AKC calls the Sheltie extremely intelligent, quick and obedient, a herder from the Shetland Islands with a strong family resemblance to the Collie. A smart dog notices every new thing at a kennel.
Economy
At 13 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds, a Sheltie fits Economy. Two Shelties from one home share for $52 plus $44, which helps a sensitive dog.
The big coat on a small dog
The long outer coat sits over a soft, dense undercoat. AKC rates shedding at 3 of 5. The chart cell for a Sheltie at 16 to 25 pounds is $45 in the Double Coated column, or $35 for a dog at 15 pounds or less. Mats form behind the ears, so brush the day before drop-off.
Sensitive and alert
Some Shelties react to sound. Dogs see neighbors through the fence but have their own space, and a nervous dog can retreat to the inside half. A quiet check-in at the car helps.
Energy
AKC rates it 4 of 5. A Sheltie is quick, so a game in the fenced area is fun. Herding dogs may circle or bark at other dogs; tell staff if yours does.
Brushing
Brush behind the ears, along the ruff and the britches the day before drop-off. A matted double coat is hard to dry after a bath.
Quiet check-in
Shelties pay close attention to tone. A calm hello at the car and a short note on the form about sounds your dog dislikes helps the staff.
What a stay costs
A 4-night stay in Economy is 4 x $52 on the 2026 rates. A second dog from the same home is $44, and 14 nights or more is $47 a night; active military families pay that same reduced rate (the rate sheet does not list the two as combining; call 707-678-6600 to confirm).
Seasons and records
A long coat holds heat. About 100 days a year hit 90 degrees at Vacaville (NOAA), so the air-conditioned inside half is useful. Rabies, distemper/parvo and Bordetella records must be good through the last day, and your dog should be 16 weeks or older before the first day. Canine influenza is recommended but not required.