Let's talk Shetland Sheepdogs
With their abundant double-coat of thick, lustrous fur, the Shetland Sheepdog was certainly made for the wild weather of the far-flung Shetland Islands, the northernmost tip of Scotland. Though relatively small in size, these lively little dogs are also strong, hardy and intelligent. But the Shetland Sheepdog is, in fact, a real softie at heart. Renowned for forming deeply strong bonds with their human family, they are very affectionate in their behaviour. So, as long as this savvy Scottish herding dog has plenty to keep their busy brain occupied, they will make an excellent addition to any household.
Official name: Shetland Sheepdog
Other names: Sheltie
Origins: Scotland
| Drooling tendencies |  |
Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level |  |
Suited to apartment living? | |
| *Energy Level | Moderate | *Friendly pet? | |
| Compatibility with other pets | |
*Can stay alone? | |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behavior. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socializing your pet as well as covering their basic welfare needs (and their social and behavioral needs).
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
Contact your breeder or veterinarian for further advice.
translations.feature.breeds.male
37 cm
translations.feature.breeds.height
7 - 11 kg
translations.feature.breeds.weight
translations.feature.breeds.female
36 cm
translations.feature.breeds.height
7 - 11 kg
translations.feature.breeds.weight
| Baby age | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age | 2 to 10 months |
| Adult age | 10 months to 8 years |
| Mature age | 8 to 12 years |
| Senior age | From 12 years |
1/7
Get to know the Shetland Sheepdog
All you need to know about the breed
While it’s true that Shetland Sheepdogs were bred for herding sheep in the far north of Scotland, these bijou bundles of fur make a near-perfect pet too. With bags of personality, they are both sociable and playful dogs, and are very demonstrative in their affection for their human companions. They also thrive on a busy family life. As working dogs by nature, they like to be kept occupied, so the more interaction the better.
Looking rather like a smaller version of their ‘cousin’, the Rough Collie, the Shetland Sheepdog was, in fact, originally known as the Shetland Collie. However, there were concerns that it might result in confusion between the two, so their name was subsequently amended to the Shetland Sheepdog. Today, they are commonly known by their nickname of the “Sheltie”.
Fans of the Shetland Sheepdog often talk of the breed’s great beauty – thanks in part to their show-stopping coat – and they also come in a wide array of colours. With their little Lassie-like looks, and lithe, graceful stride, they are certainly a dazzler of the dog park. And then there’s that lovely temperament. All in all, the Shetland Sheepdog packs a lot of punch for a dog of their small size.
2/7
2 facts about Shetland Sheepdogs
1. Top of the class
As well as all their other great traits, the Shetland Sheepdog is a highly intelligent breed. Very quick learners, they are therefore a pleasure to train as well. It’s perhaps no surprise then that many Shetland Sheepdogs go on to become world-class competitors in canine sports such as herding, agility and obedience.
2. Small but perfectly formed
The size of the Shetland Sheepdog is no accident of nature. As food could be scarce on the Shetland Islands, their smaller size meant they required smaller portions when compared to other larger herding breeds. So, they were deliberately bred to be on the small side.
3/7
History of the breed
Although their exact origins have been lost to the mists of time, the Shetland Sheepdog is believed to be descended from a Northern spitz-type dog brought over from Scandinavia by the early inhabitants of the Shetland Islands. Over time, these dogs are thought to have been crossed with other breeds such as the King Charles Spaniel, the original Pomeranian and varieties of the Collie, eventually resulting in the Scottish Sheepdog that we know today.
What is certain is that the breed was registered in Lerwick in 1908 and, the year after, with the Scottish Shetland Sheepdog Club. They were also recognised by the English Kennel Club that same year. Originally known as the Shetland Collie, the name was changed, not long afterwards, to avoid any confusion with the Collie. They are also known, informally, as the Sheltie, the Fairy Dog, the Lilliputian Collie, the Miniature Collie, the Peerie Dog and the Toonie Dog (“toon” being a Shetland word for farm).
Over the years, the popularity of the Shetland Sheepdog has spread far beyond their native islands. Especially loved in the US, they were registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1911 – albeit the breed has since diverged there into its own distinct type. The American variety of the Shetland Sheepdog is bigger and stronger, with more prevalent white markings and slightly different facial features.
4/7
From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Shetland Sheepdogs
1. Coat
Long lustrous double-coat in different variations of either sable, tan, black, white or blue merle.
2. Head
Head shaped in a blunt wedge with smallish ears and dark eyes.
3. Body
Length of the body slightly exceeds the height at the withers.
5/7
Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Shetland Sheepdog
6/7
Caring for your Shetland Sheepdog
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Famed for their impressive coat, which includes a long, lustrous layer on the top and a short, dense undercoat, the Shetland Sheepdog does take a bit of maintenance grooming-wise. Given the volume of their fur, they will need a good brush at least once a week, but more often if they have been tearing through the undergrowth or splashing through the mud. An occasional bath is a good idea too. The Shetland Sheepdog also sheds quite profusely, so they will need additional attention then. Plus, teeth should be brushed every day ideally, claws clipped as needed and ears checked regularly. A fairly athletic, agile breed, the Shetland Sheepdog requires a good amount of exercise every day too – but, also, mental stimulation is just as important for them. This is a dog that likes having a job to do. Certainly, the Shetland Sheepdog excels at training, and they thrive on canine sports such as obedience, agility and herding. Some go on to become therapy dogs too. As with all breeds, early socialisation and puppy-training classes will give your Shetland Sheepdog the best possible start.
7/7
All about Shetland Sheepdogs
While they may look very similar, the Shetland Sheepdog and the Rough Collie are quite distinct breeds. The most obvious difference is their size, with the Shetland Sheepdog being significantly smaller, but they differ in their facial features too. The Shetland Sheepdog can also be a little more reserved around strangers.
Though Shetland Sheepdogs tend to be very well-behaved overall, it’s true that they can be a bit barky at times. This is because their natural instinct is to protect their flock (and they are equally protective of their human families). For this reason, the Shetland Sheepdog will generally sound the alarm if they see someone coming. On the plus side, they make excellent watchdogs.
translations.feature.breeds.otherbreeds
Read more on this topic
How your dog's nutrition needs change with age
How to adopt a dog
Things to consider before getting a dog
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/