Shetland Sheepdogs cannot deny their relationship with the long-haired collies. But they are much more than a miniature version of “Lassie”. The sensitive and intelligent Shelties are loyal companions when hiking and enthusiastically participate in every dog sport. Thanks to their uncomplicated character, they prove to be wonderful family dogs.

ProfileShetland Sheepdog

Much more than a small collie

The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie for short, comes from the Shetland Islands and is visually similar to the long-haired Collies. In the harsh climate of the islands, small animals such as Shetland ponies and Shetland sheep thrive. Farmers therefore needed a frugal, small dog to herd – and a nimble working dog. It is believed that the Sheltie originated from a cross between Border Collies and Greenland dogs. Collies are also said to have been involved – the external similarity speaks for this. In 1909, enthusiasts founded the Shetland Collie Club with the aim of breeding a miniature version of the Collie. This in turn provoked resistance from collie breeders, which is why the breed was not recognised by the British Kennel Club until five years later. Today, Shelties are kept as companion and shepherd dogs. They are often found in dog sports such as agility. The breed standard provides for an ideal size of 37 centimeters for males and 35.5 centimeters for females. A deviation of more than two and a half centimeters is undesirable. The Shetland Sheepdog is bred in the colors sable, tricolor, blue merle, black and white and black with tan.

The character of the Sheltie

Shelties are by no means lap dogs, but robust working dogs. They learn quickly and easily. Above all, the Shetland Sheepdog wants to please its human and prefer to be close to it all day long – being there is everything for the small dog. As herding dogs, Shelties have a low stimulus threshold. This sometimes leads to them being happy to report and comment. They are very sensitive dogs that develop a lot of empathy for their caregiver. At first, they are reserved towards strangers, which makes them good guardians of house and yard

They do everything for their family, so they are also well suited as family dogs.

Education and keeping of the Shetland Sheepdog

The will to please and his sensitivity make the Sheltie an easy dog to train. But: He does not tolerate too much pressure in training. The Sheltie is ideal for people who like to be active in the fresh air. If you keep your Shetland Sheepdog mentally and physically active, you can even keep him indoors. When raising the puppy, make sure that he keeps his rest periods. This way you will get a balanced dog that will have fun and accept it when there is no “action” announced.

Caring for the Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is a long-haired dog with a lush coat and soft undercoat. Nevertheless, grooming is easy. Brush your Sheltie once a week. You should pay special attention to the ears and armpits, where the fur tends to matte. Comb here more often or cut the felt knots out of the fur regularly.

Health of the Sheltie

The Shetland Sheepdog is considered a relatively robust breed. Nevertheless, hereditary defects such as HD (hip dysplasia), MDR1 defect (drug intolerance) and CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly) occur occasionally. Therefore, buy your Sheltie from a reputable breeder.

You might also be interested in these great German Shepherd breeds:

• Mini Australian Shepherd: The miniature edition of the Australian Shepherd convinces as an intelligent herding dog.
• Tervueren: The Tervueren is relatively rare in Germany. It is a variant of the Belgian Shepherd Dog with a long coat. Characteristic is the red coat with the black mask.
• Schipperke: A curious look and steeply erected pointed ears – the Schipperke is an extremely attentive contemporary. The small Belgian shepherd dog is considered extremely vigilant and does not let his territory and his reserve pack out of his sight.
• Eastern European Shepherd: The Eastern European Shepherd is the larger and heavier version of the German Shepherd. This breed really blossoms when it is allowed to show what it can do. It willingly carries out orders and is focused and eager.
• Malinois: The Malinois is an extremely clever, lively and highly active working dog with Belgian roots. The dog breed is used worldwide in the police and military service. Training and exercise of the sporty Belgian Shepherd Dog place high demands on the owner.
• Dutch Shepherd Dog: The Dutch Shepherd is a former herding dog and was later used as a guard dog or police dog. The animals are independent due to their previous task and need a loving but consistent hand.
• Groenendael: The Groenendael wants to be kept physically and mentally on his toes: walks of several hours, agility training or dog frisbee are a must! If you give him the opportunity to work out enough, he will fit in wonderfully with your family.