Sound Shetland Sheepdogs: Which tests see if dogs have the proper temperment Behaviour

Discussion in 'Shetland Sheepdog' started by sheltieaddict, Apr 17, 2013.

  1. sheltieaddict

    sheltieaddict New Member

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    Name:
    xfreefallen

    Sound Shetland Sheepdogs: Which tests see if dogs have the proper temperment

    Beside CGC,
    What are some temperament test that test for the proper temperament?

    I've met fear aggressive, unsound, fearful shelties. I hope if don't offend anyone, but I'd never want to own a fear aggressive dog. But a non-fear aggressive shelties are complete joy to be around.

    Thanks :grin:
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  3. aerolor

    aerolor New Member

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    Rena
    I am not sure if there are temperament tests specifically for the Shetland Sheepdog and I am not sure if I would actually put a great deal of credibility in temperament testing young puppies, although I am aware that in the USA things may be different. I would say read what the breed standard says about their temperament, do your homework thoroughly and then go to a reputable breeder who concentrates on this breed and will advise you appropriately what to look for specific to your needs. If you are not sure what you are doing or what you are looking for in a Sheltie puppy then try to take someone with you who does know. A lot of Shelties seem to be bred particularly small these days and if you want one for agility I think you need to look outside of the accepted breed standard for the larger size Sheltie. Many Sheltie crosses make excellent agility dogs so perhaps a crossbreed is worth thinking about (although you may have to look around carefully for some while before finding a suitable pup).
    I agree that a Sheltie is a lovely, lively and highly intelligent little dog, and they are naturally gentle if a little cautious, but like any breed they should not actually be shy. I would say that they can initially be a little reserved and they are sensitive. You never need to raise your voice with a Sheltie and if you are impatient they will close down on you. They are usually very well tuned in to their owners moods and are very loyal. Like all dogs socialisation as a puppy is very important and particularly so with Shelties to bring oout the best in them. They usually will prefer to withdraw from a situation rather than stand their ground, but that is no bad thing. Having said that many make alert and vociferous watch dogs, capable of going in and giving a nip - but they are not a guarding breed.

    Many years ago I had a lovely Sheltie who was quite good at agility and obedience work. He was well outside the breed standard for size, but everything else about him was right (or at least I thought so). Shelties can be very long lived and Rob was almost 19 when he died. He was an excellent family dog; he was not the boldest of dogs, but he had that intangible something that makes a great Sheltie and companion. In all but size he was typical of his breed and I thought his larger size was a great advantage for him
    I think at the end of the day what you as an owner does is so important and makes such a difference to the kind of dog you will end up with as an adult.

    Good luck in your search (and buy a good set of grooming tools).

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