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Shetland Sheepdog Facts
- Group
- Herding
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 13" - 16"
- Weight
- 18-25 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 14 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
Sheltie.
Origin
The Shetland Sheepdog originated in Scotland.
Date Of Origin
This breed developed in the 1700's.
History
The Shetland sheepdog is an old breed that is descended from the dogs brought to the Shetland Islands off the Scottish coast by invading Vikings in the tenth century. These were spitz-type dogs that were similar to vallhunds. The dogs were developed as herding dogs and kept isolated until the fifteenth century, when the Shetland Islands became part of Scotland and Scottish collies were introduced to the islands. These dogs gave the sheltie a more collie-like look. The sheltie is one of many compact animals bred by Shetland islanders. It was first brought to the U.S. in the early twentieth century.
Description
The sheltie is a small to medium size, muscular, rectangular shaped dog. It looks like a miniature collie. It has a narrow, wedge-shaped head with a skull and muzzle of equal length. The nose is black and the eyes are almond shaped and brown or blue or a combination of the two. The small ears are folded when at rest and semi-erect when alert. The thick, long tail is set low and there is a double coat with a dense undercoat and a long, straight outer coat. The coat forms a mane at the neck and trousers at the thighs and may be black, blue, merel, sable, or mostly white, with or without tan or white markings.
Temperament
This is an intelligent, hardworking, trainable dog. It is affectionate with its family but wary with strangers. It is responsive and prone to barking, making it a good watchdog.
Uses
It is above all an intelligent herder, capable both of commanding large cattle and holding small sheep in check. Because of its beauty and kindness, it has become an outstanding companion dog.
Health Concerns
Epilepsy, eye problems, hip dysplasia, sheltie skin syndrome, thyroid problems, von Willebrand?s disease
Additional Information
The sheltie does best with an active owner in a rural or suburban home. As an owner, it is very important to brush this breeds coat daily to keep it from over shedding and matting up.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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