The Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog

Alternative Names: sheltie

Country of Origin: Scotland

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.

Physical 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, merle, sable, or mostly white, with or without tan or white markings.

Height: 13 to 16 inches

Weight: 20 to 25 pounds

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.

Activity Level: High

Best Owner: The sheltie does best with an active owner in a rural or suburban home.

Special Needs: Exercise, grooming, job or activity, socialization, training

Possible Health Concerns: Epilepsy, eye problems, hip dysplasia, sheltie skin syndrome, thyroid problems, von Willebrand’s disease