The Shetland Sheepdog is a fine-looking animal for a pet, owing to its appealing looks, jovial character, and high intelligence.
Most people socially refer to it as the sheltie. This dog is very quick in learning commands, a reason it is quite a favored family dog.
They are also well known for alertness, which makes it a suitable watchdog as well.
The sheltie is one unique breed that generally loves to show off but generally dislikes water.
This should however not mean that they will give you trouble getting them cleaned up.
They are generally fast learners loved by many family people, especially those in their youthful active years.
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FACT: Pet insurance pays up to 90% of vet bills when your pet is sick or injured!
Is Shetland Sheepdog Dog Insurance Worth the Cost?
This awesome breed you can enjoy having as a new member in the family has a lifespan of 12-14 years and just like many other purebred dogs, the Shetland Sheepdog dog is susceptible to various congenital and genetic health concerns.
It can, therefore, be a wonderful idea to get prepared by going for a dog insurance plan as a precautionary measure, just in case something happens.
You don’t have to look at your dog suffer, just because you don’t have liquid cash at the moment to let a vet attend to it.
There is great value in having a healthy and jovial dog in your home, and thus Shetland Sheepdog Dog Insurance is well worth the cost.
Related: 10 Things You Must Know Before You Buy Pet Insurance
Best Insurance Plans for Shetlands
Every dog breed has its unique health challenges and risks they are faced with.
This is especially the case with pure breeds, and the Shetland Sheepdogs is not exceptional.
This calls for you to look for a plan that caters specifically to the issues your pet dog stands a risk to encounter.
Knowing about the very reliable service providers in the dog insurance industry is one thing, but determining the right and best one for your Shetland Sheepdog is completely another.
Some renowned dog insurance plans for Shetland Sheepdogs include Embrace, AKC, and Pets Best. plans
For the Embrace Insurance plan, your dog is covered for diagnosis, Shetland sheepdog specific conditions, surgery, cancer treatment, specialist care, nursing care, hospitalization, and prescription drug.
Accidents and orthopedics are also covered. In most cases, however, AKC covers are limited to nongenetic conditions.
On the other hand, Pets Best plans include all breed-specific conditions, except hereditary health issues for dogs in Florida and South Carolina.
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Samson
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Samson tore his ACL in a lively game of fetch. After surgery and rehab, Samson is back to his playful self and never turns down a game of fetch!
Comparing Dog Insurance
The fact that Shetland Sheepdogs are prone to hereditary caused health issues, it is important to choose your insurance provider and plan wisely.
This means that you have to also compare the plans analytically, looking at the plans that cover genetic ailments as well as accidents and other health concerns.
Common Sheepdog Health Problems

More than mixed breeds, purebred Shetland Sheepdogs are prone to the following health concerns, most of them being of genetic origin.
- Eye problems These may include Collie Eye Allergies, cataracts.
- Patellar Luxation
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus
- Heart disease where blood rich in oxygen may flow the wrong direction.
- Ear problems Including deafness
- Dermatomyositis – A rare skin condition also referred to as DM or FCD.
- Von Willebrand Disease
- Epileptic disorders – Characterized by seizures and vibrations.
- Legg Perthes
- Canine Cancer
- Hemophilia Canine blood clotting disorder
- Trichiasis
- Lupus Erythematosus – A genetic autoimmune disorder with arthritic symptoms.
- Cryptorchidism Testicular disorder.
For other types of dogs, check out our full list of dog breeds.

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How do you choose a dog breed? There are so many awesome options! We have compiled a complete database about all the dog breeds, their mannerisms, care, and who they do best with. Statistically, some purebreds experience more health issues than mixed breeds. There are many pet insurance companies out there and we have put together a great article about the best puppy and dog pet insurance companies in the US.
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Shetland Sheepdog Pet Insurance
I have heard from many people and I have read in many places that the Shetland Sheepdogs make awesome family pets. They are good with kids, they learn commands quick and follow them carefully and they are great companions. I wasn’t aware that they were susceptible to so many different diseases, but I guess as most purebreds they sure are.