Are Shelties For Everyone?
Based on an
article by Trini Gilmore
In truth the Shetland
Sheepdog is NOT a breed that fits into all households. Naturally,
Shelties have a wide range of personality traits that cannot be "lumped"
under one description. However, there are certain traits that are fairly
universal to the breed.
1. Shelties are very
verbal.
2. Shelties are reserved by nature and early socialization is needed to
keep them from being shy.
3. Shelties are extremely loyal either to one person or one family.
4. Shelties are sound sensitive and sound reactive.
5. Shelties will chase (in attempt to herd) anything that moves.
6. Shelties are very bright and need to be given something to occupy
their mind and bodies. Many will invent a "job" if they are not given
one.
7. Shelties do not like to spend time away from their people. A Sheltie
that is left alone all day is usually not a very happy little dog.
8. Shelties are an emotional breed. They are very sensitive to the moods
of their people. They do best in a home where gentleness is the way of
life.
9. Shelties are an active breed and need exercise everyday. They need
more than a 10-minute walk around the block.
10. Shelties need regular biweekly (minimum) grooming and they shed
extensively.
If someone is looking
for a very laid back, not particularly sensitive, doesn't really care if
you are coming or going, low maintenance, average intelligence dog…they
would find the Sheltie exasperating, to say the least.
Shelties demand to be an integral part of the family to which they
belong. They stick their noses into everyone's business and feel
compelled to make comments on their observations.
They will follow their person to the corner of the earth and ALWAYS into
the bathroom.
They consider you leaving them behind as an aberration of proper
behavior and will voice their disapproval…loud and long…often
accompanied by frantic twirling and jumping.
They are selective as to which of your friends is worthy of their
affection, and which are to be observed from a distance, before a
verdict is rendered.
They will steal FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD, right out of the mouths of babes,
and show no shame.
They will give chase, if not properly restrained, to any and all moving
objects.
They will sense your every mood and will be happy and sad along with
you.
They love attention and they love to learn.
In short, they demand nothing less than being a FULL member of your
family…they do not consider themselves mere dogs (banish the thought!).
So if you are
considering bringing a Sheltie or, Shelties, into your family, be
prepared to spend a lot of time, energy and love on this new member…for
that is what they need. In return they will give you some of the most
wonderful moments of your life, and memories you will cherish forever.
