If you are looking for a great
companion that is the equal of any dog in
intelligence, the Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) may be
the perfect pet for you. Long known as an excellent
herding dog, the Sheltie will also be a great
friend, loyal and loving. This breed has become
quite popular in recent years for two reasons – it
is beautiful and very gentle. Many Shetland Sheepdog
owners report being amazed at the almost human-like
intelligence of the breed. With proper training, the
Sheltie makes a delightful pet.
A Shetland Sheepdog is similar in appearance to the
rough Collie, though smaller size. As with many
intelligent breeds, the Sheltie must be given plenty
of socialization as a puppy so that the dog becomes
comfortable around family members, especially
children. Shetland Sheepdogs that are given basic
obedience training and are treated with loving care
overcome natural shyness and suspicion of strangers.
In the right home, the Sheltie is both a great pet
and a fine watchdog.
Temperament
This hardy and energetic breed originated in
northern Scotland, working as a farm dog and herding
dog. The breed is very trainable and willing to
obey, especially with the right early socialization.
Some owners have found their Shetland Sheepdog to be
suspicious of strangers, though with some basic
training this trait can be focused so that the
Sheltie becomes a good watchdog. The Sheltie is
generally a very gentle and loving pet and can be
quite good with children as it spends more time with
them.
Found by many owners to be intensely loyal, the
Shetland Sheepdog will be protective of family
members. In fact, this breed is usually at its best
with constant companionship from those it loves. The
American Kennel Club considers shyness and timidity
to be serious faults in the Sheltie. However, a
Shetland Sheepdog should also not snap at strangers
or bark excessively.
Size and Color
The Shetland Sheepdog or Sheltie is usually found in
three color combinations – sable, which can range
from gold to a mahogany tone; tri-color, which is
black, white and tan; or blue merle, which has the
color pattern of the tri-color with grey in the mix.
Some other variations are found in the Sheltie but
most are considered unacceptable in the show ring.
The height of the Shetland Sheepdog at the withers
ranges from 13 inches to 16 inches. Weight can vary
widely, with the average Sheltie weighing 15-20
pounds. Some dogs however can weigh several pounds
more. Undersize and oversize Shelties can appear in
the same litter. Some clubs and organizations
recommend not using these dogs for breeding.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
A Shetland Sheepdog may tend to overeat if the food
is provided and the breed can become overweight
without proper exercise. Some owners report that
their Shelties have a sensitive stomach, so it is
probably best not to feed table scraps and spicy
foods. With a diet of fresh foods and a schedule of
regular exercise, the Sheltie is a generally healthy
breed. If commercial food were given on a daily
basis, it would be best to use only high-quality
brands.
Regular brushing is necessary with the Sheltie coat.
Many professional grooms recommend giving the coat a
light misting of water to help take out the mats
that often occur. Shetland Sheepdogs have a
two-layer coat. The dense undercoat sheds twice each
year. Since the breed is known to be concerned about
its cleanliness, baths should be given only when
necessary. Dry shampoo baths are recommended.
Exercise Needs
The Sheltie is a working dog, long used for herding
sheep and cattle on the open country of northern
Scotland. This breed is active and energetic,
needing plenty of exercise. The Shetland Sheepdog
will enjoy games and play that involves family
members, though the owner should be careful not to
allow the Sheltie to run completely free. The dog’s
breeding may lead it to chase other animals and this
could lead to problems with street traffic.
Daily walks and active play will keep the Sheltie
happy. Most Shetland Sheepdogs kept as pets will mix
with groups outside quite well, though the dog may
show some natural instincts in circling and barking
as it attempts to “herd” groups of people. Shelties
will move with speed and a smooth gait when running.
