SHELTIE  TRAITS

The Shetland Sheepdog exhibits sensitivity and responsiveness

towards its owner.

Shelties are usually easy to train because of this sensitivity and

responsiveness. They like to learn and please their owners. Sensitivity does not mean that the Sheltie is overly sensitive, fearful or cowers to sounds, people, objects etc., although it may appear that way if they become very confused about what is expected. Training can also be tricky with Shelties, however, as they usually try their hardest to do what you want, but because of their sensitivity they can easily become confused if you become upset or impatient. They often try to do something before you ask (anticipate) in order to avoid your displeasure. If you are already frustrated and impatient, this only makes matters worse. Realize that your Sheltie wants to do what you ask... slow things down, go back to an easier task and let your Sheltie be successful before you quit working... then praise, play and relax with your Sheltie.

Shelties exhibit some rather unusual behaviors at times and if one is not aware of these, they can be somewhat surprising. Many Shelties grin...like a big smile on a person, Shelties sometimes bare their teeth in a huge grin. Don’t mistake this for an aggressive curling of the upper lip although it can look a bit like it. The situation it occurs in should tell whether it is a grin or a snarl. When Shelties are happy and relaxed or playing, they may grin. Some just smile, with their lips closed. Some Shelties talk to their people in whines, grunts, groans, and even quiet growls, especially when being petted. Again, assess the situation. If your Sheltie is relaxed, it is most likely talking to you, not being aggressive.

Another unique trait that some Shelties have is to cross their front feet when laying down. This can be quite an endearing behavior and females look especially ‘ladylike’ when doing so. Some use their front feet like hands to hold onto things such as chewies or to catch frisbees.

Your Sheltie may even have a sense of humor. Watch for little

practical jokes your Sheltie may play. You probably won’t believe this one until it happens to you.

It may be necessary to place your Sheltie in a crate/kennel when you go out for the well-being of everyone involved. Shelties want to be with you and are not happy when left alone for long periods of time.

Since Shelties were originally herding dogs, many still exhibit

behaviors related to herding such as biting and barking at moving feet or brooms, mops and vacuum cleaners, circling people or objects, and chasing moving objects such as other animals, birds, planes and cars. Obviously, chasing cars can be fatal so don’t allow your Sheltie to do this.

In general, Shelties make great family pets. They can be very active and playful, and they can be just as happy sleeping at your feet when you are busy with other things. They do not require a lot of exercise...usually a daily walk or two or time to run in a safely fenced yard will be enough. Most Shelties are good with children but there are some that would prefer to be left alone and will prefer to go off to a place where they will have some solitude. Shelties can be very protective of their families, especially children of the family.