Small breed
Shetland Sheepdog Puppies
The Shetland Sheepdog can also be called the Sheltie. The Sheltie is a breeding dog that originates from the Scottish Shetland Islands. Controversy trailed the nomenclature of the breed initially as ‘Shetland Collie’, this name format wasn’t accepted by the Rough collie breeders. It is a very hard-working small dog that is vocal, excitable, intelligent, and willing to please. Discover more about our Shetland Sheepdog puppies for sale below!
We do not have Shetland Sheepdog puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.
- Adult weight 24–40 lbs
- Height 13–16 in
- Lifespan 12–14 years
- Exercise 60 min a day
About the Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, is a small herding dog with a rich history originating from the Shetland Islands of Scotland. Bred primarily for their intelligence and agility, these dogs served to herd livestock and keep the flocks in check, which speaks to their natural instincts and capabilities. Today, they have become beloved family pets, known for their affectionate and gentle demeanor. As you consider adding a Sheltie to your home, you can expect a companion that thrives on family interaction and is known to be especially good with young children and other pets.
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With a moderately energetic disposition, Shelties enjoy regular exercise such as daily walks or playtime in the yard, allowing them to release their energy and stay healthy. Their apartment-friendly nature makes them adaptable to various living situations, provided they receive enough mental and physical stimulation. A weekly grooming routine will keep their beautiful, double coat looking its best, and while they do shed, it tends to be manageable. This striking blend of friendliness and intelligence also contributes to their high trainability, making them a joy to teach new tricks and commands.
Shelties are naturally inclined to bark, serving as alert watchdogs, but with proper training, they can be taught to control excessive barking. Their affectionate personality and desire to please their families make them a fulfilling addition to any home, whether you’re a first-time pet owner or have experience with dogs. As you welcome a Shetland Sheepdog into your life, be prepared for a loyal friend who will bring joy and companionship for many years to come.
Shetland Sheepdog breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Wary
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Territorial Territorial
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Prey drive Moderate
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Excellent
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
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Energy High
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Mental stimulation High
Training
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Trainability Eager to please
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness Biddable
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Light
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Drooling None to speak of
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Barking Vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Good
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Comfortable
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Warm weather Average
A good match for
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First-time owners Good first dog
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Senior owners Good
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Running partner Good
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Hiking Good
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Low
Living with a Shetland Sheepdog
Temperament & Family Fit
Shetland Sheepdogs, affectionately known as Shelties, have a lovely temperament that makes them perfect family companions. They're particularly great with young kids and other pets, including cats, which makes them a wonderful addition to your home. Their affectionate nature and eagerness to please ensure that they quickly become a beloved family member.
Energy & Exercise
With a moderate energy level, Shelties thrive on regular exercise, making daily walks a joy for both you and your furry friend. They love to play and engage in activities, so some games of fetch or agility training can really help burn off some energy. Luckily, they're quite adaptable, meaning they can live happily in apartments as long as they get their daily doses of mental and physical stimulation.
Care & Grooming
Though Shetland Sheepdogs do require weekly grooming to keep their beautiful double coat in check, it's pretty manageable and gives you an excellent chance to bond with your pet. Their shedding level is moderate, so with regular brushing, you can keep pet hair under control while enjoying their fluffy company. Overall, it’s a small investment of your time for a loving and loyal companion!
Training Notes
Training a Shetland Sheepdog is a rewarding experience since they are highly trainable and eager to learn. Their intelligence shines through, and with positive reinforcement, you can teach them various commands and tricks with ease. Just be prepared for their tendency to bark; it's in their nature to be excellent watchdogs, so a little patience and consistency will go a long way!
Caring for a Shetland Sheepdog
- Grooming
- Weekly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not considered hypoallergenic
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Shetland Sheepdog?
Shetland Sheepdogs are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 20 to 40 pounds. Their compact size makes them great companions for both families and individuals living in various environments.
Are Shetland Sheepdogs good with children and other pets?
Absolutely! Shetland Sheepdogs are known for their gentle nature, making them great with young kids. They're also friendly with other dogs and even cats, so you'll find they fit in well with family dynamics.
How much exercise do Shetland Sheepdogs need?
Shetland Sheepdogs have an energy level of about 4, so they enjoy daily walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. A good mix of physical activity and mental stimulation will help them thrive.
How often do I need to groom a Shetland Sheepdog?
You'll want to groom your Shetland Sheepdog on a weekly basis. Their beautiful coats benefit from regular brushing to minimize shedding and keep them looking their best.
Are Shetland Sheepdogs easy to train?
Yes! Shetland Sheepdogs are highly trainable, scoring a 5 on the trainability scale. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners, so you'll have a great time teaching them new commands and tricks.
