Facts & Origin
The Sheltie Shepherd - a hybrid breed.
The German Shepherd-Sheltie mix is a hybrid breed that is unique. The German Shepherd is a very intelligent dog that loves to work and enjoys easy training. Shetland Sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, are intelligent, caring and loyal companions. They have a lot of energy and are very playful. These two breeds together make for a particularly loyal, energetic and trainable dog.
The mix brings the best qualities of both breeds, making it a wonderful family dog. Shepardshelties, as they are sometimes called, are lively, affectionate and obedient. They fit well in a family and can be easily trained, especially if they get regular exercise and social contact. So, these wonderful mixed breed dogs make great pets as they inherit the best character traits from their parents.
| Alternate Name | - |
| Origin | Germany - Scotland |
| Life expectancy | 9 - 13 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance - high-maintenance |
| Activity level | high |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
More Shetland Sheepdog mixes
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits of the Sheltie Shepherd.
The mix is a remarkable combination of loud intelligence, loyalty and energetic character. These dogs possess a very intelligent mind, are very adaptable and have a strong bond with their family.
They quickly become loyal friends and love spending time with their families. Accordingly, they can sometimes become a bit tense or jealous when strangers show up unexpectedly. Since they have a strong protective instinct, they sometimes use their voice hastily in such situations. In such situations, it is important to calm the dog down and make sure it learns to accept and trust.
These mixed breed dogs need regular training to bring up their best potential. Since they are so intelligent, they are very easy to train with the right instructions. They love to be challenged and encouraged to learn new tricks. To keep them busy, it is very important that they get plenty of exercise. Although they are very intelligent and adaptable, this doesn't mean they don't need to have dog training experience.
All in all, the Mix is a very versatile breed that can be very demanding both emotionally and physically. However, this is also a very loving and playful dog that loves to make his pack happy. With the right leadership and training, he can become a wonderful, loyal friend.
Character
Health and breeding information
Breed diseases of the Sheltie Shepherd
Sheltie Shepherds are becoming increasingly popular because of their intelligence, friendliness and boldness, and great character. They are also referred to as Shelties. However, these dogs can also have some health problems. Therefore, it is important to understand what diseases can affect these hybrids and what can be done to keep them healthy and happy.
This hybrid breed is prone to several eye diseases, including hereditary cataracts. Other eye diseases that can occur include retinopathy, glaucoma, and pigmented retinal epithelium abnormalities. Some hybrids may also be prone to severe bone and joint disease. Often these diseases occur at an early age. The most common are dysplasia of the hip and elbow joints, and osteoarthritis.
The Sheltie Shepherd is also prone to allergies, especially atopy. Atopic dogs suffer from chronic allergic reactions that make them more susceptible to infections. It is therefore important to monitor the pet's condition and choose an allergy-friendly food. It is also prone to endocrine disorders, atypical Cushings disease, diabetes mellitus and liver disease.
The best way to prevent potential problems is to have a regular visit to the veterinarian. This will allow further difficulties to be detected and treated early. A good veterinarian can also perform and recommend tests to check the dog's genes if the dog's parents are not known. Regular exercise, a good diet, and an appropriate level of care will also help prevent possible illness.
Breed characteristics of the Sheltie Shepherd.
This mixed breed usually has a medium length coat that is mostly black and brown patterned. Its body is relatively slender and compact. It has strong legs and a straight back. On the head it carries a prominent stop. The voice is lively and high. Her teeth are very strong and bite resistant.
She weighs between 20 and 25 kg and her shoulder height is about 40 to 55 cm.
What does this mixed breed look like?
A Sheltie Shepherd is a very attractive and lively breed. Their coat is medium long and heavy, usually in a combination of dark golden and black. It can be very shaggy and the dog breed often has a long undercoat, which can be seen most of the time in summer. It has a thick and warm coat that helps them stay warm in cold weather. The color of the coat can vary greatly, although most mixed breeds have a combination of gold and black or gold with brown shading. Some also have lighter stripes in their fur, but this is quite rare.
| Fur length | long |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears - Tilt-ear |
| Tail | fanned out |
| Anatomy | massive, strong, sporty |
| Size ♀ | 33 - 60 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 6 - 32 kg |
| Size ♂ | 33 - 65 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 6 - 40 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
Known Diseases
MDR1 defect
The MDR1 defect is a defect in the MDR1 gene that can occur in some breeds of dogs and in humans. This results in the deficient or absent synthesis of a certain protein which is an important component of the blood-brain barrier, leading to hypersensitivity to some drugs.
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
FAQ
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A German Shepherd-Shetland Sheepdog mix grows to an average height of between 40 to 55 inches.
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A Sheltie Shepherd tends to combine the different characteristics of both parent breeds with each other, including typical collars, short and dense coat, and strong build and intelligent.
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The mongrel can be groomed fairly easily. Regular brushing helps prevent tangles, and they may need an occasional bath. But be careful: too much brushing or bathing removes natural oils and irritates the skin.
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German Shepherd-Shetland Sheepdog mixes are very intelligent, loyal and friendly dogs. They are energetic and love to be busy, but they also tend to get jealous. Any exercises like agility training would help the German Shepherd-Shetland Sheepdog mix to spend positive energy.
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A Sheltie Shepherd can have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. However, health status, diet, and grooming all play a role in determining a dog's lifespan.
