Edmund, the Shetland Sheepdog

This beautiful boy is coming to the Border Collie Boot Camp because he has been misunderstood. Although the Sheltie is known as a wonderful family pet, this boy has what it takes to herd. He has a high-drive, and a wonderful focused eye, but does tend to nip at children. Sound like another breed we know so well? All Edmund needs is a pack leader that undestands his desire to herd, and once he’s given a chance to truly herd, he will leave the kids alone!
Yes, Edmund is a herding dog, and there’s no reason why he can’t deserve a wonderful home where his talents will be utilized, and he can be brought to the next level with an experienced handler.

Update 12/21/09: Edmund truly needs an experienced pack leader. Once he knows that his human is in charge, he lets go of all of his issues, and is thrilled that he doesn’t have to make decisions. Edmund must be adopted by someone who will carry him to the next level and show him how to be a well-balanced dog.

Update 12/22/09: Edmund is still confused about other dogs and new people, but the fact that I have only known him since 12/19 – just 3 days – he’s very attached to me and obeys my commands. Edmund needs a pack leader. Whatever it is that he has been taught has confused him. Edmund needs consistency, and he does NOT need someone to feel sorry for him. Because his name was Happy Jack, we changed it – but lately, we’ve been calling him Captain Jack! There will be no rush to find Edmund a home, he just may need to spend more time here to learn the rules. Edmund needs a home with Rules, Boundaries, and Limitations, and a home that will make that clear to him so he no longer has to live a life of confusion. Just like in the case of Spock (Bailey), it’s so easy to confuse a dog, and send the wrong messages, but with the right handler, it’s easy to get them back on the right track.

It would be easy for me to just find him a home with one owner, but would that solve his problems? No! Will that make him the best dog he can be? No – that’s a coward’s way out. I don’t make excuses for my dogs, nor do I feel sorry for them. “Head High, Be Proud,” I tell them. Edmund needs to be set free and shed the past. Please do not misunderstand me, I’m not saying that his previous owners abused him, many dogs that come out of puppy mills, who have not had the proper puppy pack and mother intervention never learn manners – dog manners. Maybe it’s just as simple as that? Time will tell, but mark my word, he will be an awesome dog!

12/26/09 Update: Edmund is now eating along side of the others in the pack, and playing a bit. He’s learning how to be happy, and more self-confident. We will increase his training time and continue to monitor improvements with his temperament.