Caring for Your Sheltie's Health

Shetland Sheepdogs have luxurious double coats, which come with the routine responsibility of grooming. Here's my step-by-step guide to de-shedding the undercoat.

Here's an in-depth review of the best dog food for Shelties, examining dry dog food ingredients, healthy kibbles, toxic foods, and oral health.

Purebred dogs are more susceptible to certain genetic diseases than mixed-breeds. Shelties in particular are more prone to problems of the eyes, skin, knees, hips, and blood.

Neutering a male dog means surgically removing the testicles, stopping him from roaming to impregnate females. So what are the downsides..? Read now

Spaying a female Sheltie prevents heat cycles and pregnancy, while reducing the risk of several reproductive diseases. So what are the downsides...? Read now

Many dog owners are oblivious to their dog's tooth decay and periodontitis. Here's how to clean your Sheltie's teeth from a young age and protect her from pain and disease.

Vets say a third of dogs are overweight by 6 months old, producing higher risk of cancer and heart disease, while taking up to a year off life expectancy.

Behavioral problems aside, the best way to stop your Sheltie barking is to fill her life with productive outlets for her energy: agility, tricks, obedience, chew toys, games, and exercise.

Fleas can live happily in the Sheltie under coat, sucking blood through the skin which causes dreadful itching. Each flea can lay up to 4,000 eggs which perpetuates the havoc.

Even common foods like grapes, onions, tomatoes, and avocados can be toxic to dogs, with effects ranging from stomach upset to death.

Separation anxiety is a real problem for many dogs. When you leave for work in the morning, your dog may be plunged into a state of nervous anxiety which intensifies rapidly without your return.

Shelties can shy dogs if they aren't well socialized as puppies. Missing this window is a huge loss for a Sheltie, but there are ways to help minimize his anxiety.

When I asked Sheltie Planet readers to share their cutest, funniest and oh-so-sorrowful photos of dripping wet Shelties in the tub, this is what I got back.

Here are the best dog beds for Shelties, accounting for affordability, changes in seasons, your dog's age, health conditions, nervousness, and whether he chews.