Miniature Collie, Shetland Collie (obsolete), Dwarf Scotch Shepherd (obsolete), Toonie Dog (obsolete), Sheltie
Overview
The Shetland sheepdog is a medium, agile dog, longer than it is tall. Its gait is smooth, effortless and ground-covering, imparting good agility, speed and endurance essential in a herding dog. It has a double coat, with a short, dense undercoat and a long, straight, harsh outer coat. The hair of the mane, frill and tail is abundant. Its expression is gentle, intelligent and questioning. Although it resembles a rough collie in miniature, subtle differences distinguish the breeds.
The Shetland sheepdog is extremely bright, sensitive and willing to please. This combination makes for a dog that is very obedient, quick to learn and utterly devoted to its family. It is not only gentle, playful, amiable and companionable, but also excellent with children, although it can nip at heels in play. It is reserved and often timid toward strangers. It barks a lot.
| Size | Small |
| Height | 13-16 inches (33-41 cm) |
| Weight | 14-27 pounds (6-12 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Colors | Black & White Black White & Tan Blue Merle & White Blue Merle White & Tan Sable & White Sable Merle & White |
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
The Sheltie will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
The Shelties generally get along with other dogs, typically seem to enjoy cats, and are fine with other household pets. |
| Exercise Needs |
This active, graceful dog needs lots of exercise, which includes a daily walk or jog. They will also enjoy running free, but be sure the dog is in a safe area. |
| Trainability |
Easy Training: Training will be enjoyable. This dog is inclined to listen to commands and obey its owner. This breed will require fewer repetitions to obey specific instructions, pleasing owners who like to see quick results. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
Moderate Maintenance: Regular and thorough brushing and combing is a must for this double-coat breed, because the undercoat can mat into a layer of uncomfortable felt while the long outer coat still looks normal. Ask your Sheltie’s breeder to show you how to brush him so you get all the way down to the skin. Shelties are good at keeping themselves clean, especially if you do your part by brushing regularly. Give your Sheltie a bath once every month or two. He shouldn’t need one more often than that. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: Expect this dog to shed regularly. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Frequent |