Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is a small, agile herding dog breed known for its intelligence and loyalty. It is an energetic and friendly breed that easily adapts to various living environments.

Shetland Sheepdog Breed overview

Shetland Sheepdogs are a small to medium-sized dog breed that is known for their affectionate and gentle disposition. They are great family pets and do well with children and other dogs. They require daily exercise and mental stimulation, and do best in moderate temperatures. They are easy to train and make great competitors in agility and obedience events. However, they do require regular grooming to keep their double coat healthy. Positive reinforcement training and gentle handling is recommended for this sensitive breed.

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What To Expect When Caring For a Shetland Sheepdog

Training

The Shetland Sheepdog is an intelligent and quick-learning breed that responds well to positive reinforcement training techniques.

Early socialization and training are important to prevent behavioral issues and ensure your Sheltie becomes a well-behaved and obedient companion.

Nutrition

The Sheltie should be fed a balanced and nutritious diet that meets its age, size, and activity level requirements.

It is important to avoid overfeeding the breed, as they are prone to obesity and weight-related health issues.

Health

The Shetland Sheepdog is a generally healthy breed, but like all dogs, it is prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and thyroid disorders.

It is important to keep up with regular health check-ups and vaccinations to ensure your Sheltie remains healthy.

Exercise

The Shetland Sheepdog is an active breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation.

They enjoy playing with toys, going for walks or runs, and participating in canine sports such as agility and obedience training.

Grooming

The Sheltie has a thick and long double coat that requires regular grooming, including brushing and occasional trimming.

During shedding seasons, the breed may require more frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling of the fur.

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Shetland Sheepdog Traits & Characteristics

The Shetland Sheepdog is a small to medium-sized dog breed, with a height of around 13-16 inches (33-41 cm) and a weight of about 14-27 pounds (6-12 kg).

The breed has a long and narrow head, with almond-shaped dark eyes and erect ears. Its body is slightly longer than its height, with a well-proportioned, muscular build.

The Sheltie is known for its thick and double-layered coat, which comes in various colors, including sable, tricolor, and blue merle. It also has a long and fluffy tail that curls at the end.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Shetland Sheepdogs are extremely affectionate and loving. They bond quickly with humans and always want to be near their owners. They are known to be great family dogs, with a sweet and gentle personality.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Shetland Sheepdogs are wonderful dogs for families with kids. They are patient and gentle with children, and will tolerate playful activities without getting too rambunctious. They tend to be very protective of kids in their family, and make great playmates.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Shetland Sheepdogs are very friendly towards other dogs. They are known to be good at making new dog friends, and will often play together happily. They tend to prefer the company of other dogs over being alone, so having a second dog as a playmate is a great idea.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Shetland Sheepdogs can be reserved with strangers at first, but warm up quickly once they get to know them. They are not typically aggressive towards strangers, and will bark to alert their owners of someone's presence.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Shetland Sheepdogs are very playful dogs. They love to run around and play, and are always up for a game of catch or fetch. They are also great at learning new tricks and will often entertain their owners with their antics.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Shetland Sheepdogs are very alert and aware of their surroundings. They make great watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners of any suspicious activity. They are also very intelligent and can easily be trained to do a variety of tasks.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Shetland Sheepdogs are very adaptable dogs. They can do well in both city and rural environments, and can also adjust well to changes in routine or family lifestyle. However, they do require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Shetland Sheepdogs have a moderate amount of shedding. They have a thick double coat, which sheds seasonally, so regular grooming is a must. Weekly brushing can help decrease shedding and keep their coat healthy.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Shetland Sheepdogs require regular grooming to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny. They have a thick double coat that can tangle and mat if not brushed regularly. They also need to have their nails trimmed and teeth brushed regularly.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Shetland Sheepdogs are known to be dry-mouthed, and do not drool excessively. This makes them great pets for those who are put off by overly slobbery dogs.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Shetland Sheepdogs are a medium-sized breed, weighing between 14-27 pounds and standing 13-16 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy build and come in a variety of colors like tricolor, sable, and blue merle.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Shetland Sheepdogs have a moderate energy level. They enjoy daily exercise and mental stimulation, but are also content to lounge around the house with their owners. Having a yard for them to play in is a plus, but daily walks and playtime can suffice.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Shetland Sheepdogs require daily exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They enjoy running around, playing games, and going on walks or hikes. Regular exercise can prevent behavior problems and obesity in this breed.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Shetland Sheepdogs were originally bred as herding dogs and still have a strong herding instinct. They can excel at tasks that require focus and agility, like obedience and agility training. They make great competitors, and love to engage in work that challenges them mentally and physically.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Shetland Sheepdogs were not originally bred for hunting, and do not typically have a strong prey drive or hunting instinct. They are more suited for companionship and as family pets.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Shetland Sheepdogs have a good level of physical stamina and endurance. They enjoy running around and playing, and do not tire easily. They can keep up with their owners on long walks or hikes and are always up for a game of fetch or frisbee.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Shetland Sheepdogs are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Regular vet checkups and proper nutrition can help prevent these health issues from becoming problematic.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Shetland Sheepdogs can be prone to obesity if not given enough daily exercise and a balanced diet. They enjoy playing and running around, so daily activities can help them maintain a healthy weight. Portion control and limiting treats is also recommended.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Shetland Sheepdogs do best in moderate temperatures. They can tolerate cold weather, but may need a coat or sweater on extremely cold days. Extreme hot or cold weather should be avoided, as their thick double coat may not provide adequate protection.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Shetland Sheepdogs can tolerate hot weather, but may need extra cooling measures like shade, water, or air conditioning. They do not do well in extreme hot or humid conditions, and should be monitored for signs of heat stroke.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Shetland Sheepdogs can do well in an apartment if given enough daily exercise and mental stimulation. They are moderate energy dogs and do not require a large yard to play in. However, their barking can be a problem in close living quarters.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Shetland Sheepdogs are known to wander or roam if not properly supervised. They have a strong herding instinct and may chase after small animals or cars. A secure yard or leash is necessary when outside to prevent them from wandering off.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Shetland Sheepdogs are a sensitive breed. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or negative reinforcement. Positive reinforcement training and gentle handling is recommended to prevent stress or anxiety.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Shetland Sheepdogs can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time. They thrive on human companionship and need daily interaction to prevent boredom. Crate training and gradual alone time can help prevent separation anxiety.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Shetland Sheepdogs are moderate barkers. They will bark to alert their owners of strangers or suspicious activity, but are not excessive barkers on a regular basis. Training can help curb excessive barking if it becomes a problem.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Shetland Sheepdogs are very intelligent dogs and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy learning new tricks, playing games, and doing activities that challenge their minds, like agility training.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Shetland Sheepdogs are an excellent breed for novice owners. They are easy to train, affectionate, and make great family pets. They are sensitive dogs, so positive reinforcement training is recommended to prevent behavior problems.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Shetland Sheepdogs are a highly intelligent breed and are very easy to train. They are eager to please their owners and enjoy learning new things. Positive reinforcement training is recommended for this sensitive breed.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Shetland Sheepdogs are extremely affectionate and loving. They bond quickly with humans and always want to be near their owners. They are known to be great family dogs, with a sweet and gentle personality.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Shetland Sheepdogs are wonderful dogs for families with kids. They are patient and gentle with children, and will tolerate playful activities without getting too rambunctious. They tend to be very protective of kids in their family, and make great playmates.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Shetland Sheepdogs are very friendly towards other dogs. They are known to be good at making new dog friends, and will often play together happily. They tend to prefer the company of other dogs over being alone, so having a second dog as a playmate is a great idea.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Shetland Sheepdogs can be reserved with strangers at first, but warm up quickly once they get to know them. They are not typically aggressive towards strangers, and will bark to alert their owners of someone's presence.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Shetland Sheepdogs are very playful dogs. They love to run around and play, and are always up for a game of catch or fetch. They are also great at learning new tricks and will often entertain their owners with their antics.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Shetland Sheepdogs are very alert and aware of their surroundings. They make great watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners of any suspicious activity. They are also very intelligent and can easily be trained to do a variety of tasks.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Shetland Sheepdogs are very adaptable dogs. They can do well in both city and rural environments, and can also adjust well to changes in routine or family lifestyle. However, they do require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Shetland Sheepdogs have a moderate amount of shedding. They have a thick double coat, which sheds seasonally, so regular grooming is a must. Weekly brushing can help decrease shedding and keep their coat healthy.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Shetland Sheepdogs require regular grooming to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny. They have a thick double coat that can tangle and mat if not brushed regularly. They also need to have their nails trimmed and teeth brushed regularly.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Shetland Sheepdogs are known to be dry-mouthed, and do not drool excessively. This makes them great pets for those who are put off by overly slobbery dogs.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Shetland Sheepdogs are a medium-sized breed, weighing between 14-27 pounds and standing 13-16 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy build and come in a variety of colors like tricolor, sable, and blue merle.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Shetland Sheepdogs have a moderate energy level. They enjoy daily exercise and mental stimulation, but are also content to lounge around the house with their owners. Having a yard for them to play in is a plus, but daily walks and playtime can suffice.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Shetland Sheepdogs require daily exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They enjoy running around, playing games, and going on walks or hikes. Regular exercise can prevent behavior problems and obesity in this breed.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Shetland Sheepdogs were originally bred as herding dogs and still have a strong herding instinct. They can excel at tasks that require focus and agility, like obedience and agility training. They make great competitors, and love to engage in work that challenges them mentally and physically.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Shetland Sheepdogs were not originally bred for hunting, and do not typically have a strong prey drive or hunting instinct. They are more suited for companionship and as family pets.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Shetland Sheepdogs have a good level of physical stamina and endurance. They enjoy running around and playing, and do not tire easily. They can keep up with their owners on long walks or hikes and are always up for a game of fetch or frisbee.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Shetland Sheepdogs are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Regular vet checkups and proper nutrition can help prevent these health issues from becoming problematic.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Shetland Sheepdogs can be prone to obesity if not given enough daily exercise and a balanced diet. They enjoy playing and running around, so daily activities can help them maintain a healthy weight. Portion control and limiting treats is also recommended.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Shetland Sheepdogs do best in moderate temperatures. They can tolerate cold weather, but may need a coat or sweater on extremely cold days. Extreme hot or cold weather should be avoided, as their thick double coat may not provide adequate protection.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Shetland Sheepdogs can tolerate hot weather, but may need extra cooling measures like shade, water, or air conditioning. They do not do well in extreme hot or humid conditions, and should be monitored for signs of heat stroke.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Shetland Sheepdogs can do well in an apartment if given enough daily exercise and mental stimulation. They are moderate energy dogs and do not require a large yard to play in. However, their barking can be a problem in close living quarters.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Shetland Sheepdogs are known to wander or roam if not properly supervised. They have a strong herding instinct and may chase after small animals or cars. A secure yard or leash is necessary when outside to prevent them from wandering off.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Shetland Sheepdogs are a sensitive breed. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or negative reinforcement. Positive reinforcement training and gentle handling is recommended to prevent stress or anxiety.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Shetland Sheepdogs can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time. They thrive on human companionship and need daily interaction to prevent boredom. Crate training and gradual alone time can help prevent separation anxiety.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Shetland Sheepdogs are moderate barkers. They will bark to alert their owners of strangers or suspicious activity, but are not excessive barkers on a regular basis. Training can help curb excessive barking if it becomes a problem.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Shetland Sheepdogs are very intelligent dogs and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy learning new tricks, playing games, and doing activities that challenge their minds, like agility training.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Shetland Sheepdogs are an excellent breed for novice owners. They are easy to train, affectionate, and make great family pets. They are sensitive dogs, so positive reinforcement training is recommended to prevent behavior problems.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Shetland Sheepdogs are a highly intelligent breed and are very easy to train. They are eager to please their owners and enjoy learning new things. Positive reinforcement training is recommended for this sensitive breed.

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History of the Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog originated in the 1800s as a working dog breed in the Shetland Islands, Scotland.

It is believed that the breed was developed by crossing various small Scottish dogs, including the Border Collie and the King Charles Spaniel.

The Sheltie is the miniature version of the Rough Collie, and it was recognized as a separate breed by the American Kennel Club in 1911.

Shetland Sheepdog Puppies

Sheltie puppies are born with a soft and fluffy coat that becomes thicker and longer as they grow.

They are energetic and curious, and they require regular exercise and socialization to develop into well-behaved and friendly adult dogs.