Oooh, goody, a doggie's gonna get a good home! Okay, I would contact a Shepherd rescue in your area. They will know each dog's temperment, and whether they are good with people, kids, cats, whatever.

My very first dog - the best smartest dog in the whole wide world - was a female German Shepherd maybe mix. Not that I'm partial but I'd get a girl! Don't think that makes as much difference as the temperment, though.

Let the dogs meet on neutral territory - maybe bring your Sheltie to wherever your future dog is to have a "meeting of the minds" there before bringing the new dog home.

Be sure to let the Sheltie know you still love him.

There are so many Shepherds and Shepherd mixes needing homes, I know you'll find one!

(Now I'm gonna PM Sudilar, a Shep-mom, and ask her over to this thread.)