New Addition to My Family?

  • No, not the human kind of addition. I wish, maybe in a few years. I'm talking about a new pup. I'm looking into getting a Shetland Sheepdog, from a nice breeder that is being very helpful, kind, and understanding. I've always, ALWAYS dreamed of a Sheltie (as well as a teacup poodle...but I got that already!), so this would just be a dream come true. Does anyone out there in 3FC-land own a Sheltie? Or do you know anyone who does? I'm interested in knowing from experience, what kind of dog they truly are. I've read into them, and I've known a few people who've owned Shelties. So, the more the merrier! Anyone have anything??
  • Awww, congrats! I had a sheltie for 12 years. She passed away November '06. She was amazing, very very loyal! The only thing I can tell you is to definitely socialize her/him well with other animals and people at a young age. It is so important. We weren't very educated when we first had her as a pup and didn't socialize her too well.. so she didn't like other dogs too much and was very hesitant around new people. But she was very smart! We trained her so quick. Anyway, I just recently got a new puppy! He's a 4 month old lab/pit mix and he has been such a blessing to our family! They are so fun. A lot of work, but so rewarding. Good luck with your sheltie!
  • Have you looked at Sheltie rescues in your area for a sheltie? You can search google for sheltie rescues in your area if you don't know any.

    Petfinder is awesome for such things
    http://www.petfinder.com/

    I always dreamed of having a beagle since I was young so I started looking at breeders and such but I discovered that there were so many beagles currently without homes that I knew I had to adopt a rescue. I actually fell in love with a beagle mix and she is an awesome dog. She also has a great story in that she was living on the streets, without a home, but now she has one.

    If you are determined to buy from a breeder, I'd recommend making sure you can visit the breeder and see how your dog has been bred. Often bred dogs aren't socialized properly and can be over bred so that they have issues later on in life.

    Other than that, I haven't had many experiences with shelties. There is a sweetie that visits the dog park that is a sheltie (rescue) and is an awesome dog.