What kind of health problems do Shetland Sheepdogs have?
Shetland Sheepdogs are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, thyroid disease, eye diseases, dermatomyositis (Sheltie skin syndrome), von Willebrand’s disease (vWD), gallbladder mucoceles, and epilepsy.
What kind of dog is a Shetland sheep dog?
Proud and animated, the Shetland Sheepdog is a swift, light-footed runner and an agile, graceful jumper. Though on the small side, this breed has the heritage of an active herding dog and needs more exercise than many other smallish dogs. More importantly, Shelties need “mental exercise.”.
What kind of socialization does a Shetland Sheepdog need?
To build a confident temperament, the Shetland Sheepdog needs more extensive socialization than many other breeds. Shelties become unhappy when left for long periods of time without companionship, and unhappiness can translate to neurotic behaviors, destructive chewing, or chronic barking.
When did the American Shetland Sheepdog Association start?
The American Shetland Sheepdog Association, parent club of the breed, was organized at the Westminster Kennel Club in 1929, and held its first specialty show in 1933.
Shetland Sheepdogs are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, thyroid disease, eye diseases, dermatomyositis (Sheltie skin syndrome), von Willebrand’s disease (vWD), gallbladder mucoceles, and epilepsy.
Fans of the breed are sure to recognize these Sheltie traits. 1. He is the epitome of the herding dog. Developed in the rugged Shetland Islands, off the coast of Scotland, near the Arctic Circle, the Shetland Sheepdog was bred to be an agile, alert, and intelligent herder.
When did the Sheltie breed become a breed?
The Sheltie was officially recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1909 but did not receive separate classification from the Collie until 1914. The Shetland Sheepdog was recognized by the AKC in 1911 and is its 67th breed. The Shetland Sheepdog has been assigned the Herding Group designation.
The American Shetland Sheepdog Association, parent club of the breed, was organized at the Westminster Kennel Club in 1929, and held its first specialty show in 1933.
What kind of health problems does a Shetland Sheepdog have?
Quick list of Shetland Sheepdog health problems. Many Shelties are blind or vision-impaired, from hereditary eye diseases. Epilepsy and heart disease are serious concerns in Shelties. Also a severe blood-clotting disease. Both hip dysplasia and a degenerative hip disease called Legg-Calve-Perthes occur in Shelties.
Is the Shetland Sheepdog a good family dog?
The Shetland Sheepdog is a great family dog, but how friendly is it to new people? Herding dogs like the Sheltie can be reserved around strangers. So although your Sheltie will likely form strong bonds with its close family, it may not be the friendliest dog in public.
What should I do if my Shetland Sheepdog Barks?
If corrected too harshly, the Sheltie is the type of dog to go hide or cower in the corner, so this dog may require a more experienced owner or the assistance of a professional trainer. One of the more vocal breeds, owners should be prepared to teach the Shetland Sheepdog when barking is and is not appropriate.
Why does my Shetland Sheltie have bad skin?
Other skin conditions in Shelties stem from autoimmune diseases, where the immune system is defective and attacks its own skin. Autoimmune diseases that attack the skin in Shelties include pemphigus and lupus.