Basic Information To Know About The Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog (nicknamed the "Sheltie" and originally named the "Shetland Collie") is a herding breed that resembles a smaller version of the Rough Collie and commonly features a sable and white, black, white and tan, blue merle, sable merle or black and white coat. The breed has origins dating back to the 1700s, and they were first bred for the main purpose of herding smaller livestock.

A few of their most recognizable features include high intelligence as well as their loyal and affectionate temperament - which help make the Shetland Sheepdog a suitable choice for competitive agility or as a family companion dog.

Much of their early history is a mystery, though the Shetland Sheepdog was originally created in the Shetland Islands of Scotland when Border Collies and other herding dogs from the mainland such as the Rough Collie or Pomeranian were brought there and cross-bred with the smaller local dogs as early as the 1700s. Their smaller size enabled better control over the smaller livestock found in this area and they were also often chosen or protecting the homes of farming families.

Shetland Sheepdogs are classed as a small to medium-sized dog. The recommended standard size for the Shetland Sheepdog male and female is 13-16 inches high from paw to shoulder and a weight of 14-27 pounds.

The Shetland Sheepdog is well-known for their loyal, affectionate and obedient temperament. They are generally reserved with strangers and can bark quite a lot at them, which can make them somewhat suitable as a guard dog.

The Shetland Sheepdog is also known to be extremely intelligent - ranking 6th compared to other dogs based on their ability to learn obedience commands. They are also known to be excellent with children - making them highly suitable as a family pet. The Shetland Sheepdog is quite compatible with other dogs and smaller animals who they may try to herd without proper training.

The Shetland Sheepdog doesn't always need a yard unlike many other herding breeds, so they can be fairly suitable for apartment living if they are exercised enough. If you do have a yard, be sure it is well-fenced to prevent them escaping and chasing things like cars due to their herding instinct.

The Shetland Sheepdog enjoys activities such as chasing after a frisbee or ball, taking part in agility, herding, flyball and running free in a safe open area. They have a medium to high level of energy and need to be given daily exercise in the form of moderate walks to keep them happy - though often they may achieve much of their daily exercise needs by simply running around the yard.

The Shetland Sheepdog can make the perfect dog for a family or active owner with plenty of time to spend with a dog. They are suitable for anyone who is willing to commit to a moderate amount of grooming and take time to give them early obedience training and ongoing mental challenges as well as take them for moderate daily walks and give a very high amount of companionship and attention - as with many herding breeds, they thrive on human contact and do not do well if left alone all day. Though they might be somewhat unsuitable for those with less time to look after a dog, if you are able to meet their need for attention and regular mental stimulation then the Shetland Sheepdog could make the ideal dog breed for you.

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