Shetland Talk

Shelties have a sense of humor

As a Shetland Sheepdog lover, you may find that one of the things you love the most about the breed is their intelligence, sensitivity and playfulness. Many Shelties quickly and accurately assess their owners moods, and most will react in some way to these moods. If you are stressed, your Sheltie may withdraw and become more reserved. In other delightful cases, your Sheltie may sense your anxiety and try to cheer you up.

This point was driven home to me just yesterday. I’m job hunting, which I don’t enjoy at all and I had a big interview in the afternoon. I took one of my Shetland Sheepdogs, Ashley, to agility class in the morning. Ashley loves agility; it is her favorite sport, and she takes it quite seriously. I walked the course the instructor had laid out for our session, and because of my nerves, I had the hardest time remembering it. I hoped I didn’t frustrate poor Ashley too much by forgetting it when we ran.

Our first training run went really well. I remembered the course and Ashley followed all my cues. The instructor then covered some fine points of handling the course effectively, but because Ashley and I had done well, we didn’t need to change our approach. However, I was still nervous about the upcoming interview, and Ashley had definitely begun to sense it.

Our next run, she decided to do an obstacle or two, then loop around and bark. Maybe it would be fun to miss this jump, and to back jump that one. The instructor thought I was cuing correctly, but Ashley had a big smile on her face, and she was acting very silly. We concluded she was teasing me, to get me to laugh and lighten up. And you know, it worked!

Shelties and fear of thunderstorms

Any breed of dog can develop fears and anxieties around thunderstorms, but as a sensitive, highly alert breed, Shetland Sheepdogs may be more susceptible to this malady. It can be distressing to watch your furry friend’s discomfort, but this discomfort can lead to tragic outcomes. If your Sheltie is fearful of storms, you’ll want to look at taking steps to alleviating the situation.

One approach to lessening anxiety is counter-conditioning, which is pairing the scary situation to something the dog loves, such as tasty treats or a game of tug. To be effective, however, the dog must be feeling just a little anxiety, or he will be too frightened to care about the treats or game. Obviously, this can be difficult to control during a storm, so you may want to find thunderstorm CDs, that you start by playing very softly, condition your dog, and gradually increase the CDs volume. Work with your dog during good weather, and if a storm approaches, try counter-conditioning as soon as you are able.

Another approach involves using gentle pressure on the Sheltie’s body, which can be applied through using Ace bandage wraps or fitting the dog in a T-shirt. Specially designed shirts are also available for dogs. I recently tried a shirt with one of my Shelties, and it did seem to lessen his anxiety.

Other dogs may respond well to dog appeasing pheromones, also know as DAP. In some cases, the Shetland Sheepdog needs a place he feels safe, which may be a closet, or a covered crate. You may also want to talk with your vet about anti-anxiety medications. If you choose this option, be sure the medication calms your dog’s anxiety, because some medications just immobilize the dog, and don’t reduce his anxiety.

The thunderstorm phobia may also get worse as the dog gets older. I found that to be true with one of my Shelties. When he was young, he was slightly nervous, but as he’s gotten older, he’s started to pace, pant and drool.

Left untreated, thunderstorm anxiety can have tragic results, as some dogs will become so frightened that they jump fences or through windows or patio doors. There have also been cases of dogs suffering heart attacks because of this condition.

Playing disc safely with your Shetland Sheepdog

Although canine disc (which you may know as the trademarked name as Frisbee) as a sport is usually dominated by Border collies and Aussies, many Shelties do enjoy this sport. It offers the advantages of being fairly low cost and physically stimulating for your dog. Regardless of you and your dog’s skills, you can have fun playing in your back yard or a nearby park. You and your dog may grow to love the sport so much that you decide to compete locally or nationally. As with any sport, you’ll want to keep your Sheltie’s safety in mind.

If you’d like to try playing disc with your Sheltie, be sure to purchase quality discs that are made especially for dogs. Some pet stores offer very inexpensive discs, but these may shatter and hurt your dog. A sporting goods store may offer high quality discs; expect to pay about $15, and the disc should last quite awhile.

A quick Internet search will reveal that avid “disc-doggers” have posted lots of videos, articles and and forum threads on how to get started in disc dog. Take advantage of these resources. Ideally, you may even find a disc dog club nearby, and can meet members at a local park for help.

Practice your throws without your dog to help reduce the chance of injuries. Your throwing should be pretty reliable before you start playing with your dog. You’ll want to throw the disc so that your dog can catch is safely, so usually it’s best to throw it fairly straight, and at a distance that your dog can catch it before it hits the ground. Don’t throw it straight at him, or over his head, but throw it so he can chase it down from the side, similar to an interception.

Check your yard or field for hazards. Look for holes or rocks, and repair the situation before playing. Obviously, you’ll also want to be careful to throw away from trees or streets. Be aware of other hazards, such as loose dogs, too. If your Sheltie does not have a reliable recall, you can attach a “long line” to be sure you can get him back if he becomes distracted. If your dog is food motivated, you can bring treats for the recall also.

Start slowly. Disc can be an intense workout for dogs, so give your Shetland Sheepdog a chance to build up. Don’t play everyday. Two or three times a week is probably enough.

Avoid the heat of the day. With their beautiful fur coats, Shelties can easily overheat. Keep sessions short, and watch for signs of overheating, such as drooling. Bring water also, so your dog can quench his thirst and help cool himself.

Wash the discs before or after play sessions, and check for damage. Dirty discs may cause excessive teeth wear. A damaged disc, such as one that has bite marks, may cut your dog’s mouth. You may be able to sand slightly damaged areas so that the surface is again smooth.

Tips for trimming Shetland Sheepdog toenails

Trimming doggie toenails can be a daunting task for novice owners, with the very real fear of hurting the dog, if the “quick” of the toenail is cut. Many dogs dislike having their feet touched, and Shetland Sheepdogs tends to be a little skittish anyhow. A few tips, however, may make toenail clipping a little more comfortable for both you and your Sheltie.

Purchase good quality nail clippers that are the appropriate size for your dog. Cheap clippers don’t work well, and won’t last long either. Keep the clippers clean and dry for longer life. I also like to wipe the clippers down with disinfectant wipes after use.

Desensitize your Sheltie to having his feet handled. You can start this by touching a foot, and giving your dog a treat and praising him. Gradually work your way up to touching all feet, and then gently handling each foot. Once the dog is comfortable with this, try clipping one toenail, then rewarding him.

Again, work up slowly, stay calm, and use plenty of praise and treats. For Shetland Sheepdogs that are especially uncomfortable, you can provide a Kong-like with peanut butter for him to lick while you’re clipping his nails. The licking motion tends to be calming for dogs. I’ve given an empty-but-unwashed plastic peanut butter jar to my Sheltie who hates having his feet touched, and he happily focused on that.

Dog toenails differ from human nails in that the quick, which is filled with nerve endings and blood vessels, grows into the protruding part of the nail. The nail should not be clipped into this area, as it will cause pain, bleeding, and possible infections. If your Sheltie has clear toenails, you can usually see a pinkish area within the nail. This is the quick, and you’ll want to clip the nail above it. On black nails, you won’t be able to see the quick. You can clip off small slivers of nails until the clipped area starts to seem a little less nail-like. It is better to be cautious and clip off too little rather than too much. You can always ask your vet tech to show you how to safely clip nails.

Because Shetland Sheepdogs tend to have furry feet, you may also need to trim the fur in order to see the nails. Excess foot pad fur can also cause your Sheltie to slip, and it captures ice and debris, so keep this area trimmed as well.

Running with your Shetland Sheepdog

If you are a runner, or would like to become one, you may want to partner up with your Shetland Sheepdog. Healthy dogs usually enjoy this exercise, and running together can not only help you both stay in shape, but it can also build the bond between you and you Sheltie.

Naturally, you’ll want to be sure your dog is physically able to run. Puppies and young dogs should not run with you until their bodies are ready to withstand repetitive motion on a hard surface. Typically, this is when the growth plates in their bones have closed. Dogs with health issues may also be poor candidates for running. Consult with your vet before beginning a running program with your dog.

If your dog is cleared for running, start training slowly. Like people, dogs also need time to build up their physical conditioning, which includes building calluses on their foot pads. Although your dog may have zoomies around the house, running for any length of time requires a different type of physical and mental fitness, so be patient. You may want to start training by running 30 seconds and walking one minute for 20 minutes. Gradually increase the time running versus walking, and you can gradually increase the overall length of your session.

When running with your Sheltie, it is also important to run when the temperature is cool. Shelties have impressive double-coats, and can easily overheat. Be alert to signs that your dog is getting over-heated, such as excessive panting or drooling. Stop running, offer fresh water, and cool your dog down if you notice any signs of distress.

Although small-in-stature Shelties may not be the ideal companions for marathons, most well-conditioned Shelties can easily enjoy 5K runs. If your Shetland Sheepdog is comfortable in crowds, you may even consider signing up for 5K K9 runs. There’s something quite special about running with your dog in a pack.

Foster a Shetland Sheepdog and Save a Life

Fostering rescued Shetland Sheepdogs until they can be placed in their forever homes may be one of the most satisfying projects you’ll ever undertake. When you foster a rescue dog, you’re allowing that rescue to take in more dogs, and so the rescue can save more lives. Shelties are often sweet and adaptable, and fostering them is usually joyful, at least until you have to let them go to their new home!

If you’re interested in fostering, check with your local Sheltie rescue organization. Be sure you understand your responsibilities, and those of the rescue. For example, find out who pays expenses such as food and vet care? Most rescues will pay for their dogs’ vet care, and a few also will pay for food. Many don’t, however, so you’ll need to be comfortable adding the expensive of good quality food to your budget.

Be sure you have time for the foster dog also. Whether they are your own or a foster, obviously every additional dog will require more time for care, such as grooming, feeding and training. The rescue may also want you to meet with potential adopters to help ensure a good fit between the Sheltie and his new home, so you may need to plan take for those visits.

Another point to consider is what type of foster dog will fit best in your family. Some Shelties do well in a busy family with lots going on, but others will be happier in a quiet home. If you currently have dogs, be sure you take their preferences into account also. It’s quite common for alpha dogs to not want to accept another dog who wants to be alpha.

Although most foster Shetland Sheepdogs are basically nice dogs, some may have behavior issues. It’s not unusual for Shelties, especially those who weren’t well socialized, to be extremely shy and fearful. It may take these dogs weeks, or even months, to warm up to their foster families, You’ll need a lot of patience if you choose to foster an extremely shy dog. Regardless of the behavior issue, be honest with your self and the rescue about what sort of issues you can comfortably manage.

The fostering has its rough moments, the hardest part of fostering Shelties is usually that bittersweet occasion when the rescue has found the dog’s perfect forever home. Of course, you may just decide that the perfect forever home just happens to be your own.

Traveling With Your Shetland Sheepdog

It’s that time of year when we start looking forward to weekend trips and summer vacations. Many of us prefer to take our Shetland Sheepdogs with us when we can. If we do travel with our dogs, we’ll want to ensure they are comfortable and safe.

Allowing a dog to ride loose in a vehicle can be dangerous not only to the dog, but also to others in the car. Even a quick emergency stop may catapult your dog, which can cause injury. Using a crate or seatbelt can help keep your Sheltie secure.

You’ll also want to be especially careful when putting your dog in the car and taking him out of it. If you crate your Sheltie in the car, teach him to stay in the crate until you leash him up. Be careful to block the crate door with your body to prevent him from jumping out. You’ll also want to check that he isn’t able to back out of his collar if something causes him to panic. In fact, if your Sheltie is on the fearful and skittish side, you may want to use a halter and attach the leash to that. Some concerned owners will use two leashes, one attached to a collar and the other attached to a harness.

It’s also a good idea to bring copies of his vaccination records as these might be useful if your pet is exposed to a disease or needs medical attention. If you are traveling for dog-related events, some organizations will request these records.

Be sure to bring fresh water from home, so that your dog can rehydrate during your trip. If you are going to be gone over mealtimes, bring servings of food along. You might also want to bring a few extra servings in case you are delayed on your trip. It might be difficult to find the brand you feed when traveling, and that is not the time to change foods. A plentiful supply of yummy treats are also useful for rewarding or even luring your dog if needed. Of course, you’ll also want to bring poop bags and continue being a responsible dog owner.

Some Sheltie owners also travel with a lost pet flyer that is ready to be printed and posted in case their dog becomes frightened and escapes. Even if this seems extreme to you, it is a good idea to have a digital photo that you can use to create flyers if you do happen to lose your dog.

Rally O With Your Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdogs are tuned into their owners, and love to spend time working with them. One fun way you can spend time with your Sheltie is by training and competing in Rally Obedience, often called simply Rally or Rally O. Rally is a sport that even less athletic handlers and dogs can enjoy.

Although it started as a bridge to traditional dog Obedience, Rally quickly became embraced on its own. It doesn’t require the same precision when heeling, but it offers other exercises, such as backing up, that can be fun and challenging. Another thing that is different is that Rally makes use of courses of exercises. A Rally team proceeds through the course in a set order, and each exercise is indicated by a sign.

It’s easy to get started in Rally with your Sheltie. A pet obedience class will help you learn the basic cues your dog will need for Rally. Many training centers offer Rally classes, and you can also practice on your own. If you decide to learn on your own, search the Internet for information such as videos, exercise descriptions, and course signs.

If you and your Sheltie decide Rally is the sport for you, you can also look into competing. Competing will help you set goals and remain motivated in your training. It’s just a lot of fun to earn ribbons and titles for your Shetland Sheepdog. There are several organizations that offer Rally O trials and titles. The American Kennel Club (AKC) is probably the best known, yet the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) also offer trials and titles. Check the opportunities in your area, and then focus on learning that organization’s exercises and rules.

What to Look for in an Agility Trainer for Your Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland sheepdogs are bright and active little dogs, who usually love doing activities with their owners. Dog agility is activity that is fun for both your Sheltie and you as your dog’s handler. When you learn agility as a team, you’ll both get exercise, learn new skills, make new friends.

Look for an agility instructor who uses positive training methods. Training should be positive because you want your Sheltie to enjoy his new sport, and to not be afraid to make mistakes. A dog who is afraid to make mistakes will become slow and stressed, and remember, you are doing this to have fun!

A good agility trainer can help you learn the fundamentals that can lead to a successful and safe career. Although many people are excited to get on the obstacles, there are many other skills, such as going out from you to a target, or reading your body language signals for turning left and right that are also essential skills for your dog. Agility dogs also need to learn to be comfortable working with other dogs around, and to be comfortable relaxing in their crates.

Most Shelties quickly learn how to navigate the various obstacles such as jumps and tunnels. Contact obstacles, such as the dog walk, a-frame and teeter can be intimidating for some dogs. Of course, you will start with lower versions of these obstacles, and be sure to keep your dog safe when he is learning. Be patient, and with a little time and lots treats, these may soon become your Shetland Sheepdog’s favorites. Weave poles are challenging for many dogs also. A good agility instructor will have several methods to teach weaving, and will keep it fun for your dog.

A good instructor can also tell you when you are ready to compete, and she will help you select a good agility trial for your debut.

Never Give Up Searching for a Lost Sheltie

A few weeks ago I discussed ways to find a lost Shetland Sheepdog. A tragic news story involving a car accident and Shelties highlights why you should never give up searching for your lost dog, even when things may seem beyond hope.

In the news story, a husband and wife were traveling with their two Shelties through Nevada when they had a car accident. One of the Shelties was killed at the scene; the other, who was named Dooley, escaped into the desert. The husband and wife were both injured; the husband quite severely.

When the woman recovered sufficiently, volunteers aided her in the search for the dog who escaped some time ago. The search suffered a setback when remains that were believed to be Dooley were found. Oddly, the woman’s husband passed away the same day. Though it may have been a reaction of the overwhelming grief she may have felt at her husband’s passing, the woman never felt as if her dog had actually died. And sure enough, a few weeks later, a dog similar to Dooley was spotted.

Amazingly enough, the dog was Dooley, and eventually, this skittish little boy was captured and returned home. This was after 53 days of foraging for himself in the desert. His presence is helping his owner heal from the grief of losing her husband.

Although this story is especially dramatic, my work as a volunteer for Sheltie rescue has led me to realize it isn’t unusual for Shelties to be found weeks after becoming lost. Though frustratingly shy and skittish at times, they are smart and hardy little dogs. So, that is why you should never give up.

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