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The Shetland Sheepdog (or Sheltie) is descended from the Scottish Rough Collies brought to the Shetland Islands (Scotland) and crossed with the Icelandic Yakkin, a small local dog breed brought over in the boats of fishermen. For centuries these little dogs were used to herd and guard the small sheep flocks of the Shetland Islands off the Scottish coast.
 Refinement of the breed took place mainly in the 20th century after the export of Shelties to Scotland. These small shepherds were very gentle when herding the miniature stock, and today it is one of the top obedience competition breeds.
Shelties make excellent watchdogs that will alert you to visitors or anything unusual. They can be easily trained to bark only when necessary.
THeir ability to run swiftly and gracefully, and jump with agility over obstacles, makes them a delight in fields and woods as well as in farm work. But the most endearing thing about Shelthies is their devoted, docile nature and their keen, almost human-like intelligence and understanding.
Shetland Sheepdog puppies
Shetland Sheepdog Breed Outline
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Other names: | Sheltie |
| Classification FCI: |
Group 1 Section 1 : Sheepdogs Section 2 : Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle dogs) |
| Utilization: |
Sheepdog, Companion Dog |
| AKC Classification: |
Herding Group |
| Size: | Medium |
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Height: | 13-16 inches |
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Colors: |
Sable, tricolor (black/white/tan), black and white, black and tan, blue merle. White markings may appear (except on black and tan) in blaze, collar and chest, frill, legs and tip of tail. |
| litter size: | 4 to 6 puppies |
| Life Span: | 9-15 years |
| Personality: | Affectionate, intelligent, quick learner, loyal, active, reserved with strangers but never aggressive.
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| Grooming Requirements: |
Shetland Sheepdogs need regular brushing to prevent matting. Occasional trimming is required too. |
| Shedding: | Heavy |
| Social skills: |
Gets along with other animals when properly socialized from puppyhood. |
| Suitability for Children: | Even though Shelties are very good with older children, they are not recommended to families with toddlers since they are so eager to nip at moving objects and are very sensitive to loud voices and sudden moves which may result in defensive biting. |
| Exercise Needs: | Medium-High. Shetland Sheepdogs require daily 60-90 minutes energetic exercise. Otherwise, they become destructive and yappy. |
| Train Ability: | Attentive and eager to learn. |
| Health Issues: | Shetland Sheepdogs have several serious health problems. The most common are PRA (blindness disorder), cataracts and epilepsy. |
Shetland Sheepdog puppies can look cute, playful and healthy. Still, you would be wise to educate yourself about the hereditary dog diseases and health problems of the Shetland Sheepdog dog and what measures and precautions your Shetland Sheepdog reputable breeder has taken to ensure that your new Shetland Sheepdog puppy will grow into a healthy and happy dog.
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