There are many dog breeds eager for the opportunity to hoard obedience points, or round up sheep. But there are only a few that are eager to do it to please their masters to the umost level, and the shetland sheepdog has got to be one of them!

On sight, the breed’s luxurious coat is the first important detail. But upon knowing it better, it may appear that it actually takes pains to please its master better! The sheltie will sometimes gravitate towards one family member as its favorite family member. But shelties tend to also grow aloof of others in the house that show again and again a hesitancy to spend more time with the dog. But in general, the sheltie’s day is made when it can actually meet its whole “pack,” in one room, enjoying each other’s company.

There are at least two main drawbacks to shelties. Aside from their notorious inclination to barking (if untrained), the sheltie may be wary of strangers. A sense of aloofness around strangers may look detrimental to some, but it is nonetheless permissible in the case of this breed. An example of a flaw is shyness or aggressiveness, which is not the same as a sheltie on its guard when strangers reach out for them. Shelties that initiate contact instead when they feel like it turn out friendly. The sheltie is however not the type of dog that is eager to greet each and every newcomer.

Shelties actually seem to be the most alive when playing and interacting with sensible and well-mannered children. Sometimes the dog plays with them, and other times simply watches them. But no chances must be taken when dogs will accompany toddlers and infants, since these will need supervision.

Shelties are not only versatile when it comes to work and recreation, but they can also blend into a range of family situations. The root of this must be that their complicated and tangled bloodlines have toned down most of their working drive.

Given their herding history, shelties will thrive the most when they have a job assignment at home. Aside from this, recreation is also important. Shelties will not take boring, repetitive tasks sitting down. These dogs will also appreciate creativity in games, e.g. at least two balls instead of the usual one. In any case, playing chase is a favorite game. In any case, there is no way to miss the importance of shetland sheepdog training.

Grooming is another consideration, but not a big worry among sheltie owners. All that is needed for a clean dog is the weekly thorough brushing, occasional baths and regular nail and dental care. If the coat is ignored, however, it will show definite signs of neglect.

All this implies that there is more challenge than most people think in zeroing in on the Sheltie that fits your needs the most. Focus on the dog that will fit in well with your family situation and life style. The obedience or work star may be more of a liability for a homebound person, while a retiree’s companion might suffer sadly in a family of rowdy pre-teens. When you get help from a veteran breeder, s/he will walk you through your top needs and priorities in order to flesh out the sheltie for you or dog breed for you.