Breed of the Week - Shetland Sheepdog

by Alexis Esty

The ancestors of Shetland Sheepdogs were Collie type herding dogs of the Shetland Islands, north of Scotland. Some of these dogs were quite small, only 18 inches in height. In areas with no fencing, a herder was essential to keep livestock away from cultivated land. Shetland Sheepdogs were considered an all-around farm dog and herded not only sheep, but also ponies and chickens.

British naval fleets used to frequent the islands and often brought these puppies home to England. The early Shelties were referred to as "Toonie" dogs (Tun being the local word for farm) but were initially shown at Kennel Club dog shows around 1906 as Shetland Collies. Collie fanciers objected to the name so eventually it was changed to Shetland Sheepdog although they are commonly referred to by their nickname of Sheltie.

Following the immense popularity of Collies in the 1970’s, the Sheltie became the answer to the family wanting a loyal, striking pet of a smaller size. Shetland Sheepdogs are now one of the most popular breeds in the world and rank 18th in the nation according to AKC registration.

Today’s Shetland Sheepdogs are small, agile dogs, weighing approximately 20 pounds, and are longer than they are tall (13-16 inches) with a gait that is smooth, effortless and ground covering, imparting good agility, speed and endurance which is essential in a herding dog.

Shelties are extremely bright, sensitive and willing to please. Because of these traits, they are very obedient and quick to learn. Shelties are utterly devoted to family and are gentle, playful, amiable and companionable. They are excellent with children but may have a tendency to nip at the heels while playing. Being reserved, they can often be timid towards strangers. Shelties bark, A LOT.

Shelties are very energetic and need a good amount of exercise. A nice long walk, short jog or active game and training sessions should suffice. Shetland Sheepdogs are natural herding dogs, so if you don’t live on a farm, you can keep them busy with activities such as agility, fly-ball or obedience.

Grooming
The thick coat of the Shetland Sheepdog needs to be brushed at least every other day, if not every day. Brushing prevents matting and aids in removing shed hair. You should always mist your Sheltie with leave-in conditioner, waterless bath or water before brushing because dry brushing can break the hair and damage the coat.

Health
According to the American Shetland Sheepdog Association, health problems, in general, are not common in Shelties. One major health concern of the Sheltie, although not common, is dermatomyositis, an inflammatory disease of connective tissues, manifested by skin inflammation and muscle weakness. Minor concerns include CEA (Collie eye anomaly) also known as Sheltie Eye Syndrome, PRA (progressive retinal atrophy), trichiasis (when eyelashes are misdirected into the eye causing irritation), cataracts, CHD (canine hip dysplasia), patellar luxation and allergies.

A responsible breeder will test their breeding stock for common hereditary diseases and register with CERF (the Canine Eye Registration Foundation) and have their dogs cleared by the OFA ((Orthopedic Foundation for Animals).