Often called a miniature Collie, Shetland sheepdog puppies for sale are actually not at all a miniature collie. They are also called shelties. Their so called “parent breed” is actually a border collie. They are very good family dogs. If they are introduced to children from the time they are puppies they will be great with children, and they are also very protective. This breed can tend to be rather vocal. They can be under 13 inches or over 16 inches. However, they must be between 13 and 16 inches in order to be a show dog.

Shetland sheepdog puppies for sale will be a great companion. They are extremely loyal, intelligent, and very trainable. Shelties are very willing to learn, please and obey. All though they are affectionate with their families often times they are not fond of strangers, which is why they should be socialized from the puppy stage. They love to run in wide open spaces, and have a natural herding instinct. They’ll herd squirrels, children, ducks, and other animals. Shelties love to play!

If shetland sheepdog puppies for sale do not get enough exercise and intellectual stimulation they could develop behavior problems. They need plenty of exercise daily and they also need an owner who can be firm yet sensitive and calm. Out of 132 breeds the sheltie ranks number 6 in intelligence. They can live up to 15 years or longer with proper exercise, diet, and health care. This breed does have a tendency to eye disease and even deformation of the eye so they should be checked by a vet at a very young age.

Shetland sheep dog puppies for sale may develop a skin disorder between 4 and 6 months of age. It is known as Dermatomyositis and is often times misdiagnosed by vets. Hip dysplasia and Von Willebrand’s ( a blood disorder) are also common in shelties. So regular vet care is very important for these dogs because they can suffer from very serious health issues. As far as grooming goes, a regular brushing will be needed in order to prevent matting of their hair. Once a week is usually good enough.