Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Shelchons are a beautiful hybrid breed consisting of a Shetland Sheepdog and a Bichon Frise. While it may seem like an unlikely combination, the result of these two dogs breeding is one small fluff ball that has excellent herding and guarding personality traits, while also being a loving and friendly family pet. Even though Shelchons are suitable for both apartments and standard houses, they also require a significant amount of physical and mental activity. And, failure to offer that can mean you say goodbye to some of your much-loved possessions. Shelchons, you will soon realize, are very destructive when you don’t pay them any attention. Avoid the chaos by taking part in any of these activities below.
There is no denying that a Shelchon is a well-behaved dog, but training is necessary to help counteract some of the natural traits they often have. For example, the Shetland Sheepdog is an excellent herding dog, which means the Shelchon is bound to have that to an extent as well. If they are trying to herd smaller pets such as the family cat or smaller dogs, then obedience training can help to correct it. What’s more, obedience classes are a recommended activity for young puppies looking to learn the lay of the land. While sometimes expensive, it’s an all-weather activity that only takes up an hour of your time. Therefore, there’s no harm in booking in, grabbing your leash, a treat, and your furry friend, and hitting the road.
Shelchons are excessive barkers, and you may feel like there is nothing you can do to stop the behavior. After all, they can bark when you arrive home, when you leave, and when people walk by. If you live in a densely populated area of town, the high-pitched barking can wear your patience thin. However, you don’t have to put up with it. Bark training can be an activity you can do with your dog that discourages barking but encourages them to focus their mind on something else. You can train in any weather, it takes five minutes at a time, and you only need a tin can and a few coins or nails.
Not every fun activity for your Shelchon has to cost the earth. There are plenty of low-cost and free games and activities that can entertain them for hours at a time – including the dog park. On a sunny day when you’ve got an hour up your sleeve, pack a toy, clip on your furry friend’s leash, and take a leisurely stroll to the dog park. Even though it’s an easy activity, it’s one that will provide no end of enjoyment for your furry friend. Be sure to include journeys to the dog park into your routine on a regular basis.
Rather than go to the dog park all the time, sometimes a walk is equally as beneficial but can be more convenient. Set 30 to 60 minutes aside and take your pup for a walk through nature, through your neighborhood or your local park. Even though you may not think walking is stimulating, your dog’s senses are going wild for everything that’s happening around them.
If you have to leave your dog alone for a few hours, or you are having a lazy day at home indoors, then chew toys can be an excellent activity option for your furry friend. Not only do they provide an alternative to chewing your shoes, but they can be a distraction that gives you time to carry out chores and other bits and pieces around the home.
If you’re tired of picking up shoe confetti because you haven’t given your Shelchon enough love and attention, then listen up. These activities above are going to help you not only train your pup to be more well behaved but thoroughly stimulated after playing with other dogs as well. After all, being bored when all you want to do is play is pretty ruff. Make sure you give your Shelchon at least an hour, if not more, of mental and physical stimulation every day.