Small breed
Shetland Sheepdog Puppies
Smart, affectionate pals for family adventures
- Adult weight 24–40 lbs
- Height 13–16 in
- Lifespan 12–14 years
- Exercise 60 min a day
1 available now
Available Shetland Sheepdog Puppies
About the Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, lovingly known as the “Sheltie,” hails from the rugged hills of Scotland where they were originally bred as herding dogs for sheep and other livestock. Their keen intelligence and remarkable agility have earned them a place not just in the fields, but also in the hearts of families around the world. With a friendly demeanor and a spirited personality, Shelties are naturally inclined to bond closely with their human companions, making them excellent additions to any family.
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Ideal for homes with children, these affectionate little dogs are known for their playful nature and patience. They thrive on companionship and are generally good with other pets, whether it’s cats or dogs, making them an ideal choice for families who already have furry friends. With their moderate energy levels, Shelties require regular exercise but also enjoy downtime, easily adapting to apartment living as long as their needs for play and activity are met.
Grooming your Sheltie is a fulfilling task since they only require weekly brushing to keep their beautiful double coat healthy and free from tangles. While they do shed moderately, their coat maintenance is manageable for most owners. Trainability is one of their standout qualities, as Shelties are quick learners who respond well to positive reinforcement. Their high intelligence paired with a desire to please means you will find joy in teaching them new tricks or commands, strengthening your bond while keeping their minds engaged.
If you are looking for a loyal, smart, and affectionate companion, the Shetland Sheepdog might just be the perfect fit. With their easy-going nature and wonderful adaptability, these charming dogs can turn any household into a loving and lively environment, creating lasting memories with you and your family.
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.
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