HEARTFELT SHELTIES

From Our Sheltie Families

Hi Donna,
The herding pics look great! Thank You!
Simon got to work 11 spring lamb babies, all at the same time, yesterday.  The lambs have not been worked by other dogs, only the owners, (Simon's trainer) own ranch dog which is a german shepherd. She is slowly trying to "dog break" them. She wanted Simon to work them because he is such a calm & quiet worker, so he would not be as apt to stress them out. I'm sure he was thinking: "Hey! These sheep are smaller then me! What's up with that??..........I like it!"
I tell people that he herds like the the pig in the movie "Babe". LOL! You can almost hear him saying "Excuse me ladies & gents, would you mind moving forward? So very kind of you. Thank You."  LOL! He's so polite with sheep, only putting pressure when needed like a bark or a tiny "nip", no teeth, to a leg. It's almost more like a "push" with his mouth.  I have never seen him "grip" or bite the sheep, which is a BIG no-no. He likes to use his nose and bump-thump them, too. So cute! He's such a good boy! OK, enough proud mom talk!
That little Spencer boy is going to be fun to watch grow up on youe site! He's beautiful! Love those tri's!
Your web site looks great! Keep up the good work. I'll check back from time to time to say "hi", and with any updates on my "furkids".
You're right, except for the standing ear on Ringo, Carly and he are almost identical! Two beautiful Spider kids! They take after their mommy!
Best wishes! So glad your back!
Love,
Kim, Carly & Simon
Wow!  You are speedy!  Thank you for posting the pictures - I'm very proud of my two shelties!  We get so many compliments whenwe take them for walks.  In fact, I'm sure some people are sorry they stop to talk to them because I go through the WHOLE story of how we came across Heartfelt Shelties by accident, etc., etc.,...then proceed to say say Barbara Jean and Andy are half-brother and sister (same dad), etc., etc.....and how we developed a friendship with their wonderful breeder, etc., etc...  By this time, they are looking at me cross-eyed with a glazed expression thinking of someway to escape this loony woman.  That's ok because I know someone else will be walking by and I can tell them the Heartfelt story.  Marie
 


Hi Donna:
Cherie (and Dave) Harris here- 
 
Yippee!  Woo-hoo!  It's about time!  We're so excited!
 
Need I say more for now?  Anyway, we're up for a picnic--if you can arrange it we'll be happy to bring some of the food if it will help you out...  Let us know.  
 
Love, with licks and barks from Gray and Jack, too
Cherie and Dave 


Hi, This Debbie .  Jim and I got two sister from you all.  We named them Lucie and Gracie.  They are going to six years old on August Bonnie was their mother.  They are doing great.  Gracie is still a daddy's girl and Lucie loves her family.

We never deleted Heartfelt Shelties from our Favorite List and I was scrolling down the site and accidently hit on it.  Much to my surprise it came up.  Our family has thought of you often especially when we look our two girls.  Hope you and your family are doing well.

Glad you are back in breeding Shelties because we need good breeders with good reputations.  We hope you all much success as you start up Heartfelt Shelties again.
 Your friends
 Jim and Debbie 



Our dearest Donna, your wonderful email made our day!!  We have never forgotten you and prayed for this day.  You gave us two of the most important things in our life.  We know our Barbara Jean and Andy came from the sincerest and most ethical breeder.  It's wonderful to know someone else will have the opportunity to own one of your shelties again. Please stay in touch and keep us updated on Heartfelt Shelties.  The friendship we developed will forever be!  Love, Marie and Bill 
So great to hear from you. Summer is such a love - very protective over her flock.  I pray that you continue to do the work that you are called to do!
Sally
 

I am so glad to hear you are back in business.  Surely know you also have many grateful friends, both human and canine.  There has not been a day since we were blessed with Tippi’s arrival in our home that we have not thanked you for the wonderful opportunity we have had in owning her.  We know we have an unusual dog and are often told that!  Her intelligence and sweet temperament are a result of the very loving start she had in life and the careful breeding that preceded her birth.  There is always a story for us to tell about Tippi.  The one I would share with you today is this: Last October, my mother passed away at age 93 after a short but difficult illness.  She and Tippi had a special bond and Tippi visited often at St. Edward’s in Akron, both in my mother’s independent living apartment and then, later, in the nursing home part of the facility.  Tippi always quieted herself there and greeted all of the frail elderly she encountered in a gentle, friendly and respectful way.  We didn’t teach her that…she just “knew.”  In Mom’s last day’s, she was cared for with hospice at her apartment.  Just a short time before her death, I took Tippi to visit her for the last time.  Tippi knew something was not right.  She planted her backside in my lap (in a chair next to the bed) and then inched her nose and front paws across the bedcovers to Mom’s hand.  When she got no response to her licks on Mom’s hand, she pushed her nose under Mom’s fingers.  She remained that way, without moving, for almost 10 minutes.  Not sleeping…just resting there.  Waiting, I think. The hospice care nurse with us said, “Doesn’t that dog want to get down?”  I answered that she would when she was ready.  And, eventually, Tippi did quietly go down to the floor to lie down and wait there.  I know that Mom was aware of Tippi’s presence and that she was comforted by it.  As I was.

So, if you need encouragement to keep on with spreading the love, consider me a grateful supporter.  As I have said before, you do much more than just breed dogs.  You have provided your clients with something priceless and uncommon.

Susan 



Hi Donna!  It is so good to hear from you!  :)  I want you to know that Belle is still as beautiful as she was the day we got her from you and we couldn't love her more!  :)  Here's a picture of her with her Daddy!  She is his pride and joy!  :) There's also a winter picture attached that I just love.  It shows off her beautiful mane,.  Unfortunately, when summer hits she gets too hot so we actually have her cut down pretty short right now, and she looks like a gray fox!   :)  Keep in touch, and if you do decide to have a get together, we would be happy to come, and would love to participate!  You do have a family out here and we're behind you 100%!  :)














 Hi Donna, What a wonderful surprise to hear from you!  We are all doing well.  Hope everyone is doing well over there!!
 Carly, (by Panda & Spider, DOB: 5/4/2007) has her AKC Novice Agility Standard (STD), & Jumps with Weaves (JWW), Open STD & JWW and her first leg in a Novice FAST, hope to put he second leg on her tomorrow at North Olmstead.  In CPE, she has level 1, most of level 2, working on level 3.  Pretty much she has accomplished all of this in less than a year showing every few months---ALWAYS a Q ! ! ! !  I could cover a large wall with all her ribbons, all but 3 being 1st place ribbons ! ! !  Not to brag ! ! ! ! LOL !  She also has an AKC HT title in herding.  She shows more interest in ducks then sheep, so we might look into duck herding for her.  Next month, I hope to get her first legs in Excellent STD and finish Novice FAST.  We will also be competing in CPE levels 2-3 that month.  She just turned 4.  I call her my little "college professor in a dog suit"!   She is so smart and knows me so well, it's scary ! ! ! ! !   :)  Simon, or blue ribbon as you might remember, (by Blitz & Sparkle 3/24/09) is a lean mean herding machine ! ! ! !  He just turned 2, and by the age of 18 months had his AKC HT, PT and started level titles in sheep.  He got his level 1 HTAD on sheep in April, of this year.  That is an American Herding Breed Association title.  He's now learning to drive the sheep which is a whole new "ball game" so it could be another year or so until he is shown again.  As you know Shelties are a gathering breed not a driving breed, so driving goes against their nature.  Just turning 2 years old, I have been told, to accomplish so much in such a short time is amazing ! ! He is very talented and lives to herd!  I could not love two dogs more than these two!.  They have changed my life 360 degrees!  They have gotten me out of the house, making friends, and helping others in agility & herding, by passing on our experiences, both good & bad.  I feel like a "soccer mom" driving here & there, but instead I'm going to agility classes, herding classes, or trials! LOL!  Everyday I'm off with one or both Shelties.  I'm getting ready to take Simon to herding practice this AM and Carly has an agility trial tomorrow.  :)  I am so looking forward to you being back!  We have missed you so much!  I am told all the time how beautiful Carly & Simon are! Carly has such a thick, long, shiny coat.  Simon is still getting in his adult coat, but the color is a rich red.  I get wonderful comments on him all the time.  Since day one, both have been very social and loving to people and other dogs which I thank you for.  I know from the start, all the hard work you put into the puppies makes all the difference in  how they view life !!
 Best wishes!
Love, 
Kim, Carly & Simon



Hi ladies hope this picture comes through. Piper and I just enjoyed a walk around the park. I love this dog ! She doesn't pull or chase anyone or anything and I don't have to worry that she will turn into Cujo either. She really is amazing. I love that I can take her anywhere and she will be a little angel ! Thank you ! You are very good at what you do ! Keep doing it !  Hope your new pending mommies are doing well. How many puppies do you think you will have ? Keep us posted. Gotta go train Piper now. Talk to you soon,  Christy.









Hello Donna and Doreen, I can't believe that they are almost a year old. Thank you so much for letting them join our family. We are so happy that we got them both. I can't imagine just one of them without the other.I really enjoy the e-mails you send.  The boys send their love and hope you enjoy their photos. As you can see they are happy little boys and very spoiled. Take care and stay safe.  Love,  Pati





Happy Holidays to you and your family, from our home to yours.  I couldn’t resist sending this picture of Tippi. She loves to sit on the back of the couch to watch television with us (she actually DOES watch and especially likes Animal Planet). Often she sits with her paws on my shoulder and her head atop mine…but, sometimes the day was long or the program is boring…then she relaxes as you see here! We have so much enjoyment with Tippi. She definitely has a sense of fun and believes humans were invented to play with her and to love her. I have had dogs all of my life and never had one as responsive or with a personality as endearing as Tippi’s. She is just a treasure to us. You do more than breed and sell dogs…you create loving relationships.  Susan



I wanted to call you but I can't even find the words to say how much we love this little guy. I keep thinking that this is a fluke and he will turn into a little terror soon. He is wonderful!!!! We can't believe his personality, you have been saying what a little ham he is and you were right, he seems to know how special he is, that strut of his makes us laugh constantly. Are you sure he shouldn't be a show dog, he certainly thinks he is already! It almost makes me nervous to brag but he has not had one bad moment. All the way home he slept, either on my lap or in his soft crate on the back seat. We stopped at a BP so he could pee under the canopy, I put his coat and leash on and he strutted beside me like he had been trained already. He stays so close to my legs that I have to walk backwards so I can watch to make sure he does his business. I take him out every 3 hours give or take and he immediately does the necessary deeds, he love to jump around in the snow, such a little clown. We come back inside and he stays out of his crate and plays for nearly an hour then he is ready for a nap so into the crate he goes. I am taking him out around 3am. other then that he sleeps the whole night, he never whined at all, even the first night. It's like he already knew this was home! I can't thank you ladies enough for the wonderful start he had in life, I am telling everyone I know that Heartfelt and you girls are the best. Bailey and I went to my moms yesterday and he adores my nephew who is 10. They played and played. The only time Bailey has complained was at my moms, he was in his crate and he started barking and whining. It didn't seem normal so I got him out and we went back outside, he had went out to pee and hour or two before but this time he had to poop! It was so funny! I guess he will surely let us know when he has to go! Our cat Muffy is keeping a close eye on him and he on her, they have n't gotten up the nerve to come too close but at least Muffy isn't in hiding. I'm sure they will be good friends. He is eating and drinking well and he loves having his coat on to go outside. There just isn't anything bad I can say. Oh and he loves the big barking toy and blanket you gave him, that's how I knew his personality was special when he didn't shy away from the toy making noises. He really isn't intimidated by anything, we are so happy he isn't shy and skittish. Guess that is another benefit of Heartfelts way of socializing. I was worried Monday evening coming home in all that rain and cold, I couldn't imagine taking this little guy out in winter weather, but we just put on our coats and outside we go, no fuss no muss! Oh I almost forgot to say how beautiful he is, I wish I hadn't broken my camera this weekend, then again I probably wouldn't get a thing done but taking pictures of him If I had one. Danny can't believe how soft his coat is, he keeps saying he doesn't feel real, more like a stuffed animal ( he sure does give his stuffed toys heck). Well now you know why I didn't return your call, I had way to much to say! We love him and we are so blessed to have him as part of our family and blessed to have met you all. Talk to you later. God Bless, Sandy, Danny and Bailey Boy.



Tippi traveled with us last weekend. Although it was her first trip of any distance, she rode like a pro in the back seat with a doggy seat belt harness. She joined us on the Ohio River on a paddlewheel ferry, and then toured in a horse-drawn covered wagon at Blennerhassett Island in Parkersburg, West Virginia! She put her nose to the wind on the boat, enjoying the view, and never even blinked at the horses pulling the covered wagon. We had to buy her a child’s ticket for the wagon ride, but that seemed appropriate!! J We visited a historical museum in Parkersburg…no dogs allowed…except Tippi. She was invited in and rested in the cool air in her travel crate, greeting guests at the museum entrance under supervision of the museum receptionist, while we toured the exhibits. She was even invited in and given dog treats at a Convenient Food Mart (also “no dogs allowed”). Our only problem was convincing her that a motel dog yard was an O.K. place to potty. Her manners were so good and her attitude so friendly that she was really treated like a service dog most of the places that we went. She is quite a charmer! It doesn’t get any better than having a dog like Tippi.  Susan


Hi Ladies.  Hope all is going well. Glad you are doing better Donna. Hope you continue in your recovery. Piper is doing very well. She continues on her quest for social skills and obedience. She does really well with the heeling and the recall, mostly because she is like Velcro to me. Which is fine. We are starting a second round of obedience classes in two weeks and I am excited for her. She is going back to Belinda's group and I hope Belinda will be pleased with her continued progress. I took her to my friend, Annette's farm yesterday and she did amazingly well. She wasn't spooked by the animals and they weren't bothered by her. I guess she is a true herding dog. Annette has a horse, goats, llamas and chickens. It is a wild little barn, but very much fun. Her daughter was dying to walk Piper on the leash, so I enclosed a photo. Piper was such a nice little dog and walked so nicely for her. Piper has the patience of a saint when it comes to children. Annette was shocked at how calm Piper was. Not the first time I have heard that comment. Must be a lot of wild and hyper shelties out there. I told her that it is the breeder that makes the difference. I didn't get the sense that yours were wild or high strung. I get that comment a lot and I tell them that the breeder and the breeding makes a difference. It takes real talent and commitment to breed well. Congrats to you for such a wonderful job. It is nice to have people compliment my dog so often. Piper is such a positive example of the breed.  I also enclosed an updated photo of Piper at the Park of Roses. An amazing garden right down the street from us. Hundreds of roses there, it is almost overwhelming. If you are ever in Columbus during the summer, it is worth the stop. Especially since you are also such talented gardeners. Judging from Emily's photos, of course.  Holly and I were treated with the upmost respect when we got our puppies from you. It was as if we were well known in shelties and could put the entire alphabet of titles behind our dogs. Truth is, we are novices and you are conformation people. And yet, no games were played. And we have continued support and encouragement from your whole family. This is the model of how you adopt a pure breed dog.  I couldn't be more honored to have one of your dogs and I love working with her. She is a gem and the perfect dog for a novice trainer. Truman is coming along on his own as well. I think Holly is going to take classes with us too. I'll keep you posted on her progress. Hope you are enjoying the summer. Can't believe it is half over. It is going by so quickly. I look forward to hearing about Spider's puppies and Doreen's upcoming shows.  Good luck with both!  Thanks again.  Christy and Piper.


Just a quick update on our "Lucky". He has grown so much! Still as cute as ever and so very intelligent. He has bonded completely with Michael. In fact, I was walking him around the soccer fields two weeks ago and from across a couple of fields, Lucky spied Michael and became rooted to the spot, watching him. Keep in mind there were 4 other games going on with little kids running everywhere that were closer to where Lucky and I stood! He loves being outside - a great match for our lifestyle! I would take another in an instant. He is quite nearly house trained - no accidents in 2 weeks! At night, he sleeps in his crate for 6-8 hours before calling to us. This puppy stage has been a breeze. Thank you so much for this wonderful gift we will treasure forever! We will send pics soon. Thank You,
Colleen   PS We would rather enjoy a Heartfelt picnic. Keep us informed!




Dylan and Murphy are doing great. I could not have asked for better puppies. You did such an awesome job with them. They are keeping us entertained and wearing themselves out playing in the back yard. They watch Dino lift his leg and they have to be just as big and they left their legs. To cute for words. They have already learned how to go out the door and come back inside with the other dogs. They use one of those steps for little dogs to get up on the the blanket chest and then the bed. I only had to show them one time and now they're up and down whenever they want. They sleep for 6 hours at night before they whine to go out. Yes, they are already whining to go out and potty.  I have never had a puppy do so well this early. I know it's because of the wonderful start they got and that is all due to you guys. We are so glad that we got both puppies. They are such a joy and we already love them dearly. I don't think they would have done as well if they had been separated. Together they challenge each other to be the best and to do everything first. Dylan just crawled up on the bed to take a nap. Murphy is still in the living room, playing with Mattie. Once he realizes Dylan isn't in there, he'll come join him for a nap. I will keep you updated on them and will send photos, which there will lots of. I do not know how to thank you for letting us bring them into our home. They make our home complete, but when it comes time to bring someone else into the family, you can rest assure that it will be one of your puppies.



They sound so cute. It's nice now to be able to put a face to the puppies and your family. I can picture them in my mind when you talk about them. Murphy will be loved and cherished, not to mention spoiled. As a reward for the dogs good behavior Tuesday, I fixed them bacon and eggs for supper. I have two rules; 1-no stealing food out of each other bowls and 2-must share everything else and get along with each other.  Doreen, we think that you are amazing with everything you have going on in your life. I have to say that my daughter will be 26 in April and she is just now growing up. She hasn't been anywhere near as responsible as you are. I think that you are setting such a good example for your son. I am just sorry that we didn't get to meet him. Donna, I want you to know that you have done a wonderful job with your children. As a mother myself, I know how hard of a job it is. It was such a joy to meet your family and see how well adjusted the furry kids were. There is a lot of love in your home and it shows in everything you do.  Pati




Merry Christmas to you all! I'm so sorry! I have been terrible at keeping in touch. Please forgive me!!!  Carly is doing super! She is so sweet and so smart! She gets along great with the other pets. The greyhounds just love her! I have been taking her to puppy classes almost as long as I have had her. She loves it and what fun we have! We are a great team and have a strong bond! I have been doing agility, too. We have done three agility puppy courses and we even go to Medina Swarm's indoor facility in Wadsworth, weekly. Hope all is well with you all!   I have includes a few pictures of Carly. (sorry, they are not the greatest pictures). She has such a beautiful coat for a 7 month old puppy. I'm still working on her ears and try to keep them glued.  I will send more pictures soon! Happy Holidays!!!! May you have a big winning year in the show ring this 2008!! Kim & Carly 



Hi Donna and Doreen, What a surprise to see our picture on your 'Tribute Page' - we feel so honored!! Thank you very much! I sometimes pass time by looking at other sheltie sites and I can honestly say NONE compares to yours. I guess that is why when we found Heartfelt Shelties we knew we found the home where our puppy would come from (and yes, we did our homework). Your warmth, honesty and love of the breed is so very evident. We know our Barbara Jean started life out well, and you can be assured she is totally loved by us. I keep forgetting to tell you this - it's one of the funniest things we've ever seen. Often times when BJ finishes getting a drink, she puts her whole muzzle in the bowl and stirs the water blowing bubbles out her nose. Depending on how much water is in the bowl, she can be wet all the way up to her eyes. Now that she knows how funny we think it is, she looks up to see if we're watching. It's a hoot!!  I'm almost completely over my cold - I can finally sleep again. I hope Gabriel is feeling better.  Speaking of sleep....goodnight!  Marie 



Donna & Doreen - I am sorry it has been so long since I have e-mailed with an update. Jake is doing fabulous and he and Katie remain inseparable! We have had him just over a year now and we wonder how we ever managed without him. He is truly the most loving dog I have ever known. Thank you both so much for all of your help initially and getting us going when we were new at the whole thing. I will attach a couple of pictures. The first one I call "waiting for Santa" - how cute is he?? The second is Katie and Jake in their matching pajamas. Yes it's true. Jake will wear his PJ's around the house without a problem, they are so funny! Thanks again so much for all you do - Sue, Irwin, & Katie 



Thanks Donna! I appreciate all your help with this. We keep meaning to send you an updated photo of Toby. He is turning into one handsome fellow. In fact he goes on a 2 mile walk every night (and he does not allow you to forget about it) and people continually come up and tell us what a beautiful dog we have. And of course he eats it up and takes on his 'show-ring' posture and prance. Our family has fallen under his spell as well. we are leaving for the weekend in about 30 minutes and my mom would not allow us to kennel him during the trip even though it means she will have to commute between our house and hers several times a day, early morning & late at night. Our older sheltie has also benefited from his little brother. He has gone on a diet, lost weight, become more active and social (after all these years). Of course he can't walk anywhere near as far as Toby or as quickly. Wow the energy in that little body! . They make one striking pair! Thanks again for being such great people and breeders and for putting all the care and attention that you do into your dogs. Eve 



Hi! I just wanted to let you know that we are enjoying and loving Tippi very much! She is growing and learning very fast. We have been training her to use an Invisible Fence in the yard, working with a dog trainer from North Olmstead. Today he said that Tippi is in the "top 5% of dogs" (that he has worked with) in her intelligence and learning abilities. He said her fast learning and ability to figure things out "made his day." He said, "I really, really like this little dog." Since he works with hundreds of dogs, I took that as a real compliment. He said he would love to come back and do private training lessons with her (as opposed to me taking her to group puppy classes). Not sure what I will do about that, but it was a nice offer. He also said that it was obvious that she had had a good start as a puppy. As her breeder, I thought you might be interested in knowing what he said about one of your pups. You've got smart dogs. And charming, too. The only other note on dog development is that the vet says he thinks she will only grow to be a bit under 20 pounds. That's fine...makes no difference to me. But I think she will remain cute and relatively small, as well as smart.  Susan



Just writing to give you a Piper update. She is doing very well and having a major growth spurt. She weighed 10 lbs at the vet last week. We have begun her obedience lessons and she is a treat to train. She is bold and independent enough to make it a challenge, but nothing like Quincy ever was. My friend and trainer, Wendy, is very impressed. She has to keep reminding herself that Piper is only 4 months. Piper loves the training and despite her age, I think I could work with her all day long and she would be thrilled. A true working dog. Wendy thinks she could be ready for novice obedience competition by fall. She is reserved about entering her so young and having it stress her. She told me to push for that, but she will evaluate her closer to the time to make sure she is ready and will enjoy it. She said putting them in young can stress them and then it is not fun for the dog. And the whole point is that the dog enjoys herself. So we'll see. Her social skills are amazing and I can take her anywhere. She is very calm and easy to walk on a leash. She loves children and it is so much fun to introduce her to them. People just love the look of her. I am so proud to say where she came from and tell people to look at your website. Which continues to be amazing. I tell people that you all are just as nice as you sound on the website. You can't say that about all breeders and some websites are just window dressing. But you guys are the real deal and your dogs are amazing! Thank you for that!  Hope the shows are going well for you and your dogs. I went to the AKC one this weekend here in Columbus and it was interesting to watch the shelties show in conformation. There were so many of them entered. I thought they were done but they had only finished the males. Wow, is it always like that for shelties? Most of the shelties breeders were friendly, so that was nice. Piper and I will be attending your picnic this summer and we can't wait. My mother will be coming also. Probably my sister too. Will give you a firm count by weekend after we all chat. Good luck with the shows! Christy and Piper


 
Hi Donna and Doreen, Happy Easter, hope all are well. Well, Star and Sammi have become great friends and we are hoping Debbie and her family will stop by for play visits. Their daughter and Hanna are the same age. Thank you again for referring them to us! Your confidence in us means a lot! Sammi was spayed last week. She is doing great!! The vet's staff didn't want to give her back. They absolutely adore her. She has so much personality and spunk. When she and Hanna work on their obedience Sammi just shines. I love to see Hanna work with her, and watch them walk together. Sammi just falls in and prances along. They are a great pair!!! I'll try to attach pictures. Thanks. Looking forward to the picnic!! Fondly, Chris 



Dear Donna and Doreen Just wanted to let you know that this thanksgiving would have been so empty without your wonderful gifts to me. :)  "Haley Ann" and The Incomparable, incredible "Handsome Harley Biggs" have filled my heart and home with so much love and laughter! (and for Haley, lots of time outs LOL.) They are perfectly wonderful together till I try and love on one. Then it is fight to the death for Moms Attention.   
My (our) little man is my doll baby and just as loving and precious as can be! Except when it comes to taking any crap from his big sister. But he seems to be my constant shadow.  Thank you all... for loving him enough to let him go. Have a wonderful Christmas and I'll get pictures to you soon. Happy Pupadays! Sheri (Harley sends a big smoochy kiss to Alex!) 



Anyway, she is doing great and we all love her. She doesn't cry at all when she has quiet time in her crate. She is very calm and explores everything. I sent some pictures. Enjoy!! Thanks so much for such a wonderful girl. Hanna is so thrilled and just loves her. She takes her role of New MOM very seriously and is very attentive to Sammy's every need. They were very sweet when I checked on them this morning. Again, thank you for a healthy lovable, well cared for beautiful, well adjusted pup. Since we had never gone through a breeder before we were a little tentative. But you have made it easy, with answering all our questions, and even giving Hanna consideration. I can't say enough good things about all of you! Thanks!!!!!!!! Fondly Chris and Hanna 






To those of you who happen upon this wonderful award-winning website dedicated to the Shetland Sheepdog breed, I would like to welcome you. You probably think it's a bit odd, a perfect stranger welcoming you to a website, of all things. However, I'd like to let you in on a little secret. Heartfelt Shelties is not just a website, nor is it simply a breeder. Those terms are just too simple to properly explain what Heartfelt Shelties is. Heartfelt Shelties is a family. Once you become a member, there is just no letting go. You will find yourself welcomed into the family with open arms and heart-warming smiles every time you decide to return. I want to share a little story on how I was fortunate enough to become a member of this special clan. In December of 2004, I lost my Irish Setter. He was old and somewhat scarred, from what, I have no clue as my husband and I adopted him from the Humane Society four years earlier. But we had four wonderful years with him, and he had a very large presence in my life. When he passed away, I was devastated. My husband knew that at that time, despite me wanting to run out and get another dog, that it just wasn't the time. The crazy man actually put his foot down and told me 'no.' Now that was a first for me, so I decided to wait him out. When that didn't work, I set to wearing him down. A constant stream of.."Remember when Noble (our Irish Setter) did..." and”I really wish I had a dog here at night..." finally allowed him to see the light. When he asked me what kind of dog I had in mind, I said I wanted, with all my heart, a Sheltie. He looked at me and I could see the question mark floating over his head. With that, I knew it was time to educate the man. I handed him a stack of information I'd printed out from the Internet (wonderful place, this) and handed him books upon books upon books of pages of information on this wonderful breed. I really don't know if he read it all, but I felt better knowing that *I* had done the proper research. He returned to me a week later and said that if I REALLY wanted a dog, I'd have to do more. I told him that I did not want *A* dog...I wanted a SHELTIE. There is a huge difference. Trust me; a Sheltie will let you know it. I went to 27 'breeders' which taught me more than books could. Not a single one of them 'clicked' with me and I just couldn't see myself adopting a puppy from any of them, despite the cuteness of the dogs and puppies. I was finally wearing myself out to the point where I just couldn't go visit another breeder, when my husband, of all people, emailed me a link to four breeders. I responded with..."Are you kidding me? I've been searching for the PERFECT breeder for about a year and you just happen upon n four breeders over the Internet and think that that's the way it's going to go?!" Blast the man, that's the way it went. (No, I'll never live that one down.) I contacted each of those sites and had brief discussions with three of them. There was nothing there for me. No spark, no bolt of lightening, nothing. However, one of these breeders contacted me back immediately, and not just with words or letters. It was with true emotion and elation that there was someone who was interested in getting a Sheltie. From them. I thought I'd reached heaven and that the dogs and puppies on their website were the manna I was destined to receive. Now I'm sure you sense the 'but' that is just hanging onto that sentence, and there is one. I was informed, albeit nicely and ever-so-gently, that while I may have approved of them, I had to pass muster myself. THIS was when I knew, not a doubt in my mind or heart, that I'd finally found the right family to get my future fur-child (their term for their puppies that just seems to fit) from. Apparently, I passed, which is good as I have severe test anxiety. After a few set-backs, I finally settled on what puppy I wanted. And I waited. And waited. And FINALLY I was able to adopt Callie from Heartfelt Shelties. During that time, I was in constant communication with them in some form or another. And I've saved each and every one of those emails and phone messages and put them in Callie's file folder. There is a history here with Heartfelt Shelties now, for this family. One that will be established more firmly with each year, month and day that goes by. When I adopted Callie from Donna and Doreen and the rest of that big, wonderful family, I received not only a warm, furry, insatiably curious and perpetually AWAKE puppy...I got the whole rest of the pack. I adopted a family. Callie's original family will always be Heartfelt Shelties, thus they will always be mine. For that, I cannot express my gratitude and joy well enough.  After the first Annual Heartfelt Shelties Picnic, held this year, I have proof that Heartfelt Shelties was the absolute RIGHT place for me to get my dog-ter from. There was love, loyalty, fondness, affection and dedication lavished upon these dogs. And it all stems from where they originated from, which would be Heartfelt Shelties. None of these dogs would have turned out so well, if they hadn't been brought into the world by some who truly cares and loves them. None of them would have gone to such loving homes, had not this original pack of Sheltie-lovers screened us all down. There isn't a doubt in my mind or Eric's or in Callie's wild little heart, that we belong to a much larger family now. We made new friends that day at the picnic. We stuffed ourselves and our dogs full of food, played with so many sunbeams of light, laughed and yes, even cried a bit every now and then at that picnic that bonded all of us together in a much tighter relationship. The three of us walked into that group already gathered in the park, and there was never, not one single second where we felt uncomfortable or awkward. We never felt we didn't belong. It was like we'd come home after six months of being apart. In conclusion, the only thing left to say is like that old Kick's Cereal commerical..Try them. You'll like them. We hope, all of us here in this big, loving family, that you will want to become a member too. We hope that you find, with us, all that you ever wanted in your puppy and family, because trust me, this is a buy-one-get-a-LOT free deal. And who doesn't love a deal?  All my love and respect, Lisa 



We have had the best experience at Heartfelt Shelties...They have helped us with anything and everything that we have needed. When we first went to Heartfelt Shelties the dogs there were like their own family. It was great to know that the Shelties are not always kept in Kennels and they are allowed to be inside the house. When we got our first Sheltie from Donna and Doreen we knew that there would not be another Sheltie breeder that we could get a Sheltie from..... Anytime we had a question we would e-mail them and they would get right back to us with an answer and were able to help us out with anything. After a year of having Vaya we decided a new addition would be so great... Then we e-mailed Donna and Doreen and they sent us the pictures of the newest litter and we went and decided on Hallie and again they were so helpful and so nice and they make you feel welcome and when you need to know something they always have the greatest ways of explaining things out to you.. We have had the most greatest experience with Heart felt Shelties and they are the only breeders that we will get a Shetland Sheepdog from. -Meagan and Michelle and our furry friends 



From our very first contact with Heartfelt Shelties we were impressed with our experience. It was clear that the shelties were being bred and raised in a loving environment and that Donna and Doreen were very concerned that their puppies would be sent to caring homes. We were impressed as well that the puppies were being bred for temperament. Our Sasha is a wonderful dog, easily trained and loving as well as cute. We couldn't want a better pet who has added to our lives daily. Jane and Bob 








Hello, My name is Debbie, I started looking for a sheltie in January of this year. After the loss of our Abby, a sable sheltie in August, we were in desperate need for another little sheltie. I started on my journey to find a little sheltie puppy. I sent out so many emails, looking into different forms of newspapers, magazines, veterinarian office notices just to find a sheltie. My husband and myself had a tri-color sheltie, she died at the age of fifteen. Our little sable was thirteen when she died. I kept saying there was no way I ever wanted another sheltie or any kind of puppy. Well, after several months and a new granddaughter we decided to get another sheltie pup. We didn't want a tri or a sable, so we decided on a little blue-merle puppy, we didn't want to replace our loss with another look-a-like, just a new chapter and make some new memories with a little blue-merle puppy and our grandbaby. I looked up different breeders on the Internet, I didn't want a puppy from just any person, we were looking for a breeder that did not mind to answer questions that I had, and a person or persons who would be as caring as I was. So, in January I came upon Heartfelt Shelties. They emailed me within a few minutes and from that time on we have been family. I read their website, almost memorizing it, and they felt the same way for the little darlings as I did. We were on the road to a great relationship.
When we had our other shelties we never wanted to breed them, I knew I couldn't sell them, so the spaying contract was no problem As for the immunizations, well, any good pet owner would or should have that taken care of also. The other items mentioned, that was no problem either. So, we were put on the waiting list. Talk about a long few weeks. I thought our little Mollee would never get here. Donna and Doreen kept my husband and myself up-to-date on the progress. I had so many questions and they answered our emails within a few minutes. When the puppies did finally come, we received pictures within four hours after birth. Our little Mollee was here and were were so excited. We received weekly pup-dates, pictures, and just knowing she was in great hands meant everything to my husband and myself. After two weeks we were able to visit, our little Mollee was placed in our hands and we played with her for a couple of hours, she had just opened her eyes. Although she slept about all of the time, we bonded immediately. Heartfelt Shelties had other shelties around the puppies and they were a very important part of the socialization into the puppies life. We were told that Donna and Doreen slept in shifts at night, I know that to be right, many of my emails were anywhere from 1:00 in the morning to sometimes 3:00, they were devoted to these little angels. The puppies were introduced to all kinds of textures, sounds, leash, and the puppies were called their name right off. The day finally came and we were able to pick Mollee up, she had been given her six-week shots and had her second worming, we were able to start our four hour journey home. Donna and Doreen gave Mollee a little care package to bring to her new home, in this little package was a blanket that had all of her brother and sisters smells. Mollee was a little trooper, she was no problem, we expected to be kept up all night, Mollee slept straight through the night. Today, Mollee is nine-weeks old. Mollee is 99% housebroken, she chews, plays hard, kisses me all the time and she loves to cuddle, she herds me, already has an opinion about everything, but mostly, Mollee would not be the little puppy she is today without the great start in life she got with Donna and Doreen. Oh, by the way, we put our name on the list for another blue merle puppy in about a year. So, as you can see, we are very pleased.....God Bless..... Thanks Donna and Doreen. Mollee is continually amazing us in everything she does. She is such a joy..... Debbie and Charlie 



"Heartfelt Shelties" Their name says it all. I found Donna, Doreen, and the rest of the family extremely passionate about their dogs. The wonderful care they provide was obvious from the moment we stepped in the door. All of the Shelties are treated as members of the family and the puppies are sure to be loved and cared for until it comes time for them to move on to their new home. This was very important to us and the care that "Heartfelt" gave our RILY-Ray before we took him home made the transition from their home to ours very easy. Our RILY-Ray has proven to be a real treat. He is very loving, smart, and has grown into a beautiful dog. He was house trained in less than 2 months. We had never tried crate training and RILY-Ray had no problem getting used to that. I believe that the ease we had in training our Sheltie is testament to the intelligence of the breeding line of "Heartfelt Shelties". They are truly quality breeders with quality dogs. I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone. I have been a Sheltie person for over 30 years and have met good ones and not-so-good ones. These dogs are great. Sincerely, Wally 



Dear Sheltie Lover:  I "discovered" Heartfelt Shelties ("HS") by accident--I was looking for some "canine entertainment" for my recently-widowed mother-in-law who lives in the same town as HS. I inquired if I could bring Mom for a visit to see their dogs/puppies just to take her mind off her recent loss, and we were welcomed with open arms (and paws)! To say the dogs at HS are truly loved and cared for is an understatement! Each dog's individual personality is recognized and they are treated as individuals; the dogs have the run of the house and are well-behaved around "strangers"; and, the dogs are well fed, clean, and have learned the art of "cookie please"! If dogs could giggle, the Shelties at HS would be on a 24-hour giggle schedule! When it's time for my husband and me to get another dog (hopefully not for a long time, as you might guess), we'll definitely check at HS first! We'd be proud to own an HS dog and would be confident that we'd be "getting what we paid for" so-to-speak. I believe HS to be reliable, honest "hobby breeders" of gorgeous Shetland Sheepdogs.     Cherie