Maybe you just fell in love with a Shetland Sheepdog, also known as a Sheltie? Then you definitely want to know what to expect here.
And not just in terms of health and costs.
That’s why we tell you everything about it in this guide Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) temperament, temperament & character in detail.
Shetland Sheepdog character and temperament
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known to his fans as Sheltie, has a multi-faceted nature that is characterized by many great qualities.
Some character traits seem to contradict each other, which of course accounts for the special charm of the little Scotsman.
As a herding dog, the Sheltie almost naturally has a high level of intelligence, it is also considered to be very willing to learn and is enthusiastic about its tasks.
Due to his affectionate nature, he builds close bonds with his people, and he also wants to please them to a certain extent.
This in turn has an effect on the training, where the Shetland Sheepdog stands out with its quick comprehension and is therefore considered to be easy to train.
Due to its original task as a herder of flocks of sheep, the Sheltie is given an independent nature that is accompanied by a high level of self-confidence.
These traits are largely due to his breeding history.
Because the fact is that the Shetlands belong to the landscapes that are characterized by loneliness and seclusion.
The ability to make decisions independently is therefore a must – because apart from the sheep there may be no one to be found for miles.
The resilience that the Sheltie was also born with is due to the harsh and cold climate of the Shetlands.
Since the Sheltie was exclusively at home there for many years, these characteristics and advantages also flowed into the later breeding of the breed.
When the fur nose is out and about, the mischievous and mischievous temperament comes to light, which is also present in your own four walls and with your loved ones.
Speaking of Shelties and their favorite people: the dog is very sensitive and sensitive. Accordingly, he can almost smell the moods of his people.
Not only is this beneficial for both of you, it can also be detrimental to the health of the Sheltie.
Sensitive canines try to cheer up their people, but at the same time they run the risk of being exposed to enormous emotional stress themselves.
socialization and upbringing
No dog can lead a species-appropriate life, if he has not been socialized and trained as a puppy – this of course also applies to the Sheltie.
The socialization of the cute Scotsman should already begin with the breeder, because the first few weeks of life are considered crucial as far as the further dog life is concerned.
The Sheltie mother is also significantly involved in socialization here, as puppies stay with their mother for many weeks.
However, since a Sheltie puppy will move in with you before their socialization is complete, it’s your responsibility to complete this – as well as the training of the mini fur nose.
It is important that the sensitive and at the same time sociable Sheltie comes into contact with other dogs, people and pets at an early age.
Getting used to this early on prevents problems later on when living together or when going for a walk.
Training the Sheltie should be characterized by the following things: lots of empathy, sensitivity and loving leadership with positive reinforcement.
As much as the mini-Scotsman wants to learn commands and commands – because these are important:
If these are conveyed harshly, in a harsh tone and with too much pressure, the frightened dog will let go and withdraw.
It’s just as important for the Sheltie to get rest periods between periods of learning.
In this way he learns that action can go hand in hand or paw in paw with relaxation.
The clever little fellow also needs a lot of mental work for a species-appropriate upbringing.
If you two attend a puppy school, he can also get to know suitable dog sports such as agility, dog dancing or flyball.
Only if you observe and implement these things will you live with a well-balanced, happy and healthy Shetland Sheepdog.
Because the combination of socialization + training + utilization brings out the best character traits and behaviors of the Sheltie.
Good to know
Socialized, raised and kept in a manner appropriate to the species, the Sheltie is just as happy about being kept in an apartment as it is in a house with a garden.
Characteristics of character & temperament
What makes the Sheltie so special when it comes to character and temperament?
In fact, strictly speaking, they are all traits taken together that give the dog a bit of versatility to lend.
What is really special is his sensitive nature and the ability to perceive even the smallest changes in mood.
This characteristic not only makes him an excellent herding dog. She also makes him a unique family and companion dog.
The sensitive nature is also accompanied by a pronounced guard and protective instinct.
According to this, the Sheltie literally jumps into the breach for his herd – i.e. your family and you – to protect you from supposed and real dangers.
So you see: The Shetland Sheepdog is not only a particularly beautiful dog, he will also wrap you around his four paws with his fascinating nature and temperament.
Conclusion
The Shetland Sheepdog is one of the most trainable and particularly friendly dog breeds.
That reputation he will thanks to species-appropriate socialization, upbringing and utilization also fair.
You can thank for this fact among other things his origin and his breeding history.
Here, value was also placed on an alert, independent nature, which is accompanied by a sensitive and eager character.
Already living with a Sheltie? Then we would be happy if you could add your own tips to our comments. 😊