Addressing Shetland Sheepdog Health Issues: A Comprehensive Guide

Shetland Sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, are a popular breed known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. They are a relatively small breed, weighing between 25-40 pounds and standing between 13-16 inches tall.

Shelties are prone to certain health issues that can affect their quality of life and lifespan. One of the most common health issues in Shelties is Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), a genetic disorder that can cause vision loss or blindness.

Hip dysplasia is another common health issue in Shelties, which can lead to arthritis and mobility problems. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage hip dysplasia, but surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

Shelties are also prone to thyroid issues, including hypothyroidism, which can cause weight gain, skin problems, and hair loss. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help detect thyroid issues early on.

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Brushing your Shetland Sheepdog's teeth daily can prevent periodontal disease.

Regular brushing of their coat is also essential for their overall health.

Be sure to watch your Shetland Sheepdog's diet and make sure they get plenty of exercise.

Brushing their teeth daily is a crucial part of their daily routine.

Signing up for pet health insurance is a very important step in caring for your pet.

Regular check-ups and vaccinations are essential to prevent diseases and conditions common in Shelties.

Shelties can be prone to a condition called patent ductus arteriosus, or PDA, which affects a small vessel in the heart that doesn't close as it should after birth.

This can cause too much blood to be carried to the lungs, leading to fluid build-up and strain on the heart.

Outward signs of PDA may be mild, such as coughing or fatigue during exercise, or more severe, including weight loss, shortness of breath, and weakness in the hind limbs.

We can diagnose PDA by listening for a specific type of heart murmur during your pet's examinations.

If your Sheltie has PDA, surgery may be recommended to close the problematic vessel.

When it comes to eye health, Shetland Sheepdogs are prone to certain issues that can impact their quality of life. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shelties, and surgery to remove them may be an option.

Cataracts are caused by the lenses of the eyes becoming more opaque, or cloudy. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine.

Distichiasis is another condition that can cause eye problems in Shelties. It's caused by extra hairs that grow inside the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye, leading to corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain.

To prevent eye problems, routine cleaning with a soft, damp cloth or pet-friendly face wipe can help prevent normal tearing and debris from building up around your Sheltie's eyes.

Here are some common eye problems that can affect Shetland Sheepdogs:

Ear health is also important for Shelties. Routine ear cleaning with a veterinary-approved ear cleanser can help maintain their healthy ear canals.

Eye problems can have a significant impact on your Sheltie's quality of life, and it's essential to be aware of the potential issues that can arise.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shelties, and they can be treated with surgery to remove the cloudy lens and restore sight.

Distichiasis is a condition that causes extra hairs to grow inside the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye, leading to corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain if left untreated.

Collie eye anomaly is a genetically linked disease that can cause abnormal development of the eye in Shetland Sheepdogs, potentially leading to blindness.

Regular eye exams are crucial in detecting any eye problems early on, especially in Shelties, which are prone to certain conditions.

To keep your Sheltie's eyes clean and healthy, routine cleaning with a soft, damp cloth or pet-friendly face wipe can help prevent normal tearing and debris from building up.

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Here are some common eye conditions that can affect Shelties:

If you notice any changes in your Sheltie's eyes, such as discharge or trouble seeing, it's essential to take them to the vet right away.

Taking care of your Sheltie's ears is crucial for their overall health. Routine ear cleaning with a veterinary-approved ear cleanser will help maintain your Sheltie's healthy ear canals.

Ear infections can be a real pain for your furry friend, so it's essential to keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.

Shetland Sheepdogs are prone to epilepsy, a neurological condition that affects the brain and can cause seizures. This inherited condition can be a challenge for owners, but with proper care and medication, seizures can be managed.

Reactive seizures are triggered by metabolic problems, while secondary seizures are caused by brain tumors, strokes, or trauma. If no other cause is found, the condition is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. Shetland Sheepdogs are commonly afflicted with this condition.

If your Shetland Sheepdog is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause, and lifelong medication is usually necessary to keep seizures under control. Periodic blood testing is required to monitor side effects and effectiveness.

If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Note the length of the seizure, and call a veterinarian or an emergency hospital.

Epilepsy is a common neurological issue in Shetland Sheepdogs, with many of them being afflicted with the condition.

There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary.

Reactive seizures are caused by the brain's reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin.

Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma.

Primary or idiopathic epilepsy is often an inherited condition, and Shetland Sheepdogs are commonly afflicted.

Seizures typically begin between six months and three years of age.

An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause of the seizures.

Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness.

If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue.

Bleeding Disorders can be a serious concern for dogs, especially Shetland Sheepdogs. They are prone to some relatively rare diseases of the blood.

Hemolytic Anemia and Thrombocytopenia occurs when the immune system goes haywire and starts attacking the pet's own red blood cells or platelets. This can lead to severe bleeding, especially during surgery or after a serious injury. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic, with gums that look whitish or yellow instead of a normal bright pink color.

If the immune system destroys platelets, his blood won't clot properly and he'll have bruises or abnormal bleeding. Diagnostic testing for blood clotting is crucial before any surgeries to check for these problems. To slow or stop the immune system's destruction of cells, steroids and other immune-suppressive drugs may be prescribed. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed.

Von Willebrand's disease is a blood clotting disorder frequently found in Shetland Sheepdogs. Diagnostic testing for blood clotting time or a specific DNA blood test for Von Willebrand's disease or other similar disorders is necessary before surgery to check for this problem.

Here are some key facts to keep in mind:

Shetland Sheepdogs are prone to a number of musculoskeletal problems, but with diligent observation and knowledge, you can take great care of your furry friend throughout his life.

Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice stiffness in your Sheltie's elbows or hips, especially as he matures, or lameness in his legs or difficulty getting up from lying down.

Stiffness in your Sheltie's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures. You can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. We’ll take X-rays of your dog’s bones to identify issues as early as possible.

Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering!

Your Sheltie's kneecap (patella) may slip out of place, a condition called patellar luxation. You might notice that he runs along and suddenly picks up a back leg and skips or hops for a few strides.

If the problem is mild and involves only one leg, your friend may not require much treatment beyond arthritis medication. When symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap to keep it from popping out of place.

Here are some common signs of patellar luxation:

The Shetland sheepdog's skin and coat require regular attention to stay healthy. Their long, straight outer coat sheds considerably.

Brushing your Sheltie at least twice a week is crucial to prevent matting and collect loose hair. This regular grooming also helps reduce shedding.

Bathing should be done occasionally, and it's often best left to a professional groomer who can trim out mats that form behind ears or under legs.

Sheltie skin syndrome is an inherited disease that affects skin, muscles, and blood vessels, causing inflammation.

Dogs with this condition may develop a range of signs, varying from small skin lesions to severe ulcerations of the skin and muscle loss.

It typically first appears in dogs less than 6 months old.

There is no cure for the condition, but in some cases it can be managed at home.

The Sheltie's coat is quite impressive, but it does require some regular maintenance.

Their long, straight outer coat is accompanied by a dense undercoat that sheds considerably.

Brushing your Sheltie at least twice a week is essential to prevent matting and collect loose hair.

Bathing is only needed occasionally, and it's often best left to a professional groomer who can trim out mats that form behind ears or under legs.

Shelties often have a skin allergy called "atopy" that makes their skin itchy, typically affecting the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears. Symptoms can start between the ages of one and three and get worse every year.

Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are common signs of allergies in Shelties.

The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions, offering relief for affected Shelties.

Shetland Sheepdogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections—the same ones that all dogs can get—such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, herage, and other factors.

Preventing infections is crucial in maintaining the overall health of your Shetland Sheepdog.

Parasites can be a serious concern for your Sheltie's health, causing pain, discomfort, and even death if left untreated.

Fleas, ticks, and ear mites can infest your Sheltie's skin and ears, while hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system through contaminated water, soil, or mosquito bites.

Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member, making it a serious concern for everyone in the household.

Drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito are all common ways for these parasites to get into your Sheltie's system.

It's essential to test for parasites on a regular basis to prevent any potential issues, and your veterinarian may recommend preventive medication to keep your Sheltie healthy.

Parasites can be found both inside and out, and it's crucial to check your Sheltie's skin and ears regularly for any signs of infestation.

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Allergies can make life miserable for both humans and dogs. In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch.

Dogs, on the other hand, experience allergies differently. Instead of sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy, a condition known as atopy.

Shelties are a breed that often suffers from atopy, and it's not uncommon for them to develop symptoms between the ages of one and three. The symptoms can get worse every year if left untreated.

Common areas affected by atopy in dogs include the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears. If your dog is experiencing atopy, you may notice them licking their paws, rubbing their face, or developing frequent ear infections.

The good news is that there are many treatment options available for atopy in dogs.

Shetland sheepdogs are prone to certain health issues that can affect their quality of life. Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs, and Shelties are more likely to develop cancer at a younger age than other breeds.

Many cancers can be cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical for successful treatment.

Shelties are also prone to a common condition called hypothyroidism, where the body doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes.

Annual blood tests can help detect hypothyroidism, and treatment is usually simple: replacement hormones given in the form of a pill.

Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs, but Shelties are more prone to certain types of cancer that can appear at a younger age.

Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical for all types of cancer.

Your Sheltie will likely live longer than many other breeds, which means they're more prone to get cancer in their golden years.

We'll perform periodic diagnostic tests and look for lumps and bumps when we examine your pet, to help catch any potential cancers early on.

Shelties are prone to a common condition called hypothyroidism in which the body doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone. This can lead to a range of symptoms including dry skin and coat, hair loss, and weight gain.

The signs of hypothyroidism can also include fearfulness, aggression, and other behavioral changes. These changes can be subtle, but they can also be quite noticeable.

We’ll conduct a blood screening test annually to screen for the disease. This is a simple and effective way to catch hypothyroidism early on.

Treatment for hypothyroidism is usually simple: replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. This can make a big difference in a Sheltie's quality of life.

Dental disease is a serious issue for Shetland Sheepdogs, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two.

Your Sheltie is more likely to have problems with her teeth than other dogs.

Tartar build-up on the teeth is the first sign of dental disease, which can progress to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth.

If left untreated, dental disease can lead to serious health problems, including damaging the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints.

Regular teeth cleaning is crucial to prevent or treat dental disease.

We'll work together to keep your Sheltie's teeth clean and healthy, and I'll let you know what you can do at home to maintain good oral hygiene.

Tumors, including cancerous ones, can appear as lumps or bumps on the skin, and it's essential to have them checked out, like the Mast Cell Tumor mentioned earlier.

Shetland Sheepdog owners know that a healthy diet is essential to their pup's overall well-being. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself to prevent unwanted snacking.

Brushing your Sheltie's coat is a must, at least weekly, to prevent matting and tangling. Shetland Sheepdogs often have serious problems with their teeth, so brushing them at least three times a week is crucial.

Clean your Sheltie's ears weekly, even as a puppy, to prevent infections. A daily walk and frequent play sessions will keep your Sheltie happy and healthy, even in an apartment setting.

Shetland Sheepdogs are athletic dogs that excel at dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. However, they have a strong chase instinct, so leash walking and a fenced yard are a must.

To keep your Sheltie's diet consistent, avoid giving them people food and feed a high-quality diet appropriate for their age. Always talk to your veterinarian about your dog's food, as they can give recommendations on portions based on their weight, lifestyle, and health history.

Here's a summary of Shetland Sheepdog dietary needs:

Obesity can be a significant health problem in Shetland Sheepdogs.

It is a serious disease that may cause joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

If your Shetland Sheepdog looks at you with those soulful eyes, it's tempting to give her food, but you can "love her to death" with leftover people food and doggie treats.

Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or take her for a walk.

She'll feel better, and so will you.

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If you notice any unusual signs in your Shetland Sheepdog, seek medical care immediately. Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge are all red flags that require prompt attention.

Inability or straining to urinate, discolored urine, cloudiness, redness, itching, or any abnormality involving the eyes, fatigue during exercise, coughing, or shortness of breath, gums that are a color other than bright pink, any abnormal shaking, trembling, or excessive involuntary tremors, and leg stiffness or reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, jump, or "bunny hopping" are all symptoms that warrant immediate medical care.

Here are some specific signs that require immediate attention:

If you notice any of the following signs in your pet, seek medical care immediately.

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge are all potential signs of an ear infection.

Inability or straining to urinate, or discolored urine, can indicate a urinary tract issue.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes can be a sign of an eye infection or other health problem.

Fatigue during exercise, coughing, or shortness of breath can be symptoms of a respiratory issue.

Gums that are a color other than bright pink may indicate a dental health problem.

Any abnormal shaking, trembling, or excessive involuntary tremors are a cause for concern and should be checked by a veterinarian.

Leg stiffness, reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, jump, or "bunny hopping" can be a sign of arthritis or other mobility issues.

Here is a list of emergency signs to watch for:

Taking care of your Shetland Sheepdog at home is crucial for their health and happiness. Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people.

Watching her diet is essential, so make sure to feed her a balanced and nutritious food. Make sure she gets plenty of exercise to keep her physically and mentally stimulated.

Regularly brushing her teeth and coat is a must, as it will prevent periodontal disease. Brushing your dog’s teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease, so make it a daily habit.

Call us or a pet emergency hospital when something seems unusual, such as a change in appetite or behavior. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her.

Signing up for pet health insurance is another very important step in caring for your pet. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life, and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs.