The Shetland Sheepdog, also known as the Dwarf Scotch Shepherd, the Shetland Collie, the Toonie Dog, the Peerie, the Fairy Dog and the Sheltie, is basically a small working rough-coated collie. It was bred to control flocks of sheep and herds of cattle. It is a naturally willing, obedient and kind breed that excels in obedience and agility competitions as well as in the show ring. It is perhaps best known for its beautiful appearance and its affectionate disposition as a beloved family companion. It is reserved around strangers, but not aggressively so.
The mature Sheltie should stand between 13 and 16 inches at the shoulder and typically weighs between 14 and 20 pounds. The Sheltie’s coat is double, long and dense, with mane and frill being abundant, especially on males. Acceptable colors include black, blue merle and sable, marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan.
This miniature collie was developed in the Shetland Islands, which lie about 50 miles north of the mainland of Scotland. These isles have produced small or dwarf animals of many species, including the Shetland pony, dwarf Shetland cattle and the small Shetland sheep. They are rugged, rocky islands with little vegetation or other sources of sustenance. The Shetland Sheepdog’s diminutive size is natural given its development on these islands. In the 1700s, fishing boats regularly
Shetland Sheepdogs are an all-around family dog. Shelties love their families and want to be included in all activities, both outdoors and indoors. They get along well with kids, and enjoy interactive outdoor games. Shelties are highly intelligent and pick up training very quickly. They are often champions in the competitive arena in obedience, agility and herding. For active families who prefer a smaller dog, the Sheltie is an excellent fit.Shelties are small enough to
The Shetland Sheepdog looks like a miniature Collie with his beautiful, thick coat, distinctive head and agile body. The head of the Sheltie is long and wedge-shaped and muzzle is narrow and well-rounded. The nose is black and the teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The eyes are dark, almond-shaped, alert, yet gentle. Blue or merle eyes are permissible in blue merle dogs only. The ears are small, set high on the head
The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Shetland Sheepdog Pictures and Shetland Sheepdog images. Get an in depth look at the Shetland Sheepdog and see the many things that this breed has to offer.