If you didn't own shelties...

I don't own one because I cannot give it the time it needs or the space it needs for a healthy lifestyle. So, knowing that, I admire them from a distance (or up close if their owners let me pet them :wink2:).

That's exactly how I feel about Salukis. There's no way I could have one right now. They're pretty independent and hard-headed and need a LOT of space that I can't give. But that doesn't stop me from constantly watching youtube videos :P

I think i'll always have shelties though. They're just too adorable and perfect not to.
 
A doberman- beautiful dogs, intelligent, they bond strongly to their owners(like sheltie), they have a great sense of humor and are protective but not crazy over the top with it. The vet I use to work for had them I fell in love. All of my Dobie patients have been dolls. Why I don't have one now- one reason, health issues. Horrible health problems in the breed. Avg lifespan is only 7-8yrs. Some do well, alot don't.:(

JRT or PRT what ever you want to call them. Why because I'm masochistic:lol. Sorry Darby. No seriously. I love their spunk, their fire, They are active, tough little dogs. Smart is whips but won't give you anything if you don't have their respect. Get it and they are fabulous. I have fostered quite a few for short periods of time. They just work for me.

Rat terrier- same as the JRT although a slightly more mellow version.
 
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A substitue for a Sheltie?????????????????????????

Let me begin by saying that for me there is simply no substitute for a Sheltie and no other breed that would fit my personality and living situation any better. That being said, and if I had enough room, a rough collie would be my next choice. I had one as a child and he was a great dog who passed away far to early. My next choice would an Aussie. Some friends have one that is a bit undersized for the breed, but a wonderful dog with a lovely personality. But, no, its Shelties for me all the way.
 
I would love to have a Samoyed as they are generally docile, friendly and easy-going and great family dogs but unfortunately I live in Arizona and they're not suited for hot weather :cry:. So, maybe a Golden Retriever since they're generally great family dogs with a wonderful temperament.
 
Geez, I can't imagine not having a sheltie!

I was very attached to a neighbor's cocker spaniel when I was a little girl so I'd probably get one of those. I'd love a black one. King Charles spaniels are cute little dogs too, I love their soft temperment.

On the opposite end of the spectrum I think I'd like a boxer. I just think they're so beautiful and love their goofy personalities. But I think I'd have to get a divorce first, dh doesn't like big dogs. :lol:
 
I've always loved Belgian Tervuren and Belgian Sheepdogs. I also might consider a Pyrenean Shepherd, but only after I have at least 3 Shelties in the house, 5 acres and I'm independently wealthy, so I can spend all my time playing with the dogs.
 
I am afraid they really would be smarter than me and then what would I do.

Ummm...


Smudge's sheltie mind games are enough for me. :lol: I think all of our shelties are probably smarter than us whether we want to admit it or not. :biggrin2:

I agree though. I love border collies, but those are another one of those dogs I'll have to admire from afar.
 
Let's see.... the tops of my list (can't imagine not having a sheltie, though)...

American Eskimo
Siberian Husky
Had a Samoyed Husky Mix as a kid/teen and loved him too!!
My hubby loves Corgis too...

Kerri :)
 
I love border collies, but those are another one of those dogs I'll have to admire from afar.

I agree, I think Border Collies are probably the coolest dogs because of how hard-working, intelligent, and athletic they are but definitely one of those I have to admire from afar as they're very high-energy dogs. Lovely creatures!
 
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