Sheltie, or Shetland Sheepdogs, are loved for their intelligence, agility, and charming looks. These pint-sized collies have a knack for winning hearts, but owning a Sheltie comes with its own quirks and eccentricities. Fasten your seat belts as we reveal eight issues only Sheltie owners will understand.
1. Miniature Collie Confusion
No, they’re not little Lassies, they’re Shelties! A Sheltie owner constantly finds himself correcting people who mistake their Sheltie for a Rough Collie. Sure, the breeds are similar, but a true Sheltie enthusiast knows that their furry pup is unique in its own right.
2. Bark Brigade
Shelties are known for their vocal nature. They have a wide vocal range and are not afraid to use it. Whether it’s a knock on the door, a squirrel in the yard, or a leaf falling from a tree, your Sheltie will notify you. Think of it as your personalized, fur-covered, noise-making alert system.
3. Theft of livestock
Bred as herding dogs, the Sheltie has a strong herd instinct. Everything. Your child, your cat, the neighbor’s cat, and sometimes, you too! People who were besieged often wondered why they were suddenly led into the kitchen or herded into the living room by this pint-sized shepherd.
4. Destruction of hair
Shelties have a double coat that seems to shed incessantly. In fact, they put an ‘H’ in “hair” and an ‘F’ in “fur”! Your clothes, furniture, and even food can often be covered with a generous coat of Sheltie fur. You’ll soon find your lint roller is just as essential as your house keys.
5. Shadow Syndrome
Shelters tend to form a strong bond with their owners, often resulting in them following you everywhere. Literally. Say goodbye to bathroom privacy and welcome a pair of eyes watching you as you try to cook or do the laundry.
6. Enthusiastic about exercising
Shelters have high energy levels and require lots of exercise. Usually, they will be ready to go for a walk or play catch before you have had time to have your morning coffee. As a Sheltie owner, you need to accept their ‘let’s go’ attitude, even if it means they have to toss the ball dimly in the wee hours of the morning.
7. Shuffle the shyness
Sheltie can be a bit reserved and sometimes downright shy around strangers. It is not uncommon for them to hide behind their owners or bark when strangers approach. This can make communicating with them a bit of a challenge, and you can often find yourself reassuring people that your Sheltie is really friendly, just a little wary.
8. Intelligence stimulates
Sheltie is extremely intelligent, which can be counterproductive at times. They have a knack for outdoing their owners, whether it’s finding ways to open doors, enticing you for extra treats, or learning how to turn ‘dead play’ into ‘nap play’ to avoid bath time.
Despite these quirks, owning a Sheltie is a roller coaster ride full of fun. Their intelligence, affectionate nature and loyalty make up for the shedding and barking. Here’s to all Sheltie owners – you’re part of a unique club that understands the magic and mess of living with these miniature sheepdogs!
