Shetland Sheepdogs, affectionately often known as Shelties, are beloved for his or her magnificence, intelligence, and pleasant disposition. Nonetheless, as a long-time proprietor, I’ve encountered a fair proportion of misconceptions about this exceptional breed. On this put up, I purpose to debunk the 5 greatest myths about Shelties.
Delusion 1: Shelties are Small Tough Collies
Whereas Shelties bear a hanging resemblance to Tough Collies, they aren’t merely miniature variations of their bigger counterparts. They’re two distinct breeds with completely different histories and traits. Shelties hail from the Shetland Islands of Scotland the place they had been bred to herd and guard flocks, whereas Tough Collies originated from mainland Scotland and had been bred for comparable, however not similar functions.
Delusion 2: Shelties are Hyperactive
Some individuals imagine that Shelties are at all times bouncing off the partitions. The reality is, whereas Shelties are energetic and want common train, they aren’t hyperactive. Their vitality ranges are akin to different herding breeds. A Sheltie with the correct quantity of train and psychological stimulation will be fairly calm and relaxed, particularly in a house atmosphere.
Delusion 3: Shelties are Shy and Aloof
Shelties are sometimes perceived as shy or aloof. Nonetheless, these canine are normally reserved slightly than shy. Whereas they could be cautious round strangers initially, they typically heat up as soon as they assess the state of affairs. With correct socialization from a younger age, Shelties will be very pleasant and sociable canine.
Delusion 4: Shelties are Excessive Upkeep Resulting from Their Coat
Whereas Shelties have a stupendous, lengthy double coat, they aren’t as excessive upkeep as one may suppose. Sure, they require common brushing to forestall matting and tangling, however they sometimes solely want thorough grooming a few times every week. And opposite to what some imagine, Shelties shouldn’t be shaved as their double coat helps regulate their physique temperature and protects them from the weather.
Delusion 5: Shelties are Liable to Bark Excessively
It’s true that Shelties are vocal and they’ll bark to alert their household of something out of the atypical, which is a trait from their herding heritage. Nonetheless, they aren’t incessant barkers if they’re educated correctly. Constructive reinforcement methods can be utilized to show your Sheltie when it’s applicable to bark and when it’s not.
In conclusion, whereas Shelties are an brisk, clever breed that requires common psychological and bodily stimulation, they aren’t hyperactive, shy, or excessive upkeep. They’re removed from simply being small Tough Collies and with applicable coaching, they aren’t extreme barkers.
Dwelling with a Sheltie is an expertise stuffed with love, companionship, and plenty of enjoyable. They’re a splendidly adaptable breed that matches effectively into many varieties of properties and existence. As with all breed, understanding the reality behind these myths may help you recognize the distinctive qualities that make a Sheltie a Sheltie. Get to know one; you may discover that they’re the proper addition to your loved ones.
