Blue Ridge Shetland Sheepdog Club
Sheltie Information
About The Shetland Sheepdog
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The Shetland Sheepdog, commonly called a Sheltie, is a medium-smaller dog from the Shetland Isles off the north coast of Scotland. Their history may have included herding or all around farm work, Today, Shelties are more often found competing in Agility, Obedience, Rally and Conformation. Shelties are not Collies in miniature, but are a different breed entirely. They are dynamic and can make wonderful companions.
The Sheltie Standard calls for heights between 13" – 16" at the shoulder with some dogs being smaller or larger than ideal. They have a double coat that consists of a soft undercoat and a harsher, weather resistant outer coat that requires regular grooming to manage shedding. Shelties come in several colors: Sable (brown), Tri Color (black, white and tan), Blue Merle (merle, white and tan), Bi-Black (black and white), and Bi-Blue (merle and white).
Please click for pictures and descriptions of the various colors
Shelties love to be with people and need human interaction. They are devoted to their families but often reserved toward strangers. Shelties can be vocal if not taught to curb their natural instinct to bark. Proper exercise and socialization will keep your Sheltie busy and out of trouble. Carefully chosen, the Sheltie can fit into any lifestyle or family situation, but this is not a breed for people who want a dog they can leave in the back yard without supervision. Once a Sheltie trusts you, you have a friend for life.
site updated 1/2010