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General Appearance
The Shetland Sheepdog, like the Collie, traces to the Border Collie of Scotland, which, transported to the Shetland Islands and crossed with small, intelligent, longhaired breeds, was reduced to miniature proportions. Subsequently crosses were made from time to time with Collies. This breed now bears the same relationship in size and general appearance to the Rough Collie as the Shetland Pony does to some of the larger breeds of horses. Although the resemblance between the Shetland Sheepdog and the Rough Collie is marked, there are differences which may be noted. The Shetland Sheepdog is a small, alert, rough-coated, longhaired working dog. He must be sound, agile and sturdy. The outline should be so symmetrical that no part appears out of proportion to the whole. Dogs should appear masculine; bitches feminine.
Owning
The Sheltie is a ''watch'' dog, not a guard dog; nor is it visually frightening. It will bark at intruders, but after giving warning, may either retreat or escort them through your house. One of the lovely attributes of the sheltie is the long harsh coat. Brushing the coat for half an hour each week can keep the Sheltie looking his best. The Sheltie will shed at least once a year, the shedding process can be sped up by a warm bath and more complete and more frequent brushing. Because of its small size, the Sheltie is very adaptable to city living, as long as he is given proper exercise. Shelties are good with children and make delightful family companions.
Did you know?
The first Shetland Sheepdog registered by the American Kennel Club (1911) was Lord Scott, a sable imported from Shetland, Scotland by John G. Sherman, Jr. of New York. The American Shetland Sheepdog Association, parent club of the breed, was organized at the Westminster Kennel Club show in 1929, and held its first specialty in 1933. The Shetland Sheepdog, alias Sheltie, originated in the Shetland Islands as a small herding dog.
AKC Recommends
The American Kennel Club recommends that anyone interested in a breed should take the time to thoroughly learn about that breed, talk to responsible and knowledgeable breeders and seek out the resources of the AKC national club formed by individuals devoted to preserving and protecting their breed for future generations. The AKC offers links to the official national Club of this breed - the club's officers, breeder referral, and breed rescue contact persons.
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