Shetland
Sheepdog
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 Description:
This breed originates from the Shetland Islands
of Scotland; it descends from crosses between
the Border Collie of Scotland and other smaller,
intelligent breeds of the area. Further crosses
with Collies later on helped the Sheltie to obtain
its similar appearance to the Collie, yet it retained
its smaller size.
Height: The
height of a Shetland Sheepdog is 13 - 16"
(33 - 40.6cm).
Weight: Shetland
Sheepdogs weigh 14 - 16 lbs (6.2 - 7.1 kg).
Coat Type: The
coat of the Sheltie is a double one: the outer
coat is long and straight while the dense undercoat
is short and furry. The hair is longer on the
chest, tail, forelegs and hind legs, while the
fur on ears, head and feet should be short and
smooth.
Color: Colors
of the Shetland Sheepdog's coat range from black
to sable to golden or mahogany with white or tan
markings. Regular thorough brushing is required.
Temperament:
Owners of a Shetland Sheepdog can expect a very
loyal, loving and responsive dog. It is an excellent
guardian of children and is friendly, yet reserved,
with strangers. It loves to please its master
and is an excellent candidate for obedience work.
Health Problems: The
Shetland Sheepdog is generally a very healthy
breed. Although the following health issues are
not common in this breed, they have been reported:
hip dysplasia, inherited eye disease, hypothyroidism,
epilepsy and skin allergies. It is highly suggested
to only purchase a Shetland Sheepdog from a responsible
and reputable breeder. The life expectancy is
a 12 - 15 years.
Special Interest:
By instinct, the Shetland Sheepdog - Sheltie for
short - is quite aware of and adheres to its boundaries;
historically, in the rugged Shetland Islands,
these dogs often prevented herds of sheep or children
from wandering too close to dangerous sea-side
cliffs.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs
ANKC: Group 5 - Working Dogs
CKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs
FCI: Group 1 Section 1 Sheepdog
KC: Non-Sporting - Working Group
NZKC: Working
UKC: Herding Dogs
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