Shethund

Dog Breed Profile

Shethund History

The Shethund is an ancient breed of Indian cattle-dog. Shethunds are traditional livestock guardians, herding and protecting their herd from predators. Shethunds were traditionally used to maintain the order of herds in villages throughout India. Shethunds are still used for this today, but when villagers have to travel long distances in search of pasture, their Shethunds often accompany them. Shethunds are often used by farmers to protect sheep and goats from predators. Shethunds are also commonly used to guard poultry flocks, as well as horses, camels, and asses. Shethunds have now been recognized by the Kennel Club of India, and they are now considered rare.

Time of Origin

2000s

Country of Origin

United States Of America

Ancestry

Shetland Sheepdog, Dachshund

Shethund Physical Characteristics

The Shethund is a medium sized, muscular, and athletic dog bred as a working breed. They stand between 22-28 inches at the withers, depending on the individual. Their average weight ranges from 70-100 lbs., with males averaging 8-14 lbs heavier than females. They have a thick, double layer coat of a coarse, shaggy texture. The Shethund has a rectangular head with a tapering muzzle, and clear, intelligent brown eyes. Their ears are triangular and hang down. The tail is docked, and is usually carried upward. The Shethund has a proud, confident personality, and is a keen watchdog.

Eye Colors

Blue, Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Black, Brown, Cream, Sable, Blue, White

Height Range

Male Height Range: 8 – 16 inches

Female Height Range: 8 – 16 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 10 – 18 lbs

Female Weight Range: 10 – 18 lbs

Shethund Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-14 yrs

Shethund Health Concerns

Intervertebral Disc Disease, Deafness, Dermatomyositis, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Acanthosis Nigricans, Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), Demodicosis, Cataracts, Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism, Microphthalmia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Canine Cushing’s Disease, Joint Dysplasia, Urolithiasis

Shethund Temperament and Behaviour

The Shethund is a gentle, loving, and devoted companion. They are mild-mannered and easy going, but are also very playful. They are highly intuitive and protective, and will protect their family with their life. They also get along well with other dogs.

Shethund Activity Requirements

Shethunds are a high-energy, intelligent herding dog that originated in the Shetland Islands. They are a very popular, and very cute, dog that can be seen in parades, shows, and competitions around the world. Shethunds have a lot of energy and they need regular mental and physical stimulation. They are happiest when they have a job to do and they are best suited to an active home. Shethunds do very well in obedience training and many compete in agility and herding trials. Because of their energy and intelligence, Shethunds will get bored easily if they are not given things to do. If you are looking for a Shethund, be sure you are prepared to give them lots of exercise and fun things to do.