Breeds 101: Meet the Shetland Sheepdog

Today’s “Breeds 101” focus is on the Shetland Sheepdog. Known for their high intelligence, versatility, and gorgeous coat, the Shetland Sheepdog is a fan favorite.

Commonly known as the Sheltie, this petite herding dog hails from the remote Shetland Islands, which are the northernmost point in the United Kingdom. Used as a working dog, farmers needed Shetland Sheepdogs to herd livestock like sheep, ponies, and poultry. Descendants from the larger Collie, the smaller size of the Sheltie was more efficient in Islands due to the scarcity of food.

Due to the inaccessibility of the Shetland Islands, the Sheltie was almost entirely unknown to the majority of Britain until the early 20th century. Today, the Sheltie is very popular ranking at 27 out of 195 on the American Kennel Club’s most popular breeds list.

According to AKC Breed Standard the Shetland Sheepdog is a “small, alert, rough-coated, long haired 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.”

Once widely unknown, the Shetland Sheepdog has become a well loved dog due to its bright personality, high intelligence, and versatility as a breed.

The Shetland Sheepdog comes in a variety of colors with the standard colors including: black & white, black, white & tan, blue merle & white, blue merle, white & tan, sable & white, and sable merle & white. There are additional color combinations that are recognized but not considered standard.

Shelties typically stand 13 to 16 inches tall and weigh between 15 to 25 pounds. The average lifespan for these pups is 12-14 years. Additional standard body type information can be found at the American Shetland Sheepdog Association’s website.

Originally bred to withstand harsh conditions, the Sheltie has a voluminous double coat that helps with temperature regulation. Since this coat helps keep them warm in winter as well as cooler in summer, shaving it should be avoided. They do require frequent brushing to keep shedding and mats under control.

Eager to please, Shelties excel in many canine events such as agility, herding, and obedience. These events can also be great for letting their natural athleticism shine. With proper amounts of regular exercise such as walks, these dogs can adapt easily to family life too.

President Calvin Coolidge shared the White House with his Shetland Sheepdog, Calamity Jane. She was an all white Sheltie sent to them after they lost their pure white Rough Collie Prudence Prim.