Owning A Shetland Sheepdog : Breeder Recommendations

Last updated Sep 30, 2020 0

The Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) can provide years of loving companionship to a family that is careful in selecting their puppy. The process begins with reading and learning all you can about this wonderful working breed.

An informed buyer goes to reputable breeders ready to ask questions and gather more information about how to care for the Sheltie. In addition, the owner of a Shetland Sheepdog puppy needs to be aware of the possible health problems that can affect this breed.

Things to Know Before Getting A Shetland Sheepdog

For this breed, you will find two good options for choosing the best dog for your family pet. One way is to start with a puppy from a top breeder who specializes in Shetland Sheepdogs. This will ensure that you are getting a strong, healthy puppy that will have few, if any, major health issues. In addition, a puppy from a good breeder will spend the first 8 weeks to 10 weeks of its life in a safe, happy environment.

A reputable breeder will spend plenty of time in these early weeks socializing the young dogs to be comfortable around other dogs and around people. This alone can go a long way toward giving a family the pet it has dreamed about.^

As you visit at least three top breeders, be prepared to ask questions about the possible health issues that come with the Shetland Sheepdog. These conditions can include eye problems, skin conditions and several other medical issues. A good breeder will not be reluctant to discuss these ideas and will in fact, be willing to discuss his breeding system.

Asking to see both parents of the puppy you are considering is highly recommended. This will give you an idea of the health and general temperament of the dog you may take home.

Remember that even though most puppies are cute and almost irresistible, it may be best not to choose the first puppy that seems to pick you. Sometimes the less aggressive or forward puppies make the best pet. This is something you should spend time on, to make sure that you and the breeder agree on your choice.

Ask to see documents on the parents and the health condition of the litter too. Many of the inherited diseases and conditions of the Sheltie can be detected at an early age. Not only that, but knowing the bloodlines of the litter will help you understand which conditions and diseases may occur.

Of course, a second choice for getting your new pet would be to go to a rescue source or Sheltie sanctuary. Many of the dogs from these locations are excellent pets that just did not have a real chance to make it in their first home. However, some unique challenges with getting a dog from the rescue source do exist.

Adult dogs come with a different set of challenges than does the puppy from a breeder. Even so, many owners find that their Shetland Sheepdog from a rescue organization is the greatest pet in the world, giving back the love and attention that it gets in the new home.

As you shop for a dog, remember that sometimes things do not work out the way they should. New owners should be prepared for the death of a young dog by having guarantees from the breeder.

One question that should be answered before you take the puppy home is this: Will I get my money back if the puppy dies or is seriously ill in a specific timeframe? You may also want to ask about getting a replacement, as some breeders make this a standard part of their contracts.

Whether you choose to get your new Sheltie from a breeder or from a rescue organization, always prepare yourself with plenty of knowledge beforehand. Be ready to ask questions when you talk with the breeder or rescue staff.

Having a lot of information up front may help you avoid problems later. It could be the difference between a great experience with your Shetland Sheepdog and a troubled experience.

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