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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