Shetland Sheepdog
Herding Group
Height at Shoulders
13-16 in
Weight
25-35 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-14 yrs
History
The Shetland Sheepdog, nicknamed the "Sheltie", originated on the Shetland Islands- the northernmost point in the United Kingdom. They were bred to be small herding dogs, as food on the rocky island was scarce and it was beneficial to have less dog to feed. This was a common practice with breeding domesticated animals on the islands, such as with the Shetland pony. It is likely that the Shetland Sheepdog has King Charles Spaniel, Pomeranian, Icelandic Sheepdog, Border Collie, and Rough Collie in their ancestry.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Shetland Sheepdogs share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★★☆
★★★★★
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★★★★
Intelligence
★★★★★
Affection Towards Family
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★★★★
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
Energy Level
★★★★☆
Sensitivity
★★★★★
Noise Level
★★★★☆
Prey Drive
★★★☆☆
Shedding
★★★★★
Common Traits
One of the most intelligent dog breeds
Might try to herd squirrels, other animals, cars, and children
Have a strong work ethic and a huge amount of exercise, mental stimulation, and preferably a job to perform
Don't mind being home alone all day as long as they're given lots of affection when their family returns
When they're excited, will spin around rapidly in circles while barking (called the "Sheltie spin")
Tend to bark at everything- make great guard dogs but can become nuisance barkers if not taught good manners
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