The Shetland Sheepdog

About the Breed

The Shetland Sheepdog is a medium, double coated dog that originated from the Scottish Shetland Islands. They were bred to be a farmer’s herding dog by day and, after finishing the day’s work, his companion.

Today, Shelties versatility has led them to be successful in many venues, including companionship, agility, obedience, rally, scent work, tracking, and herding. They are very trainable and generally have a medium energy level. They are friendly and good with children. Most Shelties are adaptable to different living lifestyles, such as farm, suburban, or urban living. They are intelligent, trainable, and willing to please.

Shelties should be between 13 and 16 inches, measured at the withers, though at times do grow to be less or more than standard size. Shelties come in four different colors (sable and white, tri-colored, bi-black, blue merle, and bi-blue merle). They have a double coat., which protects them from winter cold, summer warmth, and the various weather conditions from each time of year.