The Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog breed began as a watch dog on the Shetland Islands of Scotland. They kept watch and drove off small predators from farmers' fields and gardens. The herding role was acquired a bit later when crossing with Scottish herding dogs took place.
This breeds is noted for its intelligence, devotion, and response to its owner's wishes. It is very quick to learn new tasks and is always willing to please. Its intelligence allows it to excel in many roles from show dog, herder, watch dog, to excellent companion and family dog.
The Shetland Sheepdog is also know to many as a Miniature Collie. This really is a misnomer since the breed was originally developed without Collie blood lines. Included in its ancestry were Border Collies and smaller long haired breeds. Some believe that the King Charles Spaniel may also have been included in the Sheltie's bloodlines.
It was not until the 1920's and then again in the 1950's that Collies were added to the blood lines. Collies were introduced to enhance the standard appearance.
Shetland Sheepdogs prefer to be with their owners. The picture below is of the Sheltie I used to have. When I was doing chores in the house she followed me everywhere. If I would run to the basement or to the upstairs she faithfully followed me. If I sat to read or watch TV, she plopped down beside me and only moved when I did.
Shetland Sheepdog Video
I have uploaded a short video of Shayna at google. You can view it by following this link. Sorry about the quality, it is a little grainy, but you will see how cute she was!
While I was at it, I also uploaded a video of my neighbor's sheltie puppy. Again, it is not the best quality, but it shows a pup with lots of energy! The link is here.
The Shetland Sheepdog at a Glance:
| Origin |
The Shetland Islands off the coast of Scotland, dating back to the early 1800's. |
| Original Use |
Sheep herding |
| Use Today |
Companion, sheep herding |
| Temperament |
Bright, affectionate, extremely loyal and responsive to its owner. |
| Acceptance of: |
Other Dogs - very good |
| Other Pets - very good |
| Strangers - reserved but may warm up quickly |
| Children - very good
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| Watchdog Ability |
Excellent, will bark at strangers, disturbances, and even at a noisy passing car. |
| Guard dog Ability |
Poor |
| Ease of Training |
Excellent |
| Living Conditions |
Can live outside in temperate climates, but this is not advised. The Sheltie is so attached to its owner that it wants to be inside with him/her. Ideally suited for urban or rural living. |
| Exercise |
Required daily exercise such as a walk, short run or game of frisbee. |
| Coat |
Has a two layered coat. The outer layer consists of long straight hair. The inner layer is much softer, but dense enough to make the entire coat stand off. Even hair on the tail is profuse. It has an elegant mane and frill. The coat sheds at least once a year. |
| Grooming |
Requires brushing every other day. |
| Colors |
Black, blue merle, sable, and tan, each accompanied by varying amounts of tan or white. |
| Height and Weight |
Ideal weight is 14 to 20 pounds (6.5 to 9 kg) while the ideal height is 13 to 16 inches (33 to 40.5 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals. |
| Life Expectancy |
12 to 14 years. |
| Group |
The AKC places the Shetland Sheepdog in the herding group. |
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