Shetland Sheepdog Health Guide
Everything shetland sheepdog owners need to know about keeping their dog healthy.
Breed Overview
Shetland Sheepdogs, often called Shelties, are small herding dogs developed on Scotland’s Shetland Islands. They are known for being intelligent, trainable, sensitive, and highly responsive to their families. Their athleticism and willingness to work make them stand out in obedience, agility, and other dog sports. From a health perspective, the breed has several inherited conditions owners should know about early, especially eye disease, hip dysplasia, thyroid disease, dermatomyositis, drug sensitivity related to the MDR1 mutation, von Willebrand disease, and epilepsy. Responsible breeders commonly use OFA/CHIC screening to help reduce inherited risk.
Common Health Issues
Eye diseases
Shelties can be affected by inherited eye problems, including Collie eye anomaly and progressive retinal atrophy. Watch for vision changes, bumping into things, dilated pupils, or night blindness. Annual eye exams with a veterinary ophthalmologist are commonly recommended.
Hip dysplasia
Although smaller than many dogs with this problem, Shelties can still develop hip dysplasia. Signs may include stiffness, reluctance to jump, bunny-hopping, or decreased activity. Your vet may recommend imaging if mobility changes appear.
von Willebrand disease
This inherited bleeding disorder can lead to prolonged bleeding after injury, surgery, nail trims, or dental work. Some dogs have no obvious signs until a procedure or trauma happens. Let your vet know if your Sheltie bruises easily or has unexplained bleeding.
MDR1 drug sensitivity
Shetland Sheepdogs are one of the breeds known to carry the MDR1 mutation, which can increase sensitivity to certain medications. Always tell any veterinarian your dog is a Sheltie and ask whether MDR1 testing is appropriate before giving new medications.
Dermatomyositis
Dermatomyositis, sometimes called Sheltie skin syndrome, is an inherited inflammatory disease of the skin and muscles seen in young Shelties and Collies. Skin sores, crusting, hair loss, or painful lesions on the face, ears, tail tip, or feet should be checked by a vet.
Epilepsy and seizure disorders
Epilepsy is reported in the breed. Seizures, collapse, abnormal twitching, or episodes of disorientation always warrant veterinary advice. Sudden severe or repeated seizures are an emergency.
Preventive Care Schedule
Shetland Sheepdogs need routine preventive care like any dog, including core vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, and regular wellness exams. Breed-specific screening matters too. The American Shetland Sheepdog Association recommends OFA/CHIC screening with hip dysplasia evaluation and eye clearance as required tests, plus additional testing from options such as dermatomyositis DNA testing, von Willebrand disease DNA testing, MDR1 DNA testing, autoimmune thyroiditis screening, Collie eye anomaly DNA testing, and elbow evaluation. Because OFA notes that annual CAER eye re-examination is recommended, ongoing eye checks are especially important for this breed. Ask your vet which tests are most appropriate for your dog’s age, symptoms, and breeding status.
When to Use Telehealth for Your Shetland Sheepdog
Telehealth can be especially helpful for Sheltie owners when you need quick guidance about skin flare-ups, mild limping, questions after genetic test results, dental home-care planning, medication safety concerns in a dog that may carry the MDR1 mutation, or deciding whether eye, skin, or neurologic changes need same-day in-person care. It can also help you prepare for breeder conversations about OFA and CHIC screening. Telehealth is not a substitute for hands-on care if your dog has active bleeding, a seizure, trouble breathing, sudden blindness, collapse, severe pain, or worsening weakness—those situations should be treated as urgent or emergency problems, and you should call your vet right away.
Shetland Sheepdog Health FAQs
What health problems are Shetland Sheepdogs prone to?
Should my Sheltie be tested for MDR1?
How often should a Shetland Sheepdog have eye exams?
Are seizures common in Shelties?
How can I lower my Sheltie’s risk of inherited disease?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.