Shetland Sheepdog
Updated December 2, 2025
The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is essentially a smaller version of the Rough Collie. They are intensely loyal, affectionate, and responsive, making them a beloved family pet. Their intelligence and agility make them stars in obedience, herding, and agility trials.
Intelligent, Lively, Responsive, Loyal, Alert, Reserved, Affectionate, Active, Gentle, Eager, Trainable, Playful
14-20 pounds
13-16 inches
12-14 years
Black & White, Black, White & Tan, Blue Merle & White, Blue Merle, White & Tan, Sable & White, Sable, White & Tan
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is essentially a smaller version of the Rough Collie. They are intensely loyal, affectionate, and responsive, making them a beloved family pet. Their intelligence and agility make them stars in obedience, herding, and agility trials.
What Makes Shetland Sheepdogs Special
The Shetland Sheepdog is a miniature working collie, known for its stunning beauty, intelligence, and gentle nature. They are loyal and affectionate family companions that excel in various canine activities.
Shetland Sheepdog History & Origin
The Shetland Sheepdog hails from the rugged Shetland Islands of Scotland, where they were used as all-purpose farm dogs, herding sheep, and guarding property. They are likely a mix of the Border Collie and other smaller, long-haired breeds.
The breed was developed to be a small herding dog capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of the Shetland Islands.
They were first recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1909.
The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1911.
The breed's name was officially changed from 'Shetland Collie' to 'Shetland Sheepdog' to avoid conflict with Rough Collie breeders.
Shetland Sheepdog Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Shetland Sheepdog Appearance
The Shetland Sheepdog is a small, long-haired working dog of great beauty. They are strong and agile yet refined. Their expression is gentle, intelligent, and questioning.
Physical Features
Ears
Small and flexible, set high on the head, carried three-fourths erect with the top tipping forward when alert.
Eyes
Medium size with dark, almond-shaped rims, set somewhat obliquely in the skull. Color must be dark, with blue or merle eyes permissible in blue merles.
Nose
Must be black.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is double, with the outer coat consisting of long, harsh, straight hair, while the undercoat is short, furry, and very dense.
Coat Color
The recognized colors are black, blue merle, and sable, marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan.
Tail
The tail is feathered and should be long enough to reach the hock joint. It is carried straight down or in a slight upward curve.
Shetland Sheepdog Temperament
The Shetland Sheepdog is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and eagerness to please, making it a highly trainable companion.
They are gentle and affectionate with their families but can be reserved or shy around strangers, a trait of their herding ancestry.
Shelties are playful and energetic, requiring regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues like excessive barking.
Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, as they are quick to bark to announce visitors or unusual sounds.
Despite their small size, they have a big-dog personality and thrive on being involved in family activities.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Shelties are generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-14 years. However, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Responsible breeders will screen for genetic conditions. Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise are key to a long and healthy life.
How to Care for a Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent and active dogs that require regular grooming, exercise, and mental stimulation to thrive. Their beautiful double coat needs frequent brushing to prevent matting, and they benefit from consistent training and socialization.
Grooming
The Sheltie's long, dense double coat requires brushing several times a week to remove loose hair and prevent mats, especially behind the ears, under the elbows, and on the hindquarters.
They are heavy shedders, particularly during seasonal changes in spring and fall, when daily brushing may be necessary.
Bathing should be done as needed. Over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.
Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine.
Training
Shelties are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easy to train. They excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.
Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, are most effective. They can be sensitive, so harsh training techniques should be avoided.
Early socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults and to manage their natural wariness of strangers.
Diet
A high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, senior) and activity level is recommended.
The daily amount of food can range from 3/4 to 2 cups, divided into two meals.
Monitor their weight to prevent obesity, which can lead to health problems. Adjust food portions based on their metabolism and exercise level.
Exercise
Shelties are an energetic breed that requires at least an hour of exercise daily. This can include walks, jogging, and vigorous playtime.
They thrive on activities that engage both their mind and body, such as herding trials, agility courses, and interactive games.
A securely fenced yard is ideal to allow them to run and play safely.
Environment
Shetland Sheepdogs can adapt to various living situations, including apartments, as long as their exercise needs are met.
However, they do best in a home with a yard where they can run.
They are vocal dogs and may bark frequently, which is a consideration for apartment living.
They thrive on companionship and do not like to be left alone for long periods.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a fenced yard is ideal, but they can adapt to apartment living with enough exercise.
Climate Adaptability
Prefers cooler climates due to their thick coat but can adapt to warmer weather.
Apartment Living
Can live in an apartment if their high exercise and mental stimulation needs are met.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active owners or families who can provide them with the physical and mental challenges they need.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shetland Sheepdogs good family dogs?
Yes, Shelties are known to be excellent family dogs. They are gentle, affectionate, and protective of their families.
Do Shetland Sheepdogs shed a lot?
Yes, Shetland Sheepdogs are heavy shedders, especially during their seasonal shedding periods in the spring and fall.
How much exercise does a Shetland Sheepdog need?
They are an active breed and require at least an hour of daily exercise, including walks, runs, and playtime.
Are Shetland Sheepdogs easy to train?
Yes, their high intelligence and eagerness to please make them one of the easiest breeds to train.
Do Shetland Sheepdogs bark a lot?
Yes, Shelties are known for being vocal and will bark to alert their owners to anything they find unusual. Training can help manage excessive barking.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization and puppy training classes are essential. Provide a diet formulated for small to medium-sized puppies.
Senior Care
May require a diet lower in calories and joint supplements. Adjust exercise to their ability and monitor for age-related health issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
A good choice for first-time owners who are active and willing to dedicate time to training and grooming.
Looking for a Shetland Sheepdog?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.