Dog Breeds > Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is a very active and energetic dog belonging to the herding dog category. Commonly known as Sheltie they possess instinctive herding skills which make them brilliant watch dogs. Moreover, a high level of agility and obedience has led them in being successful on stage as performing dogs as well as companion dogs.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

These small dogs which came into being from the18th century have the Border Collies as their ancestors. It is said that the Border Collies were brought to Scotland and bred with a now extinct, small island breed of the Shetland Island to give birth to this beautiful dog who were used in herding cattle for their great herding abilities. Presently, the Shetlie, with its high level of agility and obedient nature feature as one of the most popular performing dogs of the world. Performing various tricks and winning obedience competitions are something’s which the Sheltie is known for.

Physical Appearance

The Shetland Sheepdog in appearance is very similar to that of the Rough Coated collie breed sporting a long coat which is only a bit short at the head and legs area. Apart from that, the coat is abundant and forms a mane at the neck and chest area. They have a tapering muzzle with a slight stop, almond shaped dark eyes and small ears with the tips folded forward. The dog’s tail lies down straight or remains slightly raised and is excessively feathered. The most common coat colours for the Shetland sheepdog are black, blue merle and sable with a lot of white and tan marks and patches.

Grooming

The Shetland Sheepdog is double coated having a coarse outer coat which falls straight and a soft and tight undercoat below. Regular brushing is important but combing should be done very less. This breed sheds the undercoat heavily during fall and spring. Moreover, since they are very clean dogs, they shed dirt and dust almost all the time. Bathe and shampoo them only when needed.

Mood

The Shetland sheepdog is a very good companion dog. It has a very pleasant temperament and is loyal, calm, and affectionate. They need people around them to be happy but start barking a lot if strangers try to touch them. Remember that this breed is sensitive to the tone of your voice and talking in a harsh tone or saying what you don’t actually mean may result in adverse behaviour from them. Overall they are very intelligent, lively and willing to please their masters and are known to be one of the best companion dogs ever.

With Children

Since they are a herding breed, protective instinct, alertness and good observation are natural gifts. All these coupled with the intense loyalty and affection that they have for their family leads them to be great with children. Remember to socialize the dog well from puppy hood so that it does not develop any behavioral issues.

Training & Exercise

In training a Shetland Sheepdog show that you are the pack leader by consistent and firm leadership. Otherwise, if the opposite happens and your dog thinks that he is the pack leader then he will go on barking to keep the humans in line! Be sure to start socializing since puppy hood to avoid future behaviour issues. Moreover, since the Shetlie is highly intelligent and active, it needs something to occupy its mind at all times. Apart from these, the Shetlie is a very smart and trainable dog which will give you a delightful and rewarding experience.
Exercising a Shetlie is important since it is a highly active dog. Taking it for daily long walks and letting it run free should be enough to keep it healthy and happy.

Health & Life Expectancy

The Shetland Sheepdog is prone to malformations that are inherited and are found in Rough Collie breed. Other health concerns are eye diseases, hypothyroidism, knee cap displacement, etc. Remember not to overfeed the Shetland Sheepdog as they have a tendency to turn obese.

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