Shetland Sheepdog

Group: Working
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Exercise: Medium
Grooming: High
Trainability: Very high
Area of Origin: Scotland (Shetland Islands)
Date of Origin: 1800’s
Other Names: Sheltie
Original Function: Sheep herder

History
The Shetland Sheepdog is probably descended from Scottish Rough Collies brought to the Scottish island of Shetland and crossed with the Icelandic Yakkin, a small island dog (now no longer recognised) brought over in the boats of fishermen. By 1700, the breed was completely developed. For centuries these little dogs were used to herd and guard the sheep flocks of the Shetlands, those rugged islands off the Scottish coast where many of the animals are rather small in stature. Refinement of the breed took place mainly in the twentieth century after the export of Shelties to mainland Scotland and beyond. These small shepherds were very gentle when herding the miniature stock. One of the top obedience competition breeds, the Sheltie is an extremely smart and willing worker. Because of his kindly disposition, the Sheltie has become one of today’s most popular companion dogs.

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.

Upkeep
The Sheltie is energetic, but its exercise needs can be met with a good walk, short jog or active game and training session. It can live outdoors in a temperate climate, but it is strongly advised that the Sheltie be a house dog. It is too attached to its family to do well separate from them. Its thick coat needs brushing or combing every other day.

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Sheltie at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

You may also be interested in:

• Collie

• Miniature American Shepherd

• Pomeranian

Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz
Images sourced from Google Images.
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