The Sheltie: Affectionate and Intelligent Companion

Features and Facts

Appearance

Shelties are medium-sized dogs with an elegant and refined appearance. They have a long, double coat consisting of a dense, soft undercoat and a long, straight overcoat that is prominent at the collar, chest, and legs. They usually have an elegant expression with almond-shaped eyes and pointed ears.

Personality

Shelties are known for their friendly, affectionate, and intelligent nature. They are very loyal to their family and form strong attachments to their owners. Shelties are alert and agile, often having a natural inclination to herd, even without training. They thrive with ample mental stimulation and exercise and enjoy activities such as obedience, agility, and flyball.

Grooming

Due to their long, dense coat, Shelties require regular grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles, especially during shedding season. Their ears should also be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent ear infections. Shelties shed moderately year-round and have two heavier shedding periods per year.

Health

Overall, Shelties are healthy dogs, but they may be prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, eye issues such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and collie eye anomaly (CEA), and epilepsy. It's important to conduct regular veterinary check-ups and maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to preserve the health of your Sheltie.