Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog Facts

Shetland Sheepdog Information

Shetland Sheepdog Description:

Shetland Sheepdog Care & Grooming:

Shetland Sheepdog Health Problems:

Group:	Herding
Size:	Medium
Life Span:	12-15 years
Height:	Male: 13-16 inches
	Female: 13-16 inches
Weight:	Male: 15-25 lbs
	Female: 15-25 lbs

Coat :	Outercoat is straight and harsh. Undercoat is short, dense and furry.
Gait :	Free and effortless
Color(s) :	Black, sable or blue merle; with white or tan markings
Living Area :	Any
Hair Length:	Long
Exercise Need :	Daily long walk and jog
Recognized By :	(CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (UKC) United Kennel Club (KCGB) Kennel Club of Great Britain (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (ANKC) Australian National Kennel Council (NKC) National Kennel Club (NZKC) New Zealand Kennel Club (APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	18th Century
Place of Origin :	Scotland
Todays Use :	Companion Dog
Originally Used :	Farm Dog
Other Name :	Sheltie

The origin of the Shetland Sheepdog lies in Shetland, Scotland. However, the exact origin of the breed is unknown. Historical evidence suggests that the original breed was a Spitz type breed which was then crossbred with collie breeds of the island. In the early part of the 20th century, this mixed breed of collie and Spitz was taken to England, where it was further reduced in size by crossing it with Rough Collie and other breeds such as Pomeranian, King Charles Spaniel and Border Collie. Originally, the breed was called Shetland Collie. However, after the protest by Rough Collie breeders, it was eventually named the Shetland Sheepdog. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1911.

The Sheltie is a small to medium sized dog with a sturdy frame and long hair. It has a wedge shaped head; small sized ears which are set high and carried erect; medium sized eyes which are almond shaped and dark in color; a black nose; a longish muzzle which is rounded towards the end; taut lips with teeth which meet in scissors bite. This breed has a long, hairy tale. The tail is set low and is carried downwards, with a slight upward curl in some cases. The tail is never carried above the level of the back. It has short, stout legs with oval shaped feet. It has a double coat with a long and straight outercoat which is harsh in texture and, a short, dense and furry undercoat. The color of the coat can be black, sable or blue merle; with white or tan markings.

The Shetland Sheepdog is a loyal, affectionate breed. It does okay with kids as well as other dogs and pets if socialized at an early age. However, it does not tolerate too much rough handling and thus, children should be accordingly advised. It is a loving breed and makes for an excellent companion breed. It is easy to train and obedient. However, it is a sensitive breed and may not take too well with a harsh tone of voice. A calm and consistent approach is needed when training this dog. It is slightly reserved with strangers and hence, makes for a good guard dog as well as a watchdog. Because of the breed’s herding instincts, it has a tendency to chase things in sight, especially cars, and hence, must be taught not to do so. If given proper amount of exercise, it does well in an apartment life.

The Sheltie is an average shedder and sheds heavily during spring and fall. The long coat of the dog needs to be brushed almost daily to avoid matting and to maintain a healthy looking coat. It should be bathed only when absolutely necessary and must be dried properly after each bath. Its ears and eyes should be cleaned properly to avoid any infection. The hair around its eyes, ears and paws need to be trimmed regularly.

It is an active breed which needs lot of daily exercise. Daily walks are essential for emotional and physical needs of the dog and these should be supplemented with jogging or running in an open but secure fenced area. It tends to gain weight easily so overfeeding should be avoided. It is sensitive to very high temperature so should be adequately protected.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The Shetland Sheepdog is prone to some health issues like Cancer, Epilepsy, hip Dysplasia, Skin allergies, Obesity etc.

PHOTO GALLERY

View More Pictures

RELATED HERDING BREEDS

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Pyrenean Shepherd

Australian Shepherd

Puli

Old English Sheepdog

Australian Cattle Dog

Swedish Vallhund

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Bearded Collie

Beauceron

Bouvier Des Flandres

Briard

FEATURED DOG BREED

Gordon Setter

Group:	Sporting
Size:	Large
Life Span:	10-12 years
Height:	Male: 24-27 inches Female: 23-26 inches
Weight:	Male:55-80 lbs Female: 45-70 lbs
Color:	Black and tan
Description:	The origin of the the Gordon Setter lies in Scotland. This breed dates back to the 17th cen.....