History and origin
From the Shetland Islands, where small herding dogs watched sheep on sparse pasture. The breed took shape from local dogs with an admixture of collie, and the Kennel Club recognised it in 1909.
FCI 1/1/88 · Country of origin United Kingdom
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or “Sheltie,” originates from the Shetland Islands of Scotland, where in the 19th century it was developed from small British herding breeds to work sheep in harsh weather and rugged terrain. It features a graceful yet sturdy build and a thick double coat with an abundant undercoat, commonly in combinations of black-and-white, tricolor, or sable with tan markings. Originally prized for its agility, speed, and ability to cover vast pastures, today’s Sheltie is an intelligent, trainable, and sensitive companion requiring regular exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent positive training.
- Height
- 33–39.5 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–14 years
Verified breeders
Shetland Sheepdog breeders
1 verified breeder · no puppies available
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Temperament
Alert, gentle, intelligent and active. Affectionate and responsive to its owner, reserved towards strangers, never nervous. It likes to work and learns fast — in agility and obedience it is among the most successful breeds.
Care
The abundant coat with its dense undercoat is combed at least weekly and daily during moult; the mane and trousers mat first. Up to an hour of exercise a day plus work for the head. The tendency to bark is a matter for training, not punishment.
Health
DNA tests cover the eye disease typical of collies (CEA) and the drug sensitivity caused by the MDR1 gene mutation — the latter is critical before certain medicines are given. Hip dysplasia and the thyroid are watched.
Who it suits
For a family and a smaller house, suitable for a first-time owner. Good with children. Wrong where barking would be a problem, and for anyone unwilling to groom.
Original use
Companion dog and sheepdog.
Current use
Companion; agility, obedience and herding trials.
- FCI number
- 1/1/88
- Country of origin
- United Kingdom
- Original use
- Companion dog and sheepdog.
- Current use
- Companion; agility, obedience and herding trials.
- Height at withers
- 33–39.5 cm
- Average lifespan
- 10–14 years
Bývanie
Dom so záhradouPotreba pohybu
StrednáK deťom
VhodnýStarostlivosť o srsť
NáročnáPre prvého psa
VhodnýPočasie
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