Shetland Sheepdog Breed Info

Energy ***
Trainng *****
Watchdog *****
Grooming ****

Shetland Sheepdog is originated from Scotland and also known as sheltie
Size: max: 16 inches (H) and 25 pounds (W)
Color: blue merle, sable, sable merle, black, or mostly white with or without tan or white markings
Coat: double coat with a dense undercoat and a long, straight outer coat
Personality: hardworking, intelligent, affectionate with its family, trainable
Care: grooming, exercise, activity, socialization, training
Known health problem: eye problems, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, sheltie skin syndrome, thyroid problems
Group: herding dogs

Good with children? yes
Good with other pets? tend to chase small animals


The Shetland Sheepdog came from the Shetland Islands in Scotland. The breed was originally developed as herding dogs. It is believed to be a descendant of Collie breed.

The year 1909 marked the initial recognition of the Sheltie by the English Kennel Club, and the American Kennel Club registered the first Sheltie in 1911.

Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent, hardworking, family oriented dogs. They are intensely loyal and they make outstanding companion. They tend to be wary with strangers and prone to barking, a desired quality for a good watchdog.

Sheltie dogs get along well with children, but they can get injured easily when playing due to their small size, therefore supervision is necessary.

Shetland Sheepdogs love to run in wide-open areas. The herding instinct is strong so they love to chase and herd things, including squirrels and ducks.

Shelties are very active and love to play. Neglecting their need for exercise and intellectual stimulation can result in undesirable behaviors, including excessive barking and nervousness.

This breed excels in dog agility competitions, and also at competitive obedience, flyball, tracking, and herding, or other dog sports.

They do best with an active, experienced family in the city, suburban or rural homes, as long as they get plenty of daily exercise.

Taking Care of Your Sheltie Dog

Shetland Sheepdog needs to be brushed once or twice a week. Although its coat might appear to be a time-consuming task, a once-weekly, but thorough, brushing is all it needs. More frequent groomings and trimmings will contribute to a beautiful and tidy coat.

Sheltie dogs 'blow' their coat twice a year, often at spring and fall season. They need more grooming around these times. Brushing with an undercoat rake will help remove the dead and loose hair from its coat and also reduce the amount of hair that is shed.

Shetland Sheepdog Club

American Shetland Sheepdog Association
www.ASSA.org

Shetland Sheepdog Dog Breeders >>