The Shetland Sheepdog was bred for herding sheep on rough terrain of the Shetland Islands in Scotland. This explains why Shelties are small (many animals from the Shetlands evolved in miniature) and have thick furry coats for the cold weather. While they look like a miniature Collie dog (specifically a Rough Collie) there are quite a few differences in appearance. The Shelties’ true parent breed is the Border Collie.
What are Shelties Like as Pets?
The Shetland Sheepdog makes a wonderful pet. Often called the mini Lassie, they are very intelligent, learning new commands in as little as five repetitions, and love to play herding and fetching games. While Border Collies and other working dogs demand considerable exercise each day, Shelties are happy in most home environments, even in small city apartments. They require a minimum of 30 minutes’ exercise a day, though preferably more.
What are Common Sheltie Tendencies?
While the herding instinct can be played down, most Shelties have strong watchdog tendencies, and will bark at most home “intruders”. They like to be included with the family in all activities, even if it means going into the water! Most Shelties are afraid of water but can be desensitized gradually over time. While Shelties are known for their bark, they only bark for a reason, and can be trained to stop barking on command.
What do Shelties Look Like?
The average Shetland Sheepdog is 14 inches high to the shoulder, making them a small to medium breed of dog. They have a thick double coat, made up of two types of fur, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Females will always shed more frequently than males. There are three main colors of Shetland Sheepdog: sable and white (ranging from gold to mahogany), tri-color (black, white and tan), and blue merle (gray, white, black and tan). Shelties have long gentle faces, pointy ears and bushy tails, making them extremely cute and fox-like.
Which Dogs do Shelties Get Along With?
The Shetland Sheepdog is small and submissive, and will be pushed aside by more dominant dogs. Even small and toy breeds that are much smaller than Shelties may show aggression and try to take charge. Avoid Terriers or anything too big, and consider Cocker Spaniels or Miniature Poodles as friends for a pet Sheltie. However, it’s best to wait until the Sheltie is fully grown and attached to the family before introducing a new puppy. Of course, the best solution is to get a second Sheltie puppy!
Readers who found Which Dog? A Guide to Shelties interesting may also like Sheltie Nation.
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