.
3. Provide chew toys
Most puppies (and some older dogs) have an innate need to chew when they are being played with. To prevent your pup from biting your hands, give him a more appropriate chew: all with a slight yield. Rawhide bones, pig ears, or squishy rubber toys all go down well.
4. Correct bad behavior
If your Sheltie tries to bite and bite your hands while playing, quickly correct him with a sharp “NO!” or “Ah-ah-aaah!” He should be scared to stop. As soon as he stops, give him praise and quickly draw his attention to an appropriate chew toy. When his jaws close around it, praise and pat him again.
5. Never use physical force
Never use physical force to correct your dog for pinching or chewing. Not only is it unnecessary, but in most cases it encourages further biting by the puppy. The cold shoulder technique outlined above is the most effective and humane way to show your displeasure to your Sheltie. After all, he wants to please you, he just needs to figure out what the rules are. Give the dog a chance!
6. Use time outs for sustained sipping
If your pup really gets going and tries to pinch you repeatedly, he may need to cool off a bit. In this case, the time-out method is a good idea: take him alone to his crate or a small room and leave him there for five minutes to rest. When it’s time to bring him back to the heart of the household, you can start playing again – just tone it down a notch until you feel he can handle the excitement without nagging any more and to bite.
7. Avoid rough play with series pliers
If your puppy or growing dog is very hyperactive, choose non-contact play whenever possible. Frisbee and fetch are great choices, as is tug of war, provided your dog knows the “drop it” command. Avoid rough play such as gentle slapping or extensive wrestling at all costs. These games encourage nibbling and engage a dog’s instinctive aggression that should be avoided. Instead, keep the games friendly and low-key.
Can you train a Sheltie not to bark?
Sometimes Shelties bark because something exciting is happening, such as the preparation of their dinner, or when you pick up their leashes to go for a walk. You can teach them to cease their barking by stopping the action that excites them.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
Hope this doesn’t really surprise you. If you’ve had Shelties before, you know that they’re a breed known for barking more than some other breeds. Shelties were bred in Shetland in the early 1900s to work on farms. They earned their keep by barking to draw attention to strangers, herding sheep, and scaring birds of prey from lambs. Barking is natural for a Sheltie and it can be very difficult for them to break this habit. Even today, in obedience and agility competitions, you will often find that the Sheltie is the dog that likes to express its joy at work with happy barks. If you have multiple Shelties you will find that they tend to encourage each other and bark more.
What can I do to stop barking?
Don’t rely on being able to stop barking completely. It’s a natural, genetically programmed behavior for Shelties. However, it is possible to reduce barking.
First, determine why your sheltie is barking. Is it excitement, boredom, fear, alarm? Then treat or treat the cause of the barking. Never yell at your Sheltie to stop barking. He might think you’re just going along with it and bark some more!
If your sheltie is left alone at home or in the yard by himself there is a good chance that he is barking due to a lack of environmental enrichment. Provide mental stimulation in the form of food-filled toys or lots of good fetch or running games. Get plenty of exercise. A tired dog is a good dog.
When your sheltie is anxious, you will hear a fast, high-pitched bark. Work with a qualified positive trainer to address your Sheltie’s anxiety issues. You can find trainers using the ‘Find a Trainer’ button on the Association of Pet Dog Trainers website. There is also an excellent article on how to choose a quality trainer. If you can reduce your Sheltie’s fears, he won’t have to bark as much. Your sheltie should never be punished for barking out of fear.
If your Sheltie is constantly alertly barking around the home, you may want to manage the situation by taking steps like closing the blinds to prevent him from alerting passing dogs or installing wooden fences to keep him from doing so prevent surveilling passers-by on the street. The more you allow your sheltie to bark, the more of a habit it will become.
Sometimes Shelties will bark because something exciting is happening, like preparing their dinner or when you take their leash to go for a walk. You can teach them to stop barking by stopping the action that excites them. For example, if you’re on your way to grab the leash from the hanger by the door and your Sheltie starts barking excitedly, stop your movement towards the leash. Don’t yell or scold, freeze. When your sheltie is calm, move back towards the leash. If your sheltie starts barking again, stop the movement. Continue doing this until your sheltie finds out that he won’t get his leash for the walk until he’s calm. Be patient and consistent and you will see a change. If you are in a hurry one day and have him bark at you until you get his leash, the behavior will only get worse.
Some trainers tell them to bark on command and then teach them to “silence” on command. This can be effective and it’s certainly easy to teach a Sheltie to bark on cue! To do this, say “speak” and do something that you know will make your Sheltie bark, e.g. B. letting someone ring the doorbell or clapping their hands and getting excited. Praise him when he barks. Once you’ve gotten him to bark on command, introduce the word “quiet” or “quietly” and offer him a treat. He sniffs the treat softly. Once he sniffs it softly, offer him the treat. Practice asking for “talk” and “quiet,” and slowly increase the time between the “quiet” signal and the offering of the treat.
Are Shelties loud?
Many Shelties are very vocal, and they have a loud, piercing bark. To keep your relations with neighbors friendly, it’s important to train your Sheltie at an early age to stop barking on command.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
For many years the Shetland Sheepdog was called Toonie, derived from the Norwegian word for farm. Farmers bred the dogs and crossed the border collie with smaller dogs to herd and protect their flocks of Shetland sheep. Some speculate that one of the Shetland Sheepdogs’ duties was to protect the small sheep from birds. In fact, many of today’s Shelties seem to have a passion for chasing birds, and some even attempt to chase down planes and helicopters that fly overhead.
In the early 1800s the Sheltie was introduced to England and Scotland where it was described as a Miniature Collie. On the Shetland Islands, farmers began breeding their little Shelties even smaller and fluffier to sell to visitors to the islands. A Prince Charles Spaniel (a variant of the English Toy Spaniel) and some Pomeranian dogs left on the island by tourists are rumored to have been crossed with the local sheepdogs.
There were so many crossbreeds that by the late 1800s islanders realized the original canine type was disappearing. However, there was much disagreement as to what the original dog had looked like and how to return to it. Some breeders believed they needed to crossbreed with Collies to regain the original type, others felt they should only breed the existing Shelties that came closest to the original type, and others continued to indiscriminately crossbreed with other breeds to create small, handsome pets to develop .
Shelties of all three types were entered in dog shows in the early 20th century up until the First World War. In 1909 the English Kennel Club recognized the breed. A total of 28 Shelties were registered as Shetland Collies (Rough) this year. Four of them still appear in the pedigrees of many modern Sheltie champions: two males named Lerwick Tim and Trim and two females named Inverness Topsy and Inga. The first Sheltie registered by the American Kennel Club was Lord Scott in 1911.
Collie breeders in England, however, were unhappy with the breed’s name and protested to the Kennel Club. This led to the name change to Shetland Sheepdog.
The Shetland Sheepdog caused controversy in both Britain and the United States for many years, with rumors of crossbreeding and long-standing disagreements over what the breed should be like. As a result, many Shetland Sheepdog Clubs were formed to support the differing viewpoints. Finally, in 1930, the Scottish and English Clubs came together and agreed that the dog should “resemble a collie (rough) in miniature”.
US breeders continued to import Shelties from England until the 1950s, but by this time American and British Shelties were beginning to vary greatly in type and size. Today almost all Shetland Sheepdogs in the United States are descended from dogs imported from England between World Wars I and II.
As the breed became better known, their numbers in the United States increased. In the 1970s, their popularity exploded and Shelties appeared on the American Kennel Club’s list of the Ten Most Popular Dogs for 12 of the next 15 years, peaking in the early 1990s. Today, the Sheltie ranks 20th out of the 155 breeds and varieties registered by the American Kennel Club.
And how is the Sheltie doing in its native Shetland Islands? Ironically, he’s fairly rare in his harsh homeland – the breed has been superseded by the Border Collie.
How do you pick a Sheltie puppy?
The most important criteria in selecting a pet is temperament and good health. Your pet must be compatible with the people in your house – a bouncy, active Sheltie for a house full of children; a quiet dignified one for Grandma. Pick a steady, sensible puppy that appeals to you.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
HISTORY & ORIGIN
The breed evolved from hardy ancestors who lived on the Shetland Islands off the coast of Scotland. The early Shelties were used as shepherd dogs and as protectors of their owners’ homes and property. Because of the harsh living conditions and close association with the people of the islands, the Sheltie evolved into a miniature herding dog, small and sturdy, a true working dog with a “special something” that is still evident in its personality today.
DESCRIPTION
The Shetland Sheepdog is a healthy, hardy, rough-coated dog that ranges in color from sable (gold to mahogany) to tricolor (black with tan spots and white markings). Blue merle (merle with tan spots and white markings) and a black or blue bi-color (without the tan spots on the face or legs). The Blue Merle may have one or two “blue eyes”. He can have a full shawl collar and a white blaze on his face, or he can have a plain face, he can have white markings only on his chest and feet. Each variant is perfectly correct. The size should be between l3″-16″ at the shoulder. However, shelties still vary significantly in size and weight. Size can vary from 12 to 18 inches in each litter and weight from 15 to 35 pounds. The ideal height is 14 1/2″ and about 20 lbs.
racial characteristics
The Sheltie’s most outstanding characteristic is its unique temperament. He has a strong desire to please his owner and a tremendous capacity for love and affection. The Sheltie is exceptionally trainable and responsive, traits that make them an ideal pet and companion, and an excellent worker in obedience tests. Shelties raised as pets develop great loyalty to their owners and are natural couch potatoes with little desire to roam. You seem to have a natural affinity for children and are gentle and loving companions to them. Due to its sensitive nature, the Sheltie reacts negatively to rough handling. He seeks and expects an answer from you and responds best when you answer him. Proper training, socialization, and play are all required on your part for your Sheltie to develop their full personality. Shelties have a certain charisma. They are loving, loyal, open communicative and never sneaky. They have a very genuine sense of humor and display a certain cheerfulness without being silly. With true character, the Sheltie is able to develop a relationship with its master based on mutual respect and understanding. This Sheltie may seem like “just another dog” to others because he only gets “turned on” to his special human, but the kinship becomes apparent when the dog and human work together. If you don’t appreciate the intricacies and communication of this type of human-canine relationship, you might want to consider another breed.
FOR A PET
The most important criteria when choosing a pet are temperament and good health. Your pet needs to be compatible with the people in your house – a bouncy, active Sheltie for a house full of kids; a quiet graceful one for granny. Choose a stable, sensible pup that you like. Trust the breeder’s judgment as they are the one who have raised these puppies and lived with them for 8 weeks and know their individual temperament and can help you choose the most suitable puppy for you.
If you are looking for an attractive family pet, you must decide whether it is a male or a female. Unlike some other breeds, there is little difference in temperament between the male and female Sheltie. Both are gentle, loving couch potatoes whose main desire is to please you. The female comes for the season every six to nine months. She should either be spayed or must be kept away from male dogs at this point. Sheltie males are just as affectionate, docile and gentle as the females and make good pets.
The age of the Sheltie you buy will depend on the dog’s intended use and the family’s lifestyle. If you lead a slightly unusual lifestyle or have a lot of young children, a young puppy is probably best suited. If your child is still a baby, you might want to opt for a 3 or 4 month old puppy. He can handle rougher housing but is still young enough to adapt easily. An older puppy or dog is usually partially trained and housebroken. He may be ideal for the person who doesn’t want the hassle of a young, mischievous puppy. Shelties of all ages tend to adapt to their new owners with ease.
FOR AN OBEDIENT DOG
There is only one place to go to buy a budding obedient pup – a reputable breeder. Find a breeder who has bred dogs that have achieved what you are trying to achieve. Of paramount importance is the role of the breeder from the birth of the puppies through the first 12 weeks of life…this is the most important time in a dog’s life. Socialization means that the dog should experience as many new adventures as possible under the most controlled situations. This obviously requires a knowledgeable dog person. The top working dog is sensitive and responds exceptionally to its owner. in the midst of strange sounds, people, and circumstances, he is steady and dependable. Choose the pup that is active, quick to respond, willing to please, has a natural curiosity and shows an affinity for people.
FOR BREEDING OR SHOWING
Shop with care, there are many “kennels” that have show quality puppies for sale that have never bred a champion or even owned an actual show quality dog. The price is not an indicator of quality. . On the other hand, don’t expect to find a show quality dog at a bargain price. A show dog is one that is good enough to win. .. if he is well conditioned, exercised and properly treated. Puppies are selected based on their head and body structure, the size, shape, and placement of their eyes and ears, expression, and other subtle traits only discernible to the trained eye. The puppy that is most attractive to you because it has a full white collar and beautiful blaze may be the least promising show candidate!
MARKINGS ARE ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CHARACTERISTICS OF A SHOW DOG! A selection of the litter pup is also not necessarily a show prospect. It might not be a very good throw! A show candidate is a puppy that the experienced breeder believes will meet the breed standard ideal close enough to one day earn the coveted title of champion.
Purchasing breeding stock will be paramount to your future success. It is not a company to be taken lightly. Your basic stock will greatly influence the style, quality and consistency of the Shelties you produce in later years. You need to know the breed standard, different bloodlines, subtypes and KNOW WHAT YOU WANT BEFORE YOU BUY.
WHERE AND HOW TO BUY A PUPPY
Buy your Sheltie from a local, experienced breeder-shower! His number one goal is to produce the perfect Sheltie and he spares no expense in trying to breed the best Sheltie he can. His breeding animals will be of good quality and his dogs will be well cared for. The kennel will be clean, the dogs will be healthy and alert with healthy temperaments and he will be happy to show them to you. Make an appointment in advance so he has enough time to show you his dogs. You can view the puppies’ pedigree prior to purchase and you should expect to see numerous champions in that pedigree. When you buy a puppy you will receive their diet, a record of their vaccinations, their pedigree and their registration application or certificate. The breeder will likely suggest that you have the puppy examined by your vet within 48 hours for your mutual protection. Breeding top dogs is an expensive hobby! If he’s lucky, the breeder’s income from the sale of his puppies and stud fees can cover his expenses. For all this you pay no more and probably less than in a pet shop.
What is the lifespan of a Sheltie?
The Sheltie has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years and may be prone to minor concerns like patellar luxation, allergies, hypothyroidism, Legg-Perthes, canine hip dysplasia, hemophilia, trichiasis, cataract, Collie eye anomaly, and progressive retinal atrophy, or a major one like dermatomyositis.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
Physical Properties
The Shetland has an inquiring, intelligent, gentle and expressive character. Although it looks like a miniature version of Rough Collie, it also has some differences. This agile German Shepherd has a small body that is long in relation to its size. Its gait is ground covering, smooth, effortless and instills good speed, agility and stamina required in a herding dog. Its double coat consists of a dense, soft, short undercoat that effectively keeps the Sheltie comfortable in both cold and warm environments, with a straight, long, harsh outer coat that sheds rain and moisture. The mane, tail and ruff are profusely hairy, with the mane growing to impressive sizes, particularly on male Shelties. Colors are diverse. The two main colorations are sable – a mix of dark and light brown with white – or blue merle with grey, white and black. The Sheltie can be as small as 12 inches and as tall as 16 inches, but either way, it’s considered a small dog.
personality and temperament
This breed enjoys human company and reciprocates kindness with loyalty and affection. As well as being playful, gentle, companionable and lovable, this dog is well behaved with children, although they can sometimes bite their heels when playing if not trained otherwise. Older Shelties may not be as comfortable with children if they are not used to them and in these cases the dog should be guarded around active children to avoid unintended defensive behavior from the dog. The Sheltie is often shy and reserved with strangers, and will let themselves be spoken to about it if need be. Although a tendency to bark too much is considered a fault by some, it is this trait that makes the Sheltie an excellent guard dog. The Shetland Sheepdog is extremely alert, sensitive and always ready to please. These traits make it a quick and obedient learner that has the added value of being devoted to and protective of its family.
Care
The Shetland Sheepdog can live outside in temperate climates, but they do very well as house dogs. His thick double coat needs to be combed or brushed at least every other day and washed at least once a week. This dog is very energetic, but a regular routine that includes a short jog, a good long walk, or an active training and play session can meet their physical and mental exercise needs. Without daily exercise, the Sheltie can become anxious and nervous. It is important for this breed to expend their energy so that they can relax at home with their family at the end of the day.
Health
The Sheltie has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years and can be prone to minor issues such as luxating patella, allergies, hypothyroidism, Legg-Perthes, canine hip dysplasia, hemophilia, trichiasis, cataracts, collie eye anomaly, and progressive retinal atrophy or a large one like dermatomyositis. Occasionally, this breed can suffer from epilepsy, von Willebrand disease, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and deafness. Eye, hip, DNA and thyroid tests are recommended. Some may not tolerate ivermectin. A merle should not be bred to another merle, as homozygous merles can be harmful and fatal.
history and background
The Shetland Sheepdog has its roots in the herding dogs of Scotland, which were also the ancestors of the Border Collie and Collie. Some of these early collie dogs were very small, around 18 inches tall. A mix of different breeds, some of which are still unknown, went into the composition of the Sheltie. Some of the suggested breeds are the Spitz, the King Charles Spaniel and the Pomeranian, but as with any breed that was created to work in a harsh environment, it must possess distinct traits that capture both assertiveness and a gentle touch the Shetland Sheepdog came into its own over time as the ideal puppies continued to be bred until the breed was pure. Of course, the Scotch Collie also played a role in the creation of this breed, and the Sheltie’s beautiful appearance is due to this crossbreed. The Shetland had several duties in the Shetland Islands. As a shepherd and protector of livestock, guarding the crops and a guard dog for the home, warning the family of intruders.
The Sheltie found some popularity outside the Isles, with Britain’s naval fleet taking puppies home after their military drills in the Isles. These early dogs were known as Toonie dogs (Toon was the native Shetland word meaning farm), Lilliputian Collies and Peerie Dogs. Around 1906 they were published as Shetland Collies, but collie breeders disapproved of the breed’s inclusion as they consisted of such a mixture of breeds, and Shetland breeders took the more appropriate nickname Sheepdog instead. The American Kennel Club (AKC) accepted the Shetland Sheepdog for registration in 1911.
In the early years of England, many breeders often inconspicuously crossed rough-coated Collies and Shelties to improve the characteristics of their breeds. However, oversized shelties were made as a result of this practice, and it was stopped. Following the Collie’s tremendous popularity, the Shetland Sheepdog became popular with families who wanted a similar, smaller-sized pet.
How long should you walk a Sheltie?
How much exercise does a Shetland Sheepdog need? The Kennel Club describes the Shetland Sheepdog as “virtually tireless.” They always like to be on-the-go and are very active requiring up to 1 hour of exercise a day, but will never say no to more.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
What is a Shetland Sheepdog?
Native to north-east Scotland, the Shetland Sheepdog, also known as the Sheltie, is a type of herding dog. They have a thick coat that’s built to withstand the winter elements, and they come in a variety of colors including blue merle, tri-color, and sable.
If you’re looking to brush up on your Shetland Sheepdog knowledge, these books might come in handy.
How Much Exercise Does a Shetland Sheepdog Need?
The Kennel Club describes the Shetland Sheepdog as “virtually tireless”. They are always on the go and very active, requiring up to 1 hour of exercise a day, but they never say no to more.
“Ruby is a very energetic Sheltie who loves to go on extra long walks and does a lot of exercise, but she also loves snuggling on the couch and sleeping in our bed!” – Emma, owner of Ruby.
What is the temperament of a Shetland Sheepdog?
The Sheltie is a glamorous and intelligent dog that is very cheerful and irritable. They are always ready to please and are hardworking. According to The Kennel Club, Shelties are affectionate towards their owners but can be a bit aloof around strangers.
“Brodie is a wonderfully loving and kind Sheltie. He loves walks, playtime and lounging. Brodie is very well socialized and loves meeting new dogs! He has a calming effect on people and is an absolute delight to be around.” – Ben, owner of Brodie.
Are Shetland Sheepdogs easy to train?
Due to their alert nature and herding history, the Sheltie is relatively easy to train. Often used as farm dogs, they make great family pets and many are trained for agility.
“Indie is a very well behaved Sheltie who is a competitive agility dog!” – Monica, owner of Indie.
That being said, here are a few fun quirks some of our members’ pooches have:
Jessica, owner of Pero:
“Pero lives up to his ‘shepherd’ breed and won’t let off the leash around sheep!”
Lili, owner of Shanti:
“Shanti loves cats more than anything and food is always close to her heart!”
Carole, owner of Finlay:
“Finlay is very handsome and he knows it – everywhere he goes he gets a lot of fuss and attention.”
The most common Shetland Sheepdog names on BorrowMyDoggy:
Meryl
Angus
Luke
tammy
Finlay
Does your Shetland Sheepdog’s coat get all over your furniture and carpets? Here’s a quick, easy cleaning trick 🙂
Why do Shelties sleep on their backs?
So, why do they do it? Lying sprawled out on their backs shows they are super relaxed and have their guard down. In animal psychology, this position is submissive. It shows they are feeling safe and secure by allowing their vulnerable body parts (chest, throat, stomach) open to attack.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
By Becky Casale | About | Article | e-book
Why do Shelties sleep on their backs with all four paws in the air? Many dog breeds do this – and there are psychological reasons for this very vulnerable attitude.
Shelties have the amusing trait of sleeping on their backs with their legs akimbo. It’s not a unique trait to the breed (many dogs do), but they look especially fun when all their fur is sticking up. I recently asked Sheltie Planet readers to submit their Shelties that sleep on their backs and look oh-so-relaxed.
Why do Shelties sleep on their backs?
Shelties sleep in all sorts of positions – on their side, on their stomachs, curled up with their nose in their tails, and sometimes on their backs with all four paws up in the air. So why are they doing it?
Lying stretched out on their back shows they are super relaxed and alert. In animal psychology, this position is subservient. It shows that they feel safe and secure by opening their vulnerable body parts (chest, neck, abdomen) to attacks. This is still an important instinct for dogs who, despite being domesticated, still nurture many of their wild instincts at the gut level.
Another reason Shelties may sleep on their backs is to cool off. Unlike humans, who sweat through their skin, dogs can only sweat through the pads of their paws. They also pant with their tongues out to cool off. Since the belly has the least undercoat, sleeping on the belly can also expose the skin to cool air.
If your dog is a sound sleeper on his back, it’s best to heed the old adage, “leave the dog sleeping” so you don’t disturb his blissful slumber. However, when your sheltie is awake and playing, rolling on its back is often a request for a tummy rub.
How much does a mini Sheltie cost?
Prices range from $1750-4000 depending upon registration, sex, color and size. AKC Toy Shelties are usually $1850-4000; non-AKC are usually $1750-2000.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
I actually bought Blue from a breeder who swore he was 11″ tall and 5kg (he was 5 years old when I bought him). You can imagine my shock when I arrived at the airport. The breeder refused to take him back claiming he WAS the smallest Sheltie they have ever had. When the pictures were shown they agreed that maybe he was bigger than my dogs.
Although a sweet soul, Blue was not well socialized and ran in circles and was petrified of other people and our horses. He was also a product of breeding a full brother and sister (they swore he had no closely related dogs in his pedigree). Fortunately, a nice family wrote to me and offered to adopt him. After a long meeting (to make sure Blue was comfortable) they took him home and he was a great addition to their family.
Please remember that although the parents are ‘toy sized’ we have some puppies in ‘teacup’ (8-10″ fully grown), some ‘toy’ (10-12 1/2″ fully grown) and some ‘miniature’ be able. (12 1/2-13 1/2″ mature) puppies in the same litter. We present the weights to give you the best prediction of your pup’s mature size. We believe that diversity in the gene pool gives the advantage of “narrow ” predominates. Breeding for size: Really closely bred dogs can retain positive traits of a line, such as size, but also negative traits of that line, such as recessive heart defects, thyroid abnormalities, hip problems and temperament problems. Generally accepted practice, we risk size discrepancies for health reasons. We do not breed close relatives together!
We also feed our Shelties very well. I had an incredible experience and found out firsthand that breeders withhold food from puppies to keep their size small. Our puppies (and adults) are fed as much as they desire with frequent small meals. Our adults move a lot so we don’t have an issue with the weight (except for Cassie who is a bit chubby). Our weights are accurate and reasonable for you to expect. Our dogs are also fit and muscular so if they spend their days on a couch they could be a bit lighter too. We do not withhold food from any of our dogs! Our dogs will mature to the right size of their genes.
As I said above, healthy puppies/dogs are our first priority, if they are small that’s a bonus!
Is there a miniature Sheltie?
There is NO such thing as a miniature Sheltie, toy Sheltie, or teacup Sheltie, period. These terms were made up by unethical breeders trying to sell small Shelties.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
There is NO Miniature Sheltie, Toy Sheltie, or Teacup Sheltie, period. These terms were invented by unethical breeders trying to sell small Shelties. If you want a small Sheltie, it’s best to get one from a reputable breeder right away. A number of different sized Shelties are often produced in one litter.
Someone who claims to have “miniature shelties,” “miniature collies,” or “toy-sized” dogs either doesn’t really know what a sheltie or collie is, or they are deliberately misleading you. Regardless, this is not a breeder you should buy a puppy from.
There are also unscrupulous people who breed Shelties with other “toy” breeds to create Sheltie mixes that are then advertised as “miniature Shelties.” Of course, the resulting puppies look very different from what the Shetland Sheepdog Breed Standard dictates. There are other backyard breeders who breed runts to have smaller shelties with each generation. Neither is a healthy practice and these small Shelties often have more medical issues than the regular sized Shelties due to their size AND the fact that the breeder’s primary concern is size rather than health or correct structure.
A key reason for this teacup dog fashion is the desire to create designer dogs – dogs created for their novelty value. This type of breeding always takes place in puppy mills (which supply puppies from pet stores) and by backyard breeders. These operations are for profit only. This is bad for Shelties as a whole as it dilutes the quality of the Shetland Sheepdog breed as these Miniature Shelties do not meet AKC standards.
Unethical breeding also produces a laundry list of health problems. Most Shelties they created will have shorter lifespans after expensive vet bills and heartbreak from the owner. These bad breeders also think they can charge inflated prices that can run into the thousands! Did you know that this is the price range you would pay for a quality show dog from a breeder who adheres to the AKC standard? For that price, you might as well go straight to a reputable breeder!
Miniature Shelties Have Health Issues While it’s not unique to Shetland Sheepdogs or even dogs in general, the act of miniaturization often has negative health and temperament implications. Some of the problems these dogs can experience are both genetic and congenital: Hydrocephalus (water in the brain) – causes bulging eyes, unsteadiness, vomiting and seizures.
Weak bones prone to fractures.
Hypoglycemia – this requires lifelong medication.
Open fontanelles – soft patch of skull bone that does not form.
Portosystemic Shunts – Abnormal vessel that allows blood to bypass the liver.
heart problems
Collapsing trachea
blindness
Luxating the patella
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease: osteonecrosis of the femoral head.
Digestive problems PLEASE find out before buying a small puppy whether it is a Shetland Sheepdog or another breed. They could be broken for months or years, not to mention the staggering vet bills!
What is the difference between a Collie and a Sheltie?
The most obvious difference between the two breeds is size. According to the Collie breed standard, female Collies are 22-24 inches at the shoulders and males are 24-26. In contrast, Shelties of either sex stand 13-16 inches at the shoulders. So, it’s no surprise they differ in weight as well.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
More than a toy collie
Patt Caldwell, who has been a member of the Collie Club of America since 1975 and has chaired the club’s Breed Education Committee for 14 years, says people often confuse the two breeds. “People often mistakenly call a Sheltie a ‘miniature collie’ or a ‘toy collie.’ The Shetland Sheepdog is a distinct, distinctive breed.”
However, she believes the dogs have a lot in common, from their looks to their personalities and heritage. “Both breeds are alert herding dogs, developed to protect and care for livestock and field animals. They are double-coated dogs with similar coat textures; Therefore, their grooming is similar. Both breeds are highly intelligent and are valued as family companions.”
Greg Speeks, a 37-year Shetland Sheepdog breeder and current president of the American Shetland Sheepdog Association, agrees with Caldwell that the two breeds have a lot in common that can confuse people. “The Shetland Sheepdog is most commonly confused with a collie, or referred to as a mini collie.”
The confusion stems from the strong resemblance each race bears to the other. As Speeks explains: “The Shetland Sheepdog breed standard states that, in size and general appearance, the Shetland Sheepdog bears the same relation to the Rough Collie as the Shetland Pony bears to some of the larger horse breeds. Both breeds have a similar coat type and come in a variety of colors. Both are herding breeds and can excel in a variety of events such as conformation, performance or therapy. Both can be excellent companions and loving family members.”
Physical and personality differences
The most obvious difference between the two breeds is size. According to the collie breed standard, female collies are 22-24 inches at the shoulders and males are 24-26. In contrast, Shelties of both sexes stand 13-16 inches at the shoulders. So it’s no wonder that they also differ in weight. The smaller Sheltie weighs between 15 and 25 pounds versus the Collie’s 50-65 pounds for females and 60-75 pounds for males. Speeks thinks the Sheltie’s smaller size could be an advantage for those living in urban areas.
Caldwell points out that the two breeds also have other physical differences, such as: B. Eye shape, eye position and the stop (where the snout meets the forehead). But that’s not all – the two dogs also have different temperaments. “While Shelties are attached to and very devoted to their family, a Sheltie is often reserved with strangers. A Sheltie will assess the situation, while a Collie will tend to approach it.”
Common herding history
According to Caldwell, the Collie was developed in Scotland, Ireland and England as a working/herding dog. Their value came to light in the 16th century when sheep and cattle made up a large part of the economy. “The importance of the wool industry called for an agile dog versatile in its ability to keep fleeing sheep calm and under control. Likewise, cattle required a dog brave enough to herd unruly cattle, which were also easily frightened. The dog’s ability to read the sheep and cattle, to respond immediately to their master’s commands and to think for themselves made the collie a valuable asset.”
The two Collie varieties, the Rough and the Smooth, are a result of where the dogs were traditionally used. Caldwell clarifies: “The Rough Collie was more commonly used for work in the fields and pastures, while the Short-Haired Smooth Collie was developed to work the rougher areas of the countryside and herd sheep and cattle to market. Here a short coat needed less maintenance.”
The Shetland Sheepdog shares the Collie’s herding origins, and its purpose is right in its name. Speeks explains that the early Shelties were used to breed Shetland sheep, a small and agile breed of sheep. “The Sheltie is a relatively new breed compared to others. The breed originally comes from the Shetland Islands, which were remote and sparsely populated. The animals living there had to be hardy due to the windy climate and sparse vegetation.”
Intelligent and dedicated companions
Speeks believes that most Sheltie owners would say that the definitive characteristics of the breed are their beauty, brains, and loyalty. He says: “While personalities in Shelties can vary like humans, most are loyal, affectionate, highly intelligent and often energetic. Shelties are friendly and want to please. They are not an aggressive breed. Sharing your life with a Sheltie is like sharing your life with your best friend. They understand you, love you regardless of your mood and are always happy to see you.”
According to Caldwell, the collie’s defining characteristics are its intelligent curiosity and concern for the emotions and needs of its human family. She describes them as intuitive, gentle and loving companions. “Collies make exceptional canine family members. They have a pleasant, easy-going personality and are pleasers. Collies train easily and have a sense of humor. Often they’ll repeat an act that made you laugh, or they’ll look you straight in the face and wildly wag their tails with what appears to be a canine smile on their face.”
These two handsome shepherds would make faithful additions to your family. They are great with kids and easy to train. Just be prepared to provide plenty of mental and physical exercise. Whether you bring one of these breeds into your home or just bump into them on the street, now you can tell the difference between Collies, the true Lassies, and their smaller cousins, Shelties.
Picking Up Sheltie Puppy – Bay Area to Salt Lake City Roadtrip!
See some more details on the topic sheltie puppies bay area here:
Lorra Lee Shelties
LorraLee Shelties is a small hobby breeder of Shetland Sheepdogs since 1976. We are located in the San Francisco Bay Area and our family bought our first …
Source: www.lorraleeshelties.com
Date Published: 4/24/2021
View: 1502
9 Best Sheltie Breeders in California! (2022) – We Love Doodles
1. PuppySpot’s Sheltie Puppies For California · 2. Caitlin Shelties · 3. Karosel Shelties · 4. Relyt · 5. Marshland Shelties · 6. Primo Shelties · 7.
Source: welovedoodles.com
Date Published: 3/23/2021
View: 7982
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale Near San Francisco, CA
Find a Shetland Sheepdog puppy from reputable breeders near you in San Francisco, CA. Screened for quality. Transportation to San Francisco, CA available.
Source: www.gooddog.com
Date Published: 4/9/2022
View: 5322
Shetland Sheepdogs for Sale in San Francisco – Oodle – Dogs
Hello We have a week-old beautiful female Sheltie puppy available for adoption. Parents are on site. Will go home with the first set of vaccine shots …
Source: dogs.oodle.com
Date Published: 11/19/2021
View: 9194
KAROSEL SHELTIES – Facebook
KAROSEL SHELTIES, Santa Maria, California. 1759 likes · 16 talking about this. Karosel Shelties is a mother-daughter and granddaughter team; Robin…
Source: www.facebook.com
Date Published: 8/10/2021
View: 6360
About Us – Caitlin Shelties
Member of the American Shetland Sheepdog Association and the Shetland Sheepdog Club of Northern California. Our goal is to produce Shelties that conform to …
Source: www.caitlinshelties.com
Date Published: 12/25/2022
View: 7967
Shetland Sheepdog Puppies for Sale in San Francisco, CA
Check our Shetland Sheepdog puppies from the best Shetland Sheepdog breeders in … 7 weeks. Shetland Sheepdog Puppy Finnegan. Champion Bloodlines. Finnegan.
Source: www.puppyspot.com
Date Published: 9/6/2021
View: 3455
Shetland Sheepdog Puppies For Sale In California
Shetland Sheepdog Puppy Breeders in California ; Marshland Shelties, Los Angeles Area, CA, (661) 269-5373, ; LorraLee Shelties, San Francisco Bay Area, CA,.
Source: www.localpuppybreeders.com
Date Published: 12/9/2021
View: 7382
Hillstone Shelties
Home page of Hillstone Shelties, a breeder from Gardnerville, NV. AKC Champion Shetland Sheepdogs.
Source: hillstoneshelties.com
Date Published: 2/17/2022
View: 6830
Home
LorraLee Shelties has been a small hobby breeder of Shetland Sheepdogs since 1976. We are located in the San Francisco Bay Area and our family bought our first Sheltie in 1970. Our puppies are hand raised and our aim is to breed healthy Shelties for the conformation show ring, performance venues or as great companions. Champion LorraLee’s Diamonds N’ Lace finished in the Bred By Exhibitor class; owner/breeder handled. We carry out all the appropriate tests and veterinary checks before each breeding. Puppies are vet checked and sold with an AKC registration and spay/neuter contract with health guarantees. Service puppies and young adults may be available from time to time. If you have any questions about Shelties in general, the Sheltie rescue, or upcoming events, visit our Contact Us page. We hope you enjoy getting to know some of our Shelties, past and present.
9 Best Sheltie Breeders in California! (2022)
Here’s what you need to know when looking for the best sheltie breeders in California. Originally bred as guard dogs for farmers in Shetland, Shelties are now popular as family companions.
They are very energetic and thrive in sports. Although Shetland Sheepdogs (Sheltie) are affectionate, they can be protective of their owners.
Before you scroll down this list of Sheltie breeders in California, check out these other breeder recommendations: Best Italian Greyhound Breeders in California and Best Beagle Breeders in California.
Sheltie puppies for sale in California
If this is the dog for you, make sure you adopt one from a reputable breeder. With the sheer number of puppy mills on the market, finding one can be a bit difficult. But we’ve narrowed your search with this list of the best sheltie breeders.
1. PuppySpots Sheltie puppies for California
Since you’re looking for sheltie breeders in California, it’s worth checking out PuppySpot. PuppySpot is a reputable platform to help you search for available Shetland Sheepdog puppies from the comfort of your California home.
All Sheltie breeders with puppies listed on the platform must go through a screening process by PuppySpot so you can be assured your dog will be safely delivered to you in California.
Before continuing your search for a Shetland Sheepdog puppy for sale in California, check out the marketplace link below.
PuppySpot details
Website: PuppySpot’s Shelties
: PuppySpot Shelties phone number: (866) 269-1056
2.Caitlin Shelties
Caitlin Shelties is a top Shetland Sheepdog breeder based in San Jose, California. This breeder is a member of the Shetland Sheepdog Club of Northern California and the American Shetland Sheepdog Association. They aim to breed Shetland Sheepdogs that meet the standards of the Northern California Shetland Sheepdog Club and the American Shetland Sheepdog Association.
Shelties from this kennel are often beautiful, well-behaved, intelligent and healthy. At Caitlin Shelties, all dogs are raised in the home and given all the attention and care they need. This breeder considers all dogs family members. They specialize in breeding white and sable Shetland Sheepdogs.
They produce about 2 to 4 litters per year. Here you will find show quality bitches who can excel in the ring. All of their dogs get enough exercise every day and are well socialized. Adult Shetland Sheepdogs are also comfortable indoors. This breeder takes his dogs to dog shows.
Your dogs are very comfortable with unfamiliar faces. They have excellent temperaments and if you are interested in adopting any, contact this breeder. They will respond to your email with useful information to help you adopt the perfect puppy for you.
Caitlin Shelties details
Address: San Jose, CA
: San Jose, CA Website : Caitlin Shelties
: Caitlin Sheltie’s email: [email protected]
3. Carosel Shelties
Karosel Shelties is another top breeder in the state of California. It consists of Jennifer McFarlin, Robin McTaggart and Jade Molina. The kennel is filled with many beautiful Shetland Sheepdogs looking to move to a new, well-deserved home. Aside from their beauty, people love Karosel Shelties dogs because of their high intelligence and loyalty.
This breeder started making shelties in 1990. They do their best to breed healthy, healthy dogs with excellent temperaments. Karosel Shelties is always ethical in its methods and carries out all required testing. So you can be sure that you will get a puppy from here that will live a long time.
Check shelties details
4. Relit
Kristina Rickard runs this beautiful Shetland Sheepdogs home. The professional handler has many recognitions and is an AKC Breeder of Merit. Relyt is a member of the Shasta Kennel Club and the American Brittany Club.
They started breeding Shelties in 2014 and have since produced many high quality dogs. Relyt has an excellent breeding program aimed at producing the next top winning dog.
If you are interested in adopting a puppy from them, please feel free to give them a call. They should know that they need some personal information from you.
This will help them find the perfect match for you. All dogs at Relyt are vet checked and have a health guarantee. Once you have completed your application, Kristina will respond with information on pricing, availability and the steps required.
Relyt details
Address: Bella Vista CA, 96008
: Bella Vista CA, 96008 Telephone: (530) 351-2412
: (530) 351-2412 Website: Relyt
5. Marshland Shelties
Marshland Shelties is home to some of California’s finest Shetland Sheepdogs and is owned and operated by Marsha Wheatcroft and Daniel Wheatcroft. With over forty years of experience, this kennel proves to be one of the best places to get a healthy pup.
The breeder is very dedicated and has produced more than 50 champions in a variety of colours. The AKC registered breeder has guided many Shetland Sheepdogs to their championships.
Marshland Shelties are also a proud member of the Collie Club of America, Inc and the American Shetland Sheepdog Association.
If this is your chosen breeder for a Shetland Sheepdog, you should get in touch with them and send in your application. They are always ready to answer your puppy adoption questions.
Marshland Shelties details
6. Primo Shelties
Primo Shelties, formerly known as Nina, began breeding in 1967. This breeder is very experienced and has produced many high quality Shetland Sheepdogs. They have acquired many sheltie champions and filled their homes with puppies from champion bloodlines.
Puppies from this kennel are vet checked and free of genetic health issues. Primo Shelties use only high quality parent stock for breeding to ensure they produce the healthiest litter. This breeder has won many awards including Best of Breed ASSA National and Best In Show to WB.
They also won the Top Best of Breed CH. The Hidden Treasure of Victory, CC. If you live in Northern California, right in the San Francisco Bay Area, Primo Shelties might be the best place to get your Sheltie. The kennel is on a small farm just a few acres where dogs exercise and play.
But that doesn’t limit the way the breeder cares for their dogs. Primo Shelties has been a member of the Shetland Sheepdog Club of Northern California for over 36 years. The breeder currently serves as President of the SSCNC and also holds other offices.
Primo Shelties details
Address: Morgan Hill, CA 95038
7. Sea Haven Shelties
Nestled in Tracy, California, Sea Haven Shelties is owned by Yvonne Samuelson. This kennel is home to many beautiful and intelligent Shetland Sheepdogs. All dogs in this kennel get a lot of attention and care.
The breeder does their best to ensure all dogs are well socialized and healthy before moving to their permanent homes. If you are interested in adopting a Sheltie from Sea Haven Shelties, you should reach out to them. You’ll get information on pricing, availability and everything you need to get started.
Sea Haven Shelties details
8. Shetland Sheepdogs by Anne De Witt
This kennel is among the best you can find in sunny California. Anne De Witt’s Shetland Sheepdogs are home to many high quality puppies. Their goal is to fill many new homes with the joy that their dogs have brought to them. They aim to breed healthy and happy dogs that will thrive in whatever area they choose.
Anne De Witt’s Shetland Sheepdogs breed their dogs to be loyal, active companions. Puppies from this breeder are intuitive, structurally sound, and have wonderful temperaments. They place a high value on expanding the gene pool, health and longevity.
You should apply on their website if you are interested in buying one of their Shetland Sheepdogs. They make sure potential puppy buyers find the perfect match by asking them questions about themselves.
After you submit your application, that breeder will respond with information on pricing, availability, and the steps required. This kennel does not put potential puppy owners on a waiting list. As soon as you contact Anne De Witt’s Shetland Sheepdogs you will know when the next litter will be available.
Details of the Shetland Sheepdogs by Anne De Witt
Address: Phelan, CA
: Phelan, CA Website: Shetland Sheepdogs by Anne De Witt
9. Shantel Shelties
Last on the list of Sheltie breeders in California is Shantel Shelties. Shantel Shelties carefully plan each litter to produce the best possible Shelties. Their dogs are known to be healthy in both temperament and structure.
They aim to breed high quality, well behaved Shetland Sheepdogs. All of their dogs come with a health guarantee, and their puppies are sold on limited registration with spay or neuter contracts.
Shantel Shelties details
Address : Northeast of Los Angeles, San Bernardino foothills
: Northeast of Los Angeles, San Bernardino Foothills Website : Shantel Shelties
: Shantel Sheltie’s email: [email protected]
Conclusion for “California’s Best Sheltie Breeders”
Shelties are very affectionate, but still protective of their owners. They make excellent companion dogs and do well with people who can meet their exercise needs.
If you’re looking to bring a Sheltie into your home, we’ve rounded up some of the best breeders for you. We are happy to help you with your puppy adoption. So choose from our list.
For other guides similar to this list of California sheltie breeders, see:
Before you buy a Sheltie puppy from a California breeder, you can learn more about the breed by checking out “8 Things Only Sheltie Dog Owners Understand” below:
Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale in San Francisco, CA from trusted breeders
About good dog
Good Dog makes it easy to discover Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale near San Francisco, CA. Find the Shetland Sheepdog puppy of your dreams at one of Good Dog’s trusted Shetland Sheepdog breeders in San Francisco, CA and begin the application process today.
Related searches to sheltie puppies bay area
Information related to the topic sheltie puppies bay area
Here are the search results of the thread sheltie puppies bay area from Bing. You can read more if you want.
You have just come across an article on the topic sheltie puppies bay area. If you found this article useful, please share it. Thank you very much.
