The Blue Merle Sheltie
The Blue Merle Sheltie, also known as a Shetland Sheepdog, is a popular and unique variation of the Sheltie breed. Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and agility, these dogs make great companions for families with children. If you’re interested in purchasing a Blue Merle Sheltie puppy, it’s important to understand the breed and what to expect when caring for them.
Appearance
The Blue Merle Sheltie is a small to medium-sized dog that has a double coat. The undercoat is thick and the topcoat is long and straight. Their fur is a combination of black, gray, and white, with a distinctive blue-gray or “blue merle” coloring. They have a pointed muzzle, pointed ears, and a fluffy tail that is often carried over their back. They resemble miniature versions of their larger cousin, the Rough Collie.
Personality
Blue Merle Shelties are known for their intelligence and trainability. They are highly responsive to training and eager to please, making them easy to train for various tasks such as obedience, agility, and even therapy work. They are also very loyal and protective of their owners, making them great watchdogs.
Due to their herding instincts, they have a strong desire to chase and herd moving objects, which can sometimes lead to nipping behavior, especially with children and other pets. This can be controlled with proper training and socialization.
Care and Training
Blue Merle Shelties require regular grooming to maintain the health and appearance of their thick double coat. They should be brushed at least twice a week and trimmed every few months. They are also prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, so it’s important to keep them at a healthy weight and provide them with regular exercise.
As with all breeds, it is important to start training and socialization at an early age. Blue Merle Shelties are highly trainable and eager to please, so training them should be a positive experience for both you and your puppy. Basic obedience training, socialization, and leash training should be a priority. As they have strong herding instincts, it is also important to teach them basic commands to help keep them from chasing after people and other pets.
Health
Blue Merle Shelties are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health issues to be aware of include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. To help ensure the health of your puppy, it’s important to work with a reputable breeder and to provide them with regular veterinary care.
Finding a Blue Merle Sheltie Puppy for Sale
When looking for a Blue Merle Sheltie puppy for sale, it’s important to choose a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder will be able to provide you with information about the puppy’s parents and their health history, as well as information about the puppy’s temperament and personality. They should also be able to provide you with information about feeding, grooming, and training.
It’s also important to visit the breeder and see the puppy in person before making a purchase. This will give you an opportunity to ask questions and see the puppy’s living conditions. Look for clean and well-maintained facilities and a breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and willing to answer your questions.
The cost of a Blue Merle Sheltie puppy can vary depending on the breeder and location. On average, you can expect to pay between $1000 and $3000 for a Blue Mer