Breed Health
Shetland Sheepdog Health Issues
A generally healthy herding breed, though a few hereditary conditions — some tied to its merle coat gene — are worth watching for.
Common Hereditary Conditions
Collie Eye Anomaly
An inherited eye condition affecting the retina, present from birth in affected dogs; a DNA test can identify carriers before breeding.
Hip Dysplasia
A joint malformation that can affect mobility; screening of breeding parents lowers the odds in puppies.
MDR1 Drug Sensitivity
A genetic mutation shared with related herding breeds causes sensitivity to certain medications; a simple DNA test identifies carriers.
Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid appears somewhat more often in this breed, causing weight gain and lethargy; a blood panel diagnoses it.
Preventive Care
Requesting eye and hip clearances, along with an MDR1 test result, from a breeder covers the most significant hereditary risks. Avoiding breeding two merle-patterned dogs together further reduces the odds of eye and ear defects in puppies. Periodic thyroid panels as the dog ages round out a solid preventive routine.
Did You Know?
The Sheltie shares the MDR1 drug sensitivity mutation with several related herding breeds, including the Collie and Australian Shepherd, all descended from similar working stock.
Shetland Sheepdog Gifts
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