Shetland Sheepdog Fun Facts

Clever, energetic and athletic – here comes the Shetland Sheepdog!

History 

The Shetland Sheepdog was originally a guard dog for farmers on the Shetland Islands off the northwest coast of Scotland. The dog kept birds and sheep away from the farmers’ garden. They also worked as herding dogs, rounding up flocks of sheep.

The exact mixture of breeds that combined to create this active dog is unknown. It is thought they include Spitz-type dogs from Scandinavia, Spaniels, Pomeranians and Scottish collies. 

They are one of 18 native Scottish dogs.

Appearance

Shetland Sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, may look exactly like a smaller version of the Rough Collie, but they are two distinct breeds. 

They have a similar elongated nose and almond-shaped eyes to their taller cousins. These dogs are much smaller, standing between 31 – 44 cm at the shoulder, while a Rough Collie stands 51 – 66 cm.

Their beautiful flowing coat comes in several colours. These include black with white and tan, sable with white and tan, and blue merle with white and or tan. In their former life on the cold and wet Shetland Isles, they needed their warm, waterproof double coat. They may not be exposed to the harsh elements these days but their coat needs lots of grooming. 

Temperament

Shelties love their humans and fiercely protect them. They like to follow their people everywhere, both for companionship and as head of security. They are a vocal breed and will bark when someone’s coming or if they think something is amiss.

Their herding instinct remains strong and they will try to herd anything including birds and kids. 

Shetland Sheepdogs need lots of mental and physical stimulation. They love playing games with kids and will need exercise every day. But they are also happy to chill, once it’s time for the family to relax.

Do you have a Sheltie? What do you love most about them?