Dive into a bath filled with cotton wool balls and you’ll have an inkling of what it’s like to stroke a Shetland Sheepdog. These little fur balls of joy, also referred to as Shelties, are famous for their luscious, thick coat that makes them look like mini Lassies. But beneath the beautiful exterior exists an intelligent and sprightly creature. Some folks might say they’re the Einstein of the dog species. Could you believe these little ones are known for herding not just sheep but even poultry and horses? It’s practically like witnessing a pint-sized Gandalf commanding, “You shall not pass!”
Now, if you’re thinking about welcoming a Shetland Sheepdog into your family, you might be wondering, are they easy to train? The answer may astound you. Not only are Shelties easy to train, but they may even end up training you!
Now that we’ve hooked your curiosity, let’s explore what makes a Sheltie a fabulous trainee, the methods to adopt while training one, and what pitfalls to dodge.
It’s broadly known that Shelties rank among the leading 10 smartest dog breeds worldwide. They’re incredibly intuitive, quick to learn, and eagerly responsive to training. However, an important note to remember though, they’re sensitive souls. They don’t respond well to harsh training methods. Positive reinforcements like praise, play, or treats are your strongest tools when training a Shetland Sheepdog. Above all else, nurturing trust and a loving bond with your Sheltie will make the training process an enjoyable adventure for both of you.
On beginning your training journey, remember that consistency is key. Shelties are excellent at detecting and reacting to your emotional state. Elucidate commands with a calm and clear voice, consistently use the same words and signals for each action. Both you and your commands should be as unflappable as James Bond disarming a bomb. Over time, your Sheltie will associate these commands with the designated actions.
Want a Sheltie who sits at your command? Start with the simplest command – ‘sit.’ Hold a treat in your hand above the Sheltie’s nose, then move your hand back over their head. The pup will naturally move into a sitting position. Once they sit, give the command ‘sit,’ offer the reward immediately, and shower your Sheltie with plenty of praise. Your Sheltie doesn’t only seek treats but also yearns for your approval. Repeating this, your Sheltie will learn quickly, and before long, you’ll have a well-behaved furball impressing your guests.
Yet, intelligence has its double-edged sword. Shelties’ considerable smarts can make them cunning and determined. So, if you’re not consistent and firm (never harsh), the Sheltie might soon figure out how to get treats without obeying any commands!
While Shelties are generally sociable, they can be wary of strangers. Socializing your Sheltie from a young age is critical. However, keep in mind that each dog is unique, and that means your Sheltie may need more or less socializing than others. Expose your pup to different people, sounds, and environments gently, always positive, and never overwhelming. These experiences will help your Sheltie grow into a well-rounded and confident adult dog.
Toilet training your Sheltie doesn’t have to feel like you’re battling in a chess championship! Similar to other breeds, Shelties need to go after eating, drinking, and waking up from sleep. Observe and learn your pup’s usual ‘go’ times and take them to the designated spot consistently. Award them with praise and treats after every successful potty achievement.
There’s a timeless saying that, “A tired dog is a good dog.” And in the case of Shelties, a tired dog is a well-behaved, trainable dog! Shelties have a high-energy reservoir and need their daily exercise – whether it’s a brisk walk, play-time in the yard, or herding your other pets (Just kidding!). Physical exhaustion aids in focus during training sessions which can help minimize the chances of hidden slippers turning into chew toys!
Remember, every dog, just like every human, has unique needs and personality. Patience, understanding, consistency, and a whole lot of love are integral to training Shetland Sheepdogs or any breed for that matter. Undeniably, training a dog is a commitment, but when you peer into those gleaming eyes filled with love and adoration, you realize it’s a truly rewarding experience. A well-trained Shetland Sheepdog is a delight to live with, becoming not just part of the family but also a brand ambassador for its breed!
So, do you think you’re ready to train a Sheltie now? All the best, remember, with a Sheltie in your life, it’s always “Fluffy fun times ahead!” After all, who can resist that charming Sheltie smile and twinkling eyes?
