Bringing a new Sheltie into your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience. These intelligent and affectionate dogs make great companions, but they also have unique needs and characteristics that you should be aware of before bringing one home. Whether you are adopting a rescue or purchasing a puppy, here are 12 things to know before bringing home a new Sheltie.
1. Shelties are a herding breed
Shelties were originally bred to herd sheep and have strong herding instincts. This means that they may try to herd children or other pets in the home, and they may nip at heels or ankles. Proper training and socialization can help prevent this behavior, but it is important to be aware of it before bringing a Sheltie into your home.
2. Shelties have a thick coat
Shelties have a double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. Regular grooming is important to keep their coat healthy and to prevent matting. This grooming can take time and effort, so it is important to be prepared for the upkeep that a Sheltie’s coat requires.
3. Shelties are intelligent and trainable
Shelties are highly intelligent and trainable dogs. They excel in obedience and agility training, and they are quick learners. Training your Sheltie can be a fun and rewarding experience, and it can help prevent problem behaviors.
4. Shelties can be shy or anxious
Shelties can be shy or anxious around new people or in new situations. Proper socialization and training can help prevent these behaviors, but it is important to be patient and understanding with your Sheltie as they adjust to new situations.
5. Shelties need exercise and mental stimulation
Shelties are an active breed and require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. This can include walks, runs, playtime, and training sessions. It is important to provide your Sheltie with plenty of opportunities for physical and mental exercise.
6. Shelties can be prone to certain health issues
Like all breeds, Shelties can be prone to certain health issues. These can include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. It is important to research these health issues and to choose a reputable breeder or rescue organization to help minimize the risk of these health problems.
7. Shelties are good with children
Shelties are generally good with children and make great family pets. However, as mentioned earlier, their herding instincts may cause them to try to herd children, so it is important to supervise interactions between children and your Sheltie and to provide proper training and socialization.
8. Shelties can be vocal
Shelties can be vocal and may bark or whine to communicate. Proper training and socialization can help prevent excessive barking, but it is important to be aware of this characteristic before bringing a Sheltie into your home.
9. Shelties can be prone to separation anxiety
Shelties are a breed that can become attached to their owners and may be prone to separation anxiety. Proper training and socialization can help prevent this behavior, but it is important to be aware of it and to provide your Sheltie with plenty of attention and mental stimulation.
10. Shelties may require professional grooming
Due to their thick coat, Shelties may require professional grooming to keep their coat healthy and prevent matting. This can be an added expense and time commitment, so it is important to budget for professional grooming if necessary.
11. Look into pet insurance
As mentioned earlier, Shelties can be prone to certain health issues. Consider looking into pet insurance to help cover the cost of any unexpected medical expenses that may arise. Be sure to research different pet insurance providers and policies to find the best fit for you and your Sheltie.
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12. Look into dog training
Proper training and socialization are key to raising a well-behaved and happy Sheltie. Consider enrolling your Sheltie in obedience classes or working with a professional dog trainer to help prevent problem behaviors and to build a strong bond with your dog.
Check out the Best 7 Online Dog Training Programs here.
13. Make Sure These Products Are On Your Shopping List!
Bringing home a new Sheltie can be overwhelming, so we compiled a comprehensive list of every product you’ll need for your new Sheltie here.
FAQ for First-Time Sheltie Owners
What is the best age to adopt a Sheltie?
The best age to adopt a Sheltie depends on your individual lifestyle and preferences. Puppies require more time and attention for training and socialization, while older dogs may already have some training and be more settled in their behavior. Consider your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a companion before deciding on the age of your Sheltie.
How much exercise does a Sheltie need?
Shelties are an active breed and require at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can include walks, runs, playtime, and training sessions. However, some Shelties may require more exercise depending on their individual energy levels and needs.
How often should a Sheltie be groomed?
Shelties should be groomed at least once a week to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. They may also require professional grooming every few months depending on the length of their coat and how quickly it grows.
Do Shelties shed a lot?
Yes, Shelties have a double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. Regular grooming can help minimize shedding, but be prepared for some shedding throughout the year.
Are Shelties good with other pets?
Shelties can get along well with other pets if properly socialized and trained. However, their herding instincts may cause them to try to herd other pets, so it is important to supervise interactions and provide proper training and socialization.
Are Shelties good with children?
Yes, Shelties are generally good with children and make great family pets. However, their herding instincts may cause them to try to herd children, so it is important to supervise interactions and provide proper training and socialization.
Do Shelties make good apartment pets?
Shelties can adapt to apartment living if provided with enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, they are an active breed and may do better in a home with a yard or access to outdoor space. Consider your living situation and lifestyle before deciding if a Sheltie is the right fit for you.
Do Shelties have any health problems?
Like all breeds, Shelties can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. It is important to research these health issues and to choose a reputable breeder or rescue organization to help minimize the risk of these health problems.
Do Shelties require a lot of training?
Shelties are a highly trainable breed and enjoy learning new things. However, like all dogs, they require basic obedience training and socialization to prevent problem behaviors. Consider enrolling your Sheltie in obedience classes or working with a professional dog trainer to ensure they receive the proper training and socialization they need.
Do Shelties need a lot of attention?
Shelties are a social breed and thrive on attention and interaction with their owners. They may become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time, so it is important to provide them with plenty of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation.
Are Shelties easy to train?
Shelties are a highly trainable breed and are known for their intelligence and willingness to please their owners. However, like all dogs, they require consistent training and positive reinforcement to learn new behaviors and prevent problem behaviors.
How much does it cost to adopt a Sheltie?
The cost to adopt a Sheltie can vary depending on the organization you adopt from and the age and health of the dog. Adoption fees typically range from $100-$500, with additional expenses for food, grooming, and veterinary care.
What should I feed my Sheltie?
Shelties require a high-quality, balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels. Choose a dog food that is appropriate for their age, activity level, and health needs. Be sure to monitor their weight and adjust their diet as needed to prevent obesity.
How much does it cost to care for a Sheltie?
The cost to care for a Sheltie can vary depending on their individual needs and health. Be prepared to budget for expenses such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and pet insurance. The average cost of annual veterinary care for a Sheltie is around $500-$800.
Conclusion
Bringing home a new Sheltie can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it is important to be prepared for the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. By considering these 12 things before bringing home a new Sheltie, you can ensure that you are providing the best possible care for your new furry friend.
Remember to choose a reputable breeder or rescue organization, provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and consider enrolling your Sheltie in obedience classes or working with a professional dog trainer. With proper care and attention, your Sheltie can be a loyal and loving companion for years to come.
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