Shetland Sheepdog
AKA: Sheltie
Description: The Shetland Sheepdog is an attractive breed with a similarity of a Rough Collie, but is much smaller in size. They have a long wedge-shaped head and they are very hairy. The coat is long and soft, fluffy undercoat to protect them. Their color can be dark, blue merle, black and white or black and tan. The top part of the muzzle should be alike to that of the skull. Their eyes are dark, almond-shaped except in blue merle dogs that they may be blue or merle color and teeth should met in scissors bite. Its hair is very thick around the neck, it’s like they are wearing a ruffle. The Shetland Sheepdog has an elegant long, hairy tail and pliable, soft ears. This breed has a very intelligent and smart expression. they are very strong, rapid and agile.
Temperament: This breed is very energetic and have variety of characters. An excellent companion dog, because they are gentle,sensitive and loyal. Moreover, they a very lively, easy to train dog. Very willing to please and obedient. They always long for love and companionship. Thus, owners should spare time for them because they could be destructive if left alone. The Sheltie is a family dog and enjoys plenty of attention and embrace from their owner. And for a balanced temperament, they should be trained for early socialization since some of them can be shy and aloof. Some strangers could not touch them. When there are some suspicious strangers, they could raise an alarm by barking. This breed is a good guard and watchdog. These dogs are best for older children, and will usually get along well with other animals. It needs a stable environment to live in, and does not like loud noises or tense atmospheres. Sheltie has a very strong herding instinct and they love to chase things.
Activity: They are active indoors and will be okey for them even without a yard. They also require a good amount of exercise and a daily walk or jog would be best for them as well. And they love to run freely but they should be in a safe area.
Grooming: Their coat is easy to care. They can be brushed regularly to to get mats before it gets bad. They shed heavily on seasonal basis only in spring and fall. Bathe and dry shampoo them only when necessary.
Health Problems: Their life span is around 12-14 years, and health problems includes: epilepsy, vWD, thyroid problems, luxating patella, PRA, HD, eye problems, seizures, and heart problems.
Breed Group: Herding, AKC Herding
Color: Black, blue merle, and sable, marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 20 lbs
Country Of Origin: Shetland Islands
Dynamics: Affectionate, intelligent, quick learner, loyal, active, reserved with strangers but never aggressive.
