Breed Profile: Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland sheepdogs are often mistaken for small collies, but though there’s some collie blood in the Sheltie’s distant past, the Sheltie as we know it was originally developed on the Shetland Islands, which lie off the northern coast of Scotland. Whereas larger breeds of dog such as the collie and the old English sheepdog would not fare well navigating the difficult landscape of the Shetland Islands, the smaller and nimbler-footed Sheltie was capable of maneuvering over the island’s rocks and crevices, enabling it to serve as a herding dog as well as a farm dog and family companion. The Sheltie was with some of Britain’s small collie breeds to improve working ability, and its lineage also is believed to include black-and-tan King Charles spaniels and spitz-type dogs from Scandinavia, who arrived in the Shetland Islands on fishing boats in the 1700s.

The first known appearance of the Sheltie in the United States was in 1910, though it’s likely that Scottish immigrants brought their dogs to the country long before that. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1911, and the Sheltie is now not only one of the most popular breeds in the country. It has also proven highly adept in conformation and obedience rings nationwide.

The following description is of an “ideal” Sheltie. Not all Shelties will fit the description exactly, but that’s not an issue unless you want one who can participate in dog shows.

The Sheltie is loyal, affectionate, and intelligent. Still very much the working dog his ancestors were, he retains many of the characteristics necessary to a rugged herding dog, but he also serves as a gentle companion.

Here are some traits to consider when determining how well a Sheltie is going to fit in with you and your family.

The Sheltie is a “people dog,” and if denied the opportunity to spend time with the people he loves, he may demand attention by becoming a frequent barker. Even the best-bred Sheltie can become unhappy and hard to live with if not given time to bond with and please his owners. A Sheltie is very affectionate with his family—even following members around the house—but may be wary of strangers. He also will get along particularly well with children as long as they are instructed on the proper way to interact with a dog.

The Sheltie was bred for farm work but is small enough that he can live comfortably in an apartment or condo as long as his exercise needs are met. This dog can adapt to any type of living situation and can be happy with a single owner with a more sedentary lifestyle or in a busy multi-member household. He also fits well into homes with other breeds of dog, cats, or other animals, as long as he is well socialized. Shelties tend to be frequent barkers, which may be problematic for people who live in close proximity to their neighbors.

The Shetland sheepdog was bred to work a full day, every day. In the absence of a job to do, your Sheltie will require a great deal of exercise to stay healthy and happy, as well as to exert his energy in a nondestructive manner. Shelties enjoy regular jogging or other activities with their owners, but having a fenced yard or other enclosed space is also ideal to let your Sheltie run and play in a safe environment.

Shelties are intelligent and take to training quickly. They excel in activities ranging from agility to conformation and formal obedience, and are considered one of the easier breeds of dog to train. They have a strong desire to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement.