How to Take Care of an Older Sheltie Dog
A Shetland sheepdog or sheltie may look like a miniature collie, but these dogs are a separate breed. Like a collie, they are linked to the border collie from Scotland. The breed is considered very intelligent and lives a long life for a dog, up to 15 years or more. With older shelties, there are a few things to consider to make their life more comfortable.
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Instructions
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You will need to take your do to the vet Make sure your veterinarian examines your older sheltie to make sure there are no problems that need to be taken care of. Make sure your sheltie's shots are up to date and his teeth cleaned. Keeping regular veterinarian visits will help with any problems that may arise.
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You will need to get the supplies for the dog Find out from your veterinarian what kind of food your older sheltie should be eating for proper nutrition. If it is not the same as his current food, you may need to mix the foods. That way, your older sheltie can adjust to the new food gradually. Slowly remove the old food in a week or so. As your dog ages, make sure he has a proper diet with the right amount of vitamins and protein. Do not overfeed your dog. Being overweight can cause problems with joints. Healthy snacks are available for your older sheltie that can help with dental care.
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Allow your older sheltie time to adjust if you recently adopted him. Be patient. He will get comfortable with his new home and show affection, but do not be surprised at first if the animal acts a little uncomfortable. Give the dog plenty of room to learn and get comfortable with his surroundings.
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Allow for possible accidents. An older sheltie may be housebroken, but that was in his former home. He is not housebroken with his new surroundings. If he's already housebroken, it should not take long for him to learn his new routine. But putting him on a schedule and showing him where he is supposed to go, he should learn quickly. Remember to use positive reinforcement when completing his task.
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You will need to brush and comb your sheltie Groom your older sheltie. These dogs have thick fur and it needs to be brushed at least three times a week. They need a full bath only every couple of months and it is best done by a professional groomer. If you do not take your dog to a professional, take extra care to make sure all the soap gets rinsed out. If it does not, the soap will create problems for the skin.
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Keep your older sheltie active. The sheltie may not be able to run as much as when he was a puppy, but he is a natural herder and likes to run. If you have a yard, make sure he has time to run and play in the yard. If you do not have a yard, make sure you take your sheltie on walks.
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Tips & Warnings
Many areas have dog parks where you can take your dog to socialize with other dogs.
Dogs like a routine. Try to take your older sheltie for walks, and feed him about the same time each day. The routine will make him more comfortable with his new home.
Make sure you keep your dog on a leash when out of the house. Shelties have an instinct to herd and if loose could chase cars or other moving objects.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Sheltie Portrait image by jodi mcgee from Fotolia.com schwarze schlange mit v image by manu from Fotolia.com dog bones image by Janet Wall from Fotolia.com horse and hound brushes image by mark humphreys from Fotolia.com
