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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties are a strong and beautiful dog with a long and full coat. Some say they
are a perfect miniature copy of a Collie. They have a long, wedge-shaped head. The
hair on the face and feet is smooth. The head is surrounded with a lion-like mane.
Colors in this breed include blue merle, sable and black. The outer coat is lined
with a dense undercoat that has various amounts of white or tan. The legs are straight
and are feathered. The tail is also feathered and reaches the hock. The nose should
be black and the teeth should meet in a scissor-like bite. The ears are small, expressive
and have dropping tips. The dog should have a watchful and intelligent expression.
This breed is a good jumper. The Sheltie standard is precise in height and marking
requirements.
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Temperament
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The Shetland Sheepdog is a great companion dog with a wonderful temperament. They
are gentle loyal, lively, intelligent and very trainable and are known as one of
the smartest breeds. Willing to please, they are loyal and loving with their family,
but may be suspicious with strangers. This breed does not like to be touched by
strangers. This vocal breed makes a good watchdog. They love to chase and often
decide to chase cars, which can be disastrous. This breed needs lots of companionship
and to be kept busy.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 13-16" ; Weight: 14-27 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to diseases of the eye. Have the eyes checked by an ophthalmologist
while they are still puppies. They are also prone to hypothyroidism and patella.
Only purchase from reputable breeders.
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Living Conditions
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Shelties will do great living in an apartment and do fine without a yard as long
as they are sufficiently exercised.
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Exercise
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This active, graceful breed needs lots of exercise. Make sure that they are in a
safe area if they are off their lead.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-15 years
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Grooming
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This breed needs regular brushing. Mist with water before brushing and ease out
any matting before they get unmanageable. Use a comb sparingly. The coat sheds dirt
and mud, so only bathe when necessary. They are seasonal heavy shedders
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Origin
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During the 1700s, fishing boats arrived regularly on the Shetland Island and along
with the sailors came black and tan King Charles Spaniels, "Yakki" dogs from Greenland
and spitz-type herding dogs from the Scandinavian countries. These breeds produced
an alert, eager, working breed of dog. The Sheltie was first registered in the US
in 1911 and has become one of today's most popular companion dogs. They are recognized
by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC and UKC Herding Dog
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