Read About Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog's are petite and sensitive dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Shetland Sheepdog Summary:

1. Size:

   Small Dog Breed

2. Weight:

   12-18 lbs

3. Coat:

   Long Haired

4. Shedding:

   Seasonally Heavy

5. Temperament:

   Gentle

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Sometimes Friendly

Shetland Sheepdog - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Herding;1911

2. Size & Weight:

   12-15 inches tall, 12-18 lbs

3. Coat:

   Shetland Sheepdog's have a long, straight and course outer coat and a short, furry and thick undercoat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their head is long, blunt and tapers slightly. The muzzle is the same length as the skull. They have small flexible high set ears.

5. Body:

   Shetland Sheepdog's have a muscular, arched neck and a deep chest that reaches their elbows.

6. Colors:

   According to the AKC acceptable colors are black, blue merle and sable with or without white markings.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-15 years

8. Popularity:

   In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 18 out of 154 breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The Shetland Sheepdog will do fine living in an apartment as long as they get plenty of exercise. They are fairly active indoors and will be fine with no yard.

Shetland Sheepdog - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Scotland

2. Historical Information:

   The Shetland Sheepdog breed was developed around 1700. They are probably descendants of the Scottish Rough Collie.

Shetland Sheepdog - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Shetland Sheepdog's are loving and loyal. They need lots of companionship and males tend to be more affectionate than females.

2. Behavior:

   They can be wary of strangers and not allow them to touch them. They may also noisily bark at strangers.

3. Habits:

   Shetland Sheepdog's can bark a lot. They also like to chase cars which can be dangerous.

Shetland Sheepdog - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Some health concerns to be aware of are eye disease, hypothyroidism and patella displacement. Be careful not to overfeed this breed as they tend to put on weight easily.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Shetland Sheepdog's need lots of exercise and a safe place to run leash free.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Shetland Sheepdog's need regular brushing. Mist their coat with water first and tease out any mats.

4. Travel Needs:

   For the safety of yourself as well as your Shetland Sheepdog, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Shetland Sheepdog's tend to be suspicious of children but will do fine with those they are raised with. They get along fine with other pets.

Shetland Sheepdog -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.

3. Puppy-proofing your house:

   Keep all small objects out of reach.

4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

   Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.