Shetland Sheepdog Age Calculator

CEA is an inherited developmental defect affecting the choroid, retina, and sclera of the eye. It is prevalent in Shetland Sheepdogs and related Collie breeds. The condition ranges from mild choroidal hypoplasia, which may not affect vision, to severe colobomas and retinal detachment that can cause blindness. CEA is present from birth and does not progress, though complications such as retinal detachment can occur. A genetic test is available to identify affected dogs and carriers before breeding.

Prevention: DNA testing for CEA is available and should be performed on all breeding stock. Both parents should be tested, and affected-to-affected breeding must be avoided. Puppies should have an eye examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist before 8 weeks of age, as mild CEA becomes harder to detect after this age due to increased pigmentation. There is no treatment for CEA, but mildly affected dogs typically live normal lives.

Symptoms: may be asymptomatic in mild cases, small or sunken-appearing eyes in severe cases, vision impairment in one or both eyes, bumping into objects (if severe), abnormal pupil appearance

Dermatomyositis is an inherited inflammatory disease affecting the skin and muscles, most commonly seen in Shelties and Collies. The condition causes skin lesions, hair loss, and in severe cases, muscle wasting. Lesions typically appear on the face, ear tips, tail tip, and bony prominences of the legs. The severity is highly variable — some dogs have mild, self-limiting skin changes while others develop debilitating muscle disease. Stress, sun exposure, and hormonal changes can trigger flare-ups.

Prevention: A genetic test identifying risk alleles for DMS is available and should be used in breeding decisions. Avoid breeding two dogs that both carry high-risk alleles. For affected dogs, minimize sun exposure, reduce stress, and avoid trauma to skin. Treatment with immunomodulatory medications such as pentoxifylline and omega-3 fatty acids can help manage symptoms. Mild cases may resolve spontaneously.

Symptoms: hair loss and crusting on face, ears, and tail tip, skin lesions on bony prominences, difficulty eating or swallowing (if muscles affected), muscle wasting, especially jaw and temporal muscles, lameness or stiff gait

Von Willebrand disease is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of von Willebrand factor, a protein essential for platelet adhesion and blood clotting. Shelties can be affected by Type III, the most severe form, which causes spontaneous and prolonged bleeding episodes. Affected dogs are at risk during surgery, dental procedures, or any situation involving tissue damage. The condition is autosomal recessive, meaning both parents must carry the gene for offspring to be affected.

Prevention: DNA testing for vWD Type III is available and should be mandatory for all Sheltie breeding stock. Never breed two carriers together. If your Sheltie is a known carrier or affected, inform all veterinary staff before any surgical or dental procedure so appropriate precautions (desmopressin, blood transfusions) can be arranged. Affected dogs should avoid rough play and trauma.

Symptoms: prolonged bleeding from minor wounds, excessive bleeding during or after surgery, nosebleeds without apparent cause, bloody urine or stool, bruising under the skin

Although the Shetland Sheepdog is a small breed, hip dysplasia occurs at a notable rate in the breed. The condition involves malformation of the hip joint, leading to instability, cartilage damage, and progressive arthritis. In Shelties, the condition is often milder than in larger breeds but can still cause significant discomfort and reduced mobility, particularly impacting their performance in agility and other athletic activities. Small breed dogs may compensate for hip pain more effectively, masking symptoms until the disease is advanced.

Prevention: Select breeders who OFA-certify hips on both parents. Maintain lean body condition throughout life, as even small amounts of excess weight increase joint stress in a small breed. Provide low-impact exercise and joint supplements from middle age. Avoid repetitive high-impact activities such as aggressive agility jumps during the growth period.

Symptoms: reluctance to jump or climb stairs, stiffness after rest or exercise, bunny-hopping gait when running, decreased willingness to play or exercise, difficulty rising from lying position

Hypothyroidism is relatively common in Shetland Sheepdogs, caused by autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland that reduces thyroid hormone production. The condition affects metabolism throughout the body, leading to weight gain, coat changes, and lethargy. In a breed known for its energy and alertness, a Sheltie that becomes sluggish and gains weight despite normal feeding should be tested immediately. The condition is easily managed with daily hormone replacement once diagnosed.

Prevention: Hypothyroidism cannot be prevented, but annual thyroid screening from age 4 ensures early detection. The condition responds well to daily levothyroxine supplementation, which restores normal energy, coat condition, and metabolism. Regular monitoring of thyroid levels is needed to adjust dosing over time.

Symptoms: unexplained weight gain, lethargy and reduced interest in activities, thinning coat or excessive shedding, dry, flaky skin, cold sensitivity and seeking warm spots