The Shetland Sheepdog, which was bred in Scotland to herd sheep, is sometimes confused for the Border Collie. Shetland Sheepdog is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States.
However, despite their tough work, these canines are relatively little, weighing in at much less than 30 pounds but only reaching a height of around 16 inches when fully mature. However, their tiny height is made up for by their intelligence and energy.
“Sheltie” dogs are excellent working dogs, but they are also friendly dogs and family pets. However, owning one may be a costly endeavor since dogs could be susceptible to a wide range of expensive health and maintenance requirements, just as any dog breed.
How much do these dogs cost? Let us investigate this further.
One Time Costs: Shetland Sheepdog
Even if you can adopt a Shetland Sheepdog puppy from a rescue group or bring one home for free, there are still significant one-time fees. Food bowls, beds, collars, and other necessities, may add up to a significant financial commitment.
Depending on whether or not you already own a dog, you may have some of this stuff lying around, but for a Shetland Sheepdog on this site, you will need products specifically designed for them, and puppy mills must be avoided.
Shetland Sheepdog Breeders
The price you pay for a Shetland Sheepdog depends on several factors, including the kind of Shetland Sheepdog you want to buy and the reputation and responsibility of the responsible breeder you choose. Toys and tiny Shetland Sheepdogs are often costlier than standard Shetland Sheepdogs.
Responsible breeders that do not sell to pet shops should get their dogs tested for health issues, breed only healthy Shetland Sheepdog puppies each year, and keep the number of litters they produce limited. You should expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,500 for a Shetland Sheepdog from a reputable breeder.
A good breeder of a Shetland Sheepdog costs around $500-$1,500.
Shetland Sheepdog Adoption
It is possible to welcome a dog into your life while also providing a loving home for a dog in need via adoption. Adopting a dog may cost as little as nothing or as much as a few hundred dollars, depending on where you go. The price of a Shetland Sheepdog from a rescue group might go into the hundreds of dollars, depending on the organization.
Keep in mind that obtaining a purebred Shetland Sheepdog via adoption is difficult since there will likely be little information available about the dog’s lineage. There are several reasons why owners choose to sell rather than give away Shetland Sheepdog pets.
Adoption of a Shetland Sheepdog costs around $50-$200.
Shetland Sheepdog Free
It is quite unusual to come across one of these canines for free, so proceed with caution if you do come across one. When a dog is given away for free, it’s often because they haven’t been given much money to invest in them. Occasionally, unwanted pups are given away for free, but they don’t always get the required health checks.
Even if you don’t spend any money on the dog right now, the higher vet costs you’ll accrue mean you’ll have to pay for it in the long run.
Shetland Sheepdog Setup & Supplies
You’ll need a few things to take good care of your Shetland Sheepdog. The majority of these items are suitable for a Shetland Sheepdog of any age, even though they’re essential for a young dog.
There may be changes in Shetland Sheepdogs’ demands as they become older. You’ll need a leash and ID badge, as well as a collar and a brush. A food dish and proper water are also helpful.
A dish that’s the proper size for your Shetland Sheepdog’s mouth will help him from smacking the rim or reaching for the last piece of food if the bowl is too deep.
Spaying or neutering a dog, as well as microchipping it, are popular options.
A Shetland Sheepdog’s setup and supplies will cost between $215 and $1000.
Monthly Costs: Shetland Sheepdog
Monthly expenses for Shetland Sheepdog are in the center of the pack. They don’t need a lot of food since they aren’t very huge. They’re in good shape, so you shouldn’t have to take them to the vet on too many occasions.
Things like shampoo & toys are likely to be necessary, as is a standard charge for these puppies. Your dog’s upkeep costs are mostly under your hands. A larger maintenance expense is likely if you require a dog walker and take your puppy to the clinic more often.
The monthly cost of a Shetland Sheepdog is $50-$200.
Shetland Sheepdog Dog Food Costs
Shetland Sheepdog food costs may vary depending on the size of your pet and the sort of food they’re eating. For a small or toy Shetland Sheepdog. It’s critical to consider the brand of food you’re purchasing. Poor-quality food may harm your health in the short term as well as the long term.
After moving into a new home, puppies should gradually be exposed to a new food brand by providing them with the food they are already familiar with (should you not agree with what he is currently consuming). If you’re concerned about dry skin, skin irritation, and hair loss, steer clear of meals that contain chemicals. What your dog eats is solely to blame for this.
Every day, puppies need anything from 1 – to 3 cups of food. They will need at least a bowl of water each day as they become older. Roughly 120 portions of food may be stored in a 30-pound sack that costs around $100.
Once every four months, if they just drink one cup a day, you’ll have to replace your supply (they may eat more at times).
An average month’s supply of dog food will cost between $50 and $100.
Shetland Sheepdog Grooming Costs
Shetland Sheepdog, in general, need a lot of care and regular grooming. Visiting a dog groomer four to seven times a year is recommended by dog groomers. If you spend $40 to $60 for each appointment, you may expect to pay roughly $300 a year.
Taking the dog to a skilled groomer will benefit its overall health and well-being. This includes a wash & shampoo, hair care products, brushing & styling, teeth brushing, nail trimming, or eye & ear cleaning for dogs who are groomed by a professional. Variables, such as the dog’s height, hair condition and health, age, temperament, and what services are requested, affect the price of dog grooming.
It’s possible to make your cleaning kit. It costs on average $75 to buy one online or at a store, and it comes with all the supplies you have to look for your Shetland Sheepdog at the house!
A Shetland Sheepdog’s grooming can set you back anything from $75 to $250.
Entertainment/Toy Costs: Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog need just a little amount of physical activity and dog sports. Most dog owners can handle this on their own. Nevertheless, if you will be gone for long periods, you may want to consider hiring a dog walker regularly.
Many dog walkers cost between $15 and $25 for a one-hour outing with your pet. There’s not much here. Paying $60-$100 per week for a dog walker if you need them five days a week isn’t unreasonable.
In certain cases, Shetland Sheepdog need solitary walks due to their inability to get along with other dogs.
Playing with toys is a favorite pastime for these dogs. Toys are a year-round expense for dogs, and this is no exception. A few are going to break, and a few will disappear.
Toys for your dog are often purchased once or twice a month. Like a Shetland Sheepdog could demolish any soft, plush toy in minutes, they must be tough. Even if costlier, toys that last a long time are a better investment.
You may anticipate paying between $15 and $30 a month if you get the right toys. If your dog’s toys seem to be disappearing quicker than usual, it’s time to invest in bigger, more durable options. Firehose and other comparable materials may be used to make various products.
You may find yourself spending less money on toys as your dog ages. After six or seven, they’ll probably cease playing rough and more often trash their toys. On the other hand, Shetland Sheepdog Puppies are far more likely than Shetland Sheepdog adults to engage in physical play.
The Entertainment and Toys of Shetland Sheepdog can cost around $400.
Shetland Sheepdog Veterinarian Costs
You’ll spend the most money on your dog’s medical care since the expenses rise swiftly in this area.
Flea prevention, as well as any drugs they need, will cost money. The expense of dogs with underlying illnesses is much higher than that of dogs without any underlying issues. This is where the bulk of your expenses will be incurred.
Veterinary care fees will eat up a large chunk of your dog’s monthly expenses. Puppies are costlier than adults since they need more preventive care than older dogs. You may anticipate seeing the veterinarian three times if you have a puppy.
Vaccines and parasite prevention are included in these appointments and a physical examination. If your breeder has already paid for the initial test, it will save you money.
Adults just only one yearly checkup for preventive care. This visit, though, will be more comprehensive. Due to their increased size, parasite prevention will cost little extra costs.
Puppies are cheaper than adults on average, although the difference isn’t huge. Most dog owners spend about $40 a month caring for their pets, but most are spent on a few doctor appointments.
You may expect to pay between $50 to $265 for a visit to a veterinarian.
Potential Additional Costs: Shetland Sheepdog
You may not have considered the cost of hiring a pet sitter or dog walker yet. Suppose you’re taking a summer vacation. You can bet that at least one youngster in the neighborhood would jump at the chance to help you out with the dog’s care and maintenance for $30 per day while you’re gone.
Your puppy’s potential for damage is also a concern, and that is something you do not know about. That which he can demolish is all that matters! Remember to include instruction in the areas of conduct and compliance!
All of this may add up. At the very least, you can expect to add $75 a month to your budget to accommodate for the unknown factors.
Pet Insurance Costs: Shetland Sheepdog
We strongly suggest that you get insurance for this kind of animal. However, they are susceptible to a lot of health problems that may be quite expensive to cure. For example, hip dysplasia, a dental disease, and renal dysplasia may cost tens of thousands of dollars to fix, and these are common problems.
Pet insurance comes in a variety of types. The lowest plans only cover physical injuries, such as a dog breaking a leg or sustaining a wound. In contrast, these policies do not provide coverage for sickness.
How much insurance will your dog cost depending on where you live and how old your dog is? As they become older, it becomes costlier.
You should expect to pay between $30 and $45 a month for pet insurance
How to Save Money Owning: Shetland Sheepdog
You may save money on a professional dog groomer by brushing your dog daily to avoid matting and keep an eye on their skin’s condition. To save money on dog grooming costs, you may want to consider doing it yourself if you’re comfortable with it.
To save money on Shetland Sheepdog care and maintenance, keeping an eye out for deals and coupons at online and brick-and-mortar stores is a good option. With these coupons, food, toys, snacks, cleaning supplies, pet grooming products, and other items may all be purchased for far less.
The Bottom Line: Cost to Own a Shetland Sheepdog Summary
Dogs of the Shetland Sheepdog breed may cost up to $1,500. They aren’t as pricey as other breeds, but plenty of less costly options are. Even if they aren’t ideal for individuals on a tight budget, these canines are more than affordable for most families.
Those who appreciate Shetland Sheepdog will find these animals to be exceptional investments.
A pup from a breeder will cost you between $1,500 this is the average price of a pup. Puppy expenditures and socialization are often included in the sale price of these pups, which might help you save money in the long run. Be aware of this while making financial plans.
Most of the $300 in dog supplies must be acquired before bringing your new pet home. Most Shetland Sheepdog owners will stick at the low end of the scale of the $65-$600 monthly expense range. It costs roughly $100 a month if you don’t take your pet to the groomer and employ a dog walker.
- Breeder Cost $500-$1,500
- Adoption Cost $50-200
- Setup & Supplies $215-$1000
- Monthly Costs $50-$200
- Dog Food Costs $50-$100
- Grooming Costs $40-$60
- Entertainment Cost $400
- Veterinarian Cost $50-$265
- Pet Insurance $30-$45
Mixed Breeds Similar to Shetland Sheepdog
Best Puppy Foods for Shetland Sheepdogs
Here are our puppy foods for Shetland Sheepdogs reviews.
1. Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food
This special Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food is perfect for your Shetland Sheepdog’s overall development. This chicken meal also consists of a decent amount of garden vegetables, which provide antioxidant and prebiotic support. This high protein diet contains around 419 Kcal per cup.
- It provides your Shetland Sheepdog strong muscles.
- The availability of pumpkin, blueberry, and orange makes the food vitamin-rich.
- The abundance of fatty acids takes good care of its external appearance.
2. Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Puppy Turkey, Oatmeal & Salmon Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food
This nutrient-rich Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Puppy Turkey, Oatmeal & Salmon Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for your little Shetland Sheepdog’s wellbeing. Designed for toy breed puppies, the food also contains chicken, rice, tomato, carrot, and so on. The small kibbles of the pack have been made keeping in mind the smaller jaws of Shetland Sheepdogs.
- DHA boosts the intellectual standards in dogs.
- Barley supplies the energy requirement of the dog’s body.
- It also contains some natural extracts such as rosemary extract, green tea extract, and so on.
3. Eukanuba Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food
This Eukanuba Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food keeps your Shetland Sheepdog active and energetic all through the day. Although chicken is the first ingredient of the food, it also contains corn, rice, fish oil, egg product, and many others. This unique food is specially formulated for puppies less than a year old.
- It has a unique balance of carbohydrate, protein, and fat.
- The abundance of calcium and phosphorus takes care of its dental and skeletal health.
- For the purpose of preservation, the food contains rosemary extract and tocopherol.
4. Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Puppy Dry Dog Food
Available in a 4 lb and 12 lb bag, this Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Puppy Dry Dog Food is a wholesome diet for little bodies of your Shetland Sheepdog. Apart from the real deboned chicken, the food has potatoes, peas, apples, blueberries, and so on. Multiple vitamins included in the food protect its body from all kinds of germs.
- It has a huge amount of chondroitin in it.
- It is absolutely grain-free as your Shetland Sheepdog has a sensitive stomach.
- These crunchy kibbles keep their teeth clean.
5. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Petite Salmon Formula Small Breed Puppy Limited Ingredient Diet Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food
The delightful taste of this CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Petite Salmon Formula Small Breed Puppy Limited Ingredient Diet Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food makes this food the favorite of your Shetland Sheepdog. Along with salmon as the first ingredient, the food comprises lentils, peas, flaxseed, and so on. These ingredients help your Sheepdog to get a healthy digestive system and clean gut.
- This grain-free diet has been made abiding by the food safety standards.
- Rich in animal protein, the food comes in two varied sized bags.
- It also improves the dog’s eyesight.
Puppy Foods For Shetland Sheepdogs Buyer’s Guide
Bred in the United Kingdom, Shetland Sheepdogs are known for their amicable nature towards humans and other pets. These highly active herding dogs are very easy to train. That is why if you give them the right nutrition from the very first day, you will see them always being up for exercises and training. It is known to us all that food is the fuel for any living species in the world. So, a portion of high-quality puppy food is needed in an adequate quantity to meet its energy requirements. Here we have listed some puppy food guides to help you along the way.
Activity level
The activity level sets the level of the calorie count in the dog’s body. As Shetland Sheepdogs are moderately active, they will require at least 380 Kcal per cup. In most cases, it is seen that puppies are more active than their elder counterpart. So, it is suggested to feed them puppy food thrice a day.
Health problems
Some dogs are allergic to several grains, as these upset their stomach. Besides, some breed can’t stand soy products and corn at all. That is why it is important to observe your Shetland Sheepdog puppy for weeks before you spend your bucks on puppy food. Other than stomach problems, if your Sheepdog is suffering from chronic skin issues, you should prioritize foods with omega 3 fatty acids in them. If your dog suffers from frequent digestive problems, it is good to feed them food with natural fibers.
Nutrition
Proper puppy food should contain animal protein to trigger its growth scale. Carbohydrate coming from oatmeal, wheat, rice, and barley provides it the energy it requires to stay active and agile. Vitamin, mineral, antioxidant, and prebiotic are also vital components of puppy food. These come from garden vegetables and real fruits mostly.
No matter what brand you buy, always check the noted items on the food packet’s rear side. We sincerely hope that these pieces of information will help you to find the most suitable puppy food for your Shetland Sheepdog.
Additional Recommended Products for Your Shetland Sheepdog
- Best Dog Food
- Best Dog Bowl
- Best Automatic Dog Feeder
- Best Interactive Dog Toys
- Best Dog Playpen
- Best Outdoor Dog Kennel
- Best Dog House
- Best Dog Crate
- Best Dog Treat
- Best Automatic Fetch Machine
- Best Dog Activity Monitor
- Best Dog Food Container
- Best Electronic Dog Door
- Best Dog Ramp
- Best Dog Cooling Vest
- Best GPS Tracker for Dogs
- Best Dog Bed
- Best Dog Cooling Pad
- Best Indestructible Dog Bed
- Best Dog Training Book
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