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The Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) can provide years of
loving companionship to a family that is careful in
selecting their puppy. The process begins with
reading and learning all you can about this
wonderful working breed. An informed buyer goes to
reputable breeders ready to ask questions and gather
more information about how to care for the Sheltie.
In addition, the owner of a Shetland Sheepdog puppy
needs to be aware of the possible health problems
that can affect this breed.
For this breed, you will find two good options for
choosing the best dog for your family pet. One way
is to start with a puppy from a top breeder who
specializes in Shetland Sheepdogs. This will ensure
that you are getting a strong, healthy puppy that
will have few, if any, major health issues. In
addition, a puppy from a good breeder will spend the
first 8 weeks to 10 weeks of its life in a safe,
happy environment. A reputable breeder will spend
plenty of time in these early weeks socializing the
young dogs to be comfortable around other dogs and
around people. This alone can go a long way toward
giving a family the pet it has dreamed about.
As you visit at least three top breeders, be
prepared to ask questions about the possible health
issues that come with the Shetland Sheepdog. These
conditions can include eye problems, skin conditions
and several other medical issues. A good breeder
will not be reluctant to discuss these ideas and
will in fact, be willing to discuss his breeding
system. Asking to see both parents of the puppy you
are considering is highly recommended. This will
give you an idea of the health and general
temperament of the dog you may take home.
Remember that even though most puppies are cute and
almost irresistible, it may be best not to choose
the first puppy that seems to pick you. Sometimes
the less aggressive or forward puppies make the best
pet. This is something you should spend time on, to
make sure that you and the breeder agree on your
choice. Ask to see documents on the parents and the
health condition of the litter too. Many of the
inherited diseases and conditions of the Sheltie can
be detected at an early age. Not only that, but
knowing the bloodlines of the litter will help you
understand which conditions and diseases may occur.
Of course, a second choice for getting your new pet
would be to go to a rescue source or Sheltie
sanctuary. Many of the dogs from these locations are
excellent pets that just did not have a real chance
to make it in their first home. However, some unique
challenges with getting a dog from the rescue source
do exist. Adult dogs come with a different set of
challenges than does the puppy from a breeder. Even
so, many owners find that their Shetland Sheepdog
from a rescue organization is the greatest pet in
the world, giving back the love and attention that
it gets in the new home.
As you shop for a dog, remember that sometimes
things do not work out the way they should. New
owners should be prepared for the death of a young
dog by having guarantees from the breeder. One
question that should be answered before you take the
puppy home is this: Will I get my money back if the
puppy dies or is seriously ill in a specific
timeframe? You may also want to ask about getting a
replacement, as some breeders make this a standard
part of their contracts.
Whether you choose to get your new Sheltie from a
breeder or from a rescue organization, always
prepare yourself with plenty of knowledge
beforehand. Be ready to ask questions when you talk
with the breeder or rescue staff. Having a lot of
information up front may help you avoid problems
later. It could be the difference between a great
experience with your Shetland Sheepdog and a
troubled experience.
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