The Shetland Sheepdog

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Background Anomaly (CEA), corneal dystrophy, progressive Lively like a roving Scotsman, The Shetland Sheepdog retinal atrophy (PRA), and optic nerve (Sheltie) is a miniature version of a Collie that hypoplasia originated on the small but rugged Shetland Islands Hypothyroidism northeast of Great Britain. Hip dysplasia Allergies The Sheltie’s history is a little fuzzy, but it could von Willebrand's disease possibly be traced back to the Rough Collie of Scotland. Patent ductus arteriosis (PDA) The Sheltie was probably created by crossbreeding the original Sheltie – similar to the larger Icelandic Right for you? Sheepdog – with small, intelligent, long haired breeds. As with any new pet, there are some considerations to The Sheltie was a working dog, used to protect homes make before you welcome a happy-go-lucky Shetland and herd livestock. Sheepdog into your family:

The breed was first registered in the United States all The Sheltie is a barker. At the sight of a the way back in 1911, and today the Sheltie is among strange dog or person, the Sheltie will spin like a the top 20 dog breeds in America. top and bark like mad. While this was once considered a positive trait because it helped Sizing Up stave off livestock thieves and danger, it can be The Shetland Sheepdog is essentially a smaller version pretty annoying to live with. of a Rough Collie: The Sheltie’s natural herding instinct is strong: he’ll chase squirrels, joggers, cars, Weight: less than 30 pounds and even the occasional mailman. To keep a Height: 13-16 inches (paw to shoulder) Sheltie under control – and out of dangerous Coat: Long double coat, moderate shedder situations – it’s important to start training early Color: Black, blue merle, and sable and stick with it. Lifespan: 12-14 years Exercise! As we like to say, a tired dog is a good dog. The Sheltie needs a lot of exercise What are they like? (both physical and mental), but it’s worth it to Zoom! keep him well-behaved. The Sheltie has a double coat, so he needs Lively and extremely intelligent, the Sheltie constantly regular brushing to avoid matting and amazes with his speed and ability to learn tricks. He tangling. Also, professional grooming every 5 excels in games of agility, but he can also play fetch for or 6 weeks is a good idea, especially in the fall hours and hours. He’s also known for the “Sheltie spin” when Shelties shed the most. because when he gets excited, he’ll jump and spin wildly like a top! When trained well and exercised thoroughly, the Shetland Sheepdog can be a great companion for the The Sheltie is a great breed for active families, and he’s right person or family. the ideal companion for walking, running, and hiking. He’s also brilliant: considered the 6th most intelligent If you have any questions or concerns, you should dog breed, he’s highly trainable and eager to please. always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your Importantly, the Sheltie gets along well with children, best resource to ensure the health and well-being of other dogs, and cats. your pets.

The Sheltie is generally a healthy, hardy breed, but he is prone to some genetic health problems:

Genetic eye problems, including Collie Eye

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