shetland sheepdogs

Question
Hello

I am thinking about getting a sheltie later this year but would like to know more about there temper and suitability as a pet.

I have a bichon/shiz-tuz x would a sheltie get along with her?  

Are they much larger then my other dog in weight and height?

Would a sheltie do ok in a meduim yard and a walk daily?

Are they greedy dogs?

Do they need lots of attention?

Do they enjoy being petted and held?

Are they a very spunky dog breed?

Are they smart?

Are they easily house-broken and trained basic obedance commands?

Thanks

Answer
Nobody is familiar enough with all the breeds to give good answers to all your questions about any breed.  Worse yet are those that think all of a breed are like the few examples they know.  Dogs never read breed descriptions and many of them are not like the book says they should be.  Size and appearance are the more reliable characteristics.  My book suggests the typical Sheltie may be a little larger than a Bichon or Shih-Tzu.  Most of the ones I have seen have been at 4-H dog obedience class.  They are the most common of the smaller dogs there and do very well.  If I was getting a smaller dog, I would seriously consider one.  They do need lots of brushing, but surely no more than the Bichon.   

As for getting along with your other dog, it will go much better if you are firmly in place as top dog, not gruff or mean, just number one.  The most workable 2 dog household is 2 fixed dogs of opposite sex.  Two dominate females may never settle into a peaceful pair.  

You can learn more about typical Shelties at www.akc.org.  You can also find Sheltie rescues at their site.  A good rescue will help you find a Sheltie that needs a home and will be a good fit in yours.  You can have a great little dog for about what a puppy's medical bills would be the first 6 months.