Dog Breeding
Best Age To Breed A Dog (Male & Female)
5 min read
Find out the best age to breed dogs and the key factors involved. Ensure your dog’s health and safety with our expert breeding insights.
December 4, 20251,187 views
Connect with responsible Sheltie breeders who prioritize health testing, temperament, and the unique qualities of these intelligent herding dogs
Essential characteristics to consider when breeding these intelligent herding companions
12-14 years
With proper care
Intelligent, Devoted
Sensitive breed
Discover what makes Shetland Sheepdogs exceptional breeding companions and cherished family members
Shelties offer all the intelligence and devotion of Rough Collies in a perfectly sized package. Their 15-25 pound frame makes them ideal for families seeking the Collie temperament without the large size.
Most intelligent dog breed
Stunning beauty in a perfect package
Their remarkable sensitivity creates extraordinary bonds with families. This emotional intelligence makes them incredibly intuitive companions who sense and respond to human emotions beautifully.
Natural watchdogs with distinctive barking patterns. Their alertness makes them excellent property guardians who announce visitors enthusiastically while maintaining discerning judgment.
Ranking #6 in canine intelligence, Shelties learn commands in fewer than 5 repetitions and obey 95% of the time. Their herding heritage creates problem-solving abilities that amaze families daily.
Breeding preserves centuries of herding excellence
Shelties form unbreakable bonds with their families. Their devotion creates shadow dogs who follow you room to room, always ready to offer comfort, play, or quiet companionship.
These exceptional traits make Shetland Sheepdogs one of the most beloved family companions
Follow these essential guidelines for responsible Sheltie breeding excellence
Patience creates excellence! Waiting until 2 years ensures full maturity and comprehensive health testing. Quality breeding produces 3-4 wonderful litters of brilliant herding companions.
Comprehensive testing creates genetic excellence! MDR1 and CEA testing empower brilliant breeding decisions.
Females
Once per year maximum, 3-4 litters lifetime
Recovery
Skip at least one heat cycle between litters
Shelties bless families with 4-6 precious puppies per litter! Your attentive care ensures smooth deliveries.
Your focus on temperament creates devoted, intelligent companions ready to excel!
Luxurious double coat rewards dedicated care with stunning beauty families adore!
Early experiences create confident champions ready for any adventure!
Connect with verified Sheltie owners for safe and ethical breeding
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog mix
Shetland Sheepdog mix
Shetland Sheepdog
From profile to puppies - your shetland sheepdog breeding journey in 4 simple steps
Set up a detailed profile with photos, health records, and pedigree information
Browse verified breeding partners based on breed, location, and compatibility
Message owners directly to discuss breeding plans and health certifications
Meet safely, complete breeding agreements, and welcome healthy puppies
Set up a detailed profile with photos, health records, and pedigree information
Browse verified breeding partners based on breed, location, and compatibility
Message owners directly to discuss breeding plans and health certifications
Meet safely, complete breeding agreements, and welcome healthy puppies
Join thousands of responsible shetland sheepdog owners who trust us for quality breeding connections
Every breeder is verified, ensuring you connect with genuine, responsible pet owners.
Find breeding partners near you to make meetings convenient and stress-free.
Customize your search with detailed filters for breed, age, health status, and more.
Chat directly with pet owners to discuss all details before making any commitments.
Join thousands of responsible shetland sheepdog owners who've found quality breeding partners on Petmeetly.
Get Started NowReal stories from dog owners who found perfect breeding matches on Petmeetly
Great app, made everything easier, thanks
Milad Kathawa
Ontario, CA
Good experience. Found a mate but would love to find more!
Jordan
Oklahoma, US
I think everything went great! They had a breeding date this week. We are hopeful that we’ll hear about puppies in the next month or so!
Cassandra Winterrowd
Alabama, US
Follow these essential guidelines for responsible and successful Sheltie breeding
Patience creates excellence! Waiting until 2 years ensures full maturity and comprehensive health testing. Quality breeding produces 3-4 wonderful litters of brilliant herding companions.
MDR1 and CEA testing empowers brilliant breeding decisions
Once per year maximum
3-4 lifetime maximum
Skip at least one heat cycle between litters. Shelties bless families with 4-6 precious puppies per litter!
Critical socialization for brilliance
Key Focus Areas:
Early socialization creates devoted, intelligent Shelties ready for their families.
MDR1 Safety Testing
~85% of Shelties are clear
Color Genetics
Smart merle breeding practices
Vision Protection
CEA and PRA testing essential
Modern genetic testing preserves the brilliant Sheltie heritage while improving health.
Temperament Excellence
Select for confident stability
Color Excellence
Never breed merle to merle
Grooming Education
Share grooming joy with families
Size Standards
Maintain ideal 13-16 inch height
Connect with verified Sheltie owners for safe and ethical breeding
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog mix
Shetland Sheepdog mix
Shetland Sheepdog
From profile to puppies - your shetland sheepdog breeding journey in 4 simple steps
Set up a detailed profile with photos, health records, and pedigree information
Browse verified breeding partners based on breed, location, and compatibility
Message owners directly to discuss breeding plans and health certifications
Meet safely, complete breeding agreements, and welcome healthy puppies
Set up a detailed profile with photos, health records, and pedigree information
Browse verified breeding partners based on breed, location, and compatibility
Message owners directly to discuss breeding plans and health certifications
Meet safely, complete breeding agreements, and welcome healthy puppies
Join thousands of responsible shetland sheepdog owners who trust us for quality breeding connections
Every breeder is verified, ensuring you connect with genuine, responsible pet owners.
Find breeding partners near you to make meetings convenient and stress-free.
Customize your search with detailed filters for breed, age, health status, and more.
Chat directly with pet owners to discuss all details before making any commitments.
Join thousands of responsible shetland sheepdog owners who've found quality breeding partners on Petmeetly.
Get Started NowReal stories from dog owners who found perfect breeding matches on Petmeetly
Excellent app! Thanks to Petmeetly, Joey found his girlfriend, and I even got one of their daughters—my sweet Holly. 🥰
Michele Silva
Massachusetts, US
Everything has been great! Thank you, Kevin. I’ll be meeting up with Olive from Petmeetly in October
Aarthy
Victoria, AU
I think your site is awesome! I got the results I wanted within just 48 hours. The only thing I’d change is the name — Petmeetly doesn’t feel very catchy. Maybe something fun like Rin-Tin-Tinder? 😂
Tatiana
Washington, US
Your commitment to MDR1 and CEA testing creates thriving bloodlines and ensures medication safety for every precious Sheltie
Empowers safe medication choices! Your knowledge protects Shelties throughout their beautiful lives.
CEA Genetic Testing
Creates clear-eyed champions
PRA Testing
Maintains brilliant sight
Annual eye exams celebrate healthy vision
OFA or PennHIP evaluation celebrates agility! Sound structure ensures graceful movement.
Shelties dance through life with comfortable movement and herding prowess.
Family history awareness promotes healthy coats and strong bodies! Your attention creates lustrous coats.
Your care ensures stunning beauty
Von Willebrand's testing ensures surgical safety! Your comprehensive approach creates peace of mind.
Ensures safe medical procedures
Comprehensive testing creates brilliant bloodlines that thrive for generations.
Your excellence shows in every puppy
Your dedication to MDR1 testing creates medication safety excellence! This simple test empowers veterinarians to choose the perfect medications for each Sheltie's unique genetics. Knowledge is power!
Your testing creates healthier generations
Expert advice and tips for Sheltie breeding
Find out the best age to breed dogs and the key factors involved. Ensure your dog’s health and safety with our expert breeding insights.
Understand the importance of socializing your pet. This guide will help you create positive experiences for your pet, ensuring they thrive in various environments.
Planning to breed your dog? Use our step-by-step dog breeding checklists to manage health tests, mating, whelping and puppy care—always with vet-backed guidance.
Get answers to common questions about breeding Shetland Sheepdogs responsibly
MDR1 genetic testing empowers medication safety! This simple test identifies how each Sheltie processes medications, allowing veterinarians to choose perfect treatments. Your testing ensures every Sheltie receives safe, effective care throughout their brilliant lives. Knowledge creates confident healthcare!
CEA genetic testing celebrates clear vision! This comprehensive eye health program helps you select for excellent sight. Many Shelties with mild CEA live perfectly normal lives with full vision. Your testing creates bloodlines with healthy, bright eyes to watch over their families!
Shelties showcase stunning beauty with regular grooming! Daily brushing becomes cherished bonding time. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks maintains their magnificent appearance. Their luxurious double coat rewards your care with breathtaking beauty. Many families treasure these grooming rituals as special moments together!
Shelties create magical family bonds! Their brilliant intelligence and devotion make them exceptional companions for children. Early socialization develops their natural confidence beautifully. Their alertness makes them wonderful watchdogs who announce visitors. These sensitive souls form deep, lasting connections with their families!
MDR1 mutation causes sensitivity to certain drugs including ivermectin. Common in Shelties - test all breeding dogs. Affected dogs can have fatal reactions to common medications. Two copies most dangerous. Inform all vets about MDR1 status.
CEA is inherited eye disease affecting 15% of Shelties. Ranges from mild to blindness. Puppies examined at 6-8 weeks before condition masks. Genetic test available. Carriers common but can be bred carefully to clear dogs.
Shelties were bred to bark while herding, alerting to predators. Barking is hardwired breed trait. Without training, becomes excessive. Not apartment-friendly unless bark training prioritized from puppyhood. Mental stimulation reduces barking.
DMS causes skin lesions and muscle inflammation in young Shelties. Genetic with variable expression. Triggered by stress, vaccines, sunlight. No cure but manageable. Affected dogs shouldn't be bred. Can be mild or severe.
No, Shelties are distinct breed, not miniature Rough Collies. Developed in Shetland Islands from various breeds. Similar appearance but different temperament - Shelties more reserved and vocal. Size difference significant: Shelties 13-16 inches vs Collies 22-26 inches.
Idiopathic epilepsy affects some Sheltie lines. Usually appears 1-5 years old. Genetic but complex inheritance. Manageable with medication but expensive. Don't breed affected dogs or those producing epileptic offspring.
Discover breeding guides for different dog breeds and find the perfect match for your breeding program
Join our community of responsible Shetland Sheepdog breeders committed to preserving this noble breed