Cute as a button, smart as a fox!
The Shetland Sheepdog, more commonly known as the "Sheltie" is one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world, ranking 6th place out of 132 breeds tested! Agile and compact, these herding dogs resemble the Rough Collie. Although the Rough Collie contributed to the Sheltie's breeding, is believed their main ancestors were Spitz breeds combined with Pomeranians, King Charles Spaniels, and Border Collies.
Shelties have a double coat and come in a wide variety of colors, from sables to merles. Their protective fur helps them stay warm and dry when herding sheep in the colder, wet climates. Originating in the Shetland Isles of Scotland in the 1700's, the Shetland Sheepdog became popular in Australia in the 1950's and can be seen excelling in all areas of dog sports - fly ball, obedience, tracking, agility, and especially herding trials.
The Sheltie has an inquisitive face and brain-power to match and is known for being a loyal and dedicated family member. They are easy to train and aim to please, and despite their innocent faces can make a fierce guard dog when protecting their home and family.
Shetland Sheepdogs have a life span of approximately 12 to 15 years and are generally healthy dogs. Although weight gain can be an issue, Shelties that are kept active and fed quality diets are less prone to weight-related illness such as Diabetes or Patella issues. The Sheltie, like its cousin the Rough Collie, can be prone to genetic eye problems. Careful breeding and health screening programs can help to minimize the risk of eye disease.
This swift, compact, intelligent dog has the ability of its much larger canine relatives when it comes to trainability and herding skills. The Sheltie has been a favorite companion and working breed for many years and possesses a personality which is endearing and sweet. Shelties are good with other animals and are gentle with children in general. The Sheltie is a breed that may require a little more grooming than others its size but with a heart of gold and the ability to learn new commands quickly they will remain a favorite with people of all ages for years to come.
Shelties have a double coat and come in a wide variety of colors, from sables to merles. Their protective fur helps them stay warm and dry when herding sheep in the colder, wet climates. Originating in the Shetland Isles of Scotland in the 1700's, the Shetland Sheepdog became popular in Australia in the 1950's and can be seen excelling in all areas of dog sports - fly ball, obedience, tracking, agility, and especially herding trials.
The Sheltie has an inquisitive face and brain-power to match and is known for being a loyal and dedicated family member. They are easy to train and aim to please, and despite their innocent faces can make a fierce guard dog when protecting their home and family.
Shetland Sheepdogs have a life span of approximately 12 to 15 years and are generally healthy dogs. Although weight gain can be an issue, Shelties that are kept active and fed quality diets are less prone to weight-related illness such as Diabetes or Patella issues. The Sheltie, like its cousin the Rough Collie, can be prone to genetic eye problems. Careful breeding and health screening programs can help to minimize the risk of eye disease.
This swift, compact, intelligent dog has the ability of its much larger canine relatives when it comes to trainability and herding skills. The Sheltie has been a favorite companion and working breed for many years and possesses a personality which is endearing and sweet. Shelties are good with other animals and are gentle with children in general. The Sheltie is a breed that may require a little more grooming than others its size but with a heart of gold and the ability to learn new commands quickly they will remain a favorite with people of all ages for years to come.
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