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SHETLAND SHEEPDOG (SHELTIE)

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Shetland Sheepdogs are the most delightful of breeds,wonderful with children,super at obedience and they make great show dogs as well. They are loyal, loving and lovely to look at.

Within the family they love to accompany you on whatever you are doing whether it be around the house or visiting friends.

Appearance
They come in a rainbow of colours,the most common being sable and white. This is actually any shade of brown from gold, to red, to dark mahogany. Then there are the tri-colours,black with tan and white trimmings. Next is the blue merle which is a mixture of black and silvery grey, again trimmed with tan and white.The two rarest colours are black and white, and blue merle and white without tan.Blue merles sometimes have either one or two blue eyes to match their coats, whereas the other colours will always have brown eyes.

They are of medium size - around 15" -not too big and not too small. Their appepetite is so good that their main health problem is overweight which of course can lead to heart and joint problems. Given correct care it is not unusual for Shelties to live until the age of 15 or 16,and there are even a few who have made it until they are 18.

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Grooming
The coat is double,protecting them from the elements,but needs only a minimum of care. A thorough brushing once a week is sufficient to keep them looking beautiful. As with all breeds nails need to be kept short and the hair around the feet trimmed. Bathing should only be done infrequently.

Their heritage from the harsh Shetland Islands means that they are tough,hardy little dogs and are not prone to health problems.

Temperament
Their temperament is very special, in that their first priority is their family,therefore they may show reserve towards those they don't know,but this doesn't mean that they should be shy or nervous.

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If you are considering one of these delightful little dogs,contact your Kennel Association where-ever you live. They can put you in touch with breed clubs and also give you a list of breeders. These people will be able to show you just how wonderful Shelties are,and sometimes will have well bred,healthy puppies available to loving family homes. From these breeders you will get on-going help, and their prices are usually less than those of pet shops,so please support those producing happy healthy puppies.

You will never regret it if you make a Sheltie part of your family.

Further Information
  Books - Shetland Sheepdog Pet Love



Tiakina Shelties
Web: www.tiakinashelties.homestead.com/index.html

Last Update: 23/03/07 09:06 Views: 4521

OzPetShop - Pet Products, Supplies and Accessories