The Shetland Sheepdog or "Sheltie" is not a miniature collie as so often called. They resemble a collie in miniature but were not bred down from collies. They originated on the Shetland Islands. They were used to herd the Shetland sheep. These herding dogs were selected for their ability to work, stamina, courage and intelligence. Their physical appearance remained varied as they were working dogs. their size was much smaller than the shelties of today and their coat was not as abundant. since the Shetland islands were isolated, shelties were little known until the early 20th century. Size and type were so varied that collie crosses were introduced to improve the "collie in miniature." It is thought that the sheltie originated from the Greenland yakki dogs, the King Charles spaniel aand both the Welsh and Scotch working collie. The first sheltie came to America in 1910. Due to WWI, they really were not bred much until the mid 1920's. The American Shetland Sheepdog Association was formed in 1929 and banned collie crosses. Size continued to plague the breed. ASSA revised their standard to limit shelties to 13 to 16 inches at the shoulder and disqualify shelties above or below this height.
Sheltie Characteristics
General appearance: The sheltie is a small, alert, rough-coated longhaired working dog. He must be sound, agile and sturdy. The outline should be so symmetrical that no part appears out of proportion to the shole. Dogs should appear masculine; bitches feminine. Expression is alert, intelligent and questioning. The sheltie should appear as an elegant, balanced dog. His gait should be lively and flowing with ground covering stride. his head should be a blunt wedge tapering slightly from the skull to muzzle. his eyes should be almond shaped and dark except blue eyes or merled eyes are acceptable in blue merles only. His ears should be small, placed high and tipped.
Size: 13 to 16 inches at the withers
Colors: Black, blue merle or sable with white and/or tan markings
Coat: Double coat. The outer coat being long and harsh. The undercoat short and dense. Fur abundant on main and frill, especially impressive in males. Forelegs should be feathered.
Temperament: Shelties are very loyal, affectionate, happy, lively and willing to please their owners. They also may be reserved toward strangers but not timid, fearful or aggressive.
Health: Shelties are a relatively healthy breed. They usually live around 14 years. There are some genetic medical conditions that can crop in the breed. The conditions are collie eye anomaly, sheltie eye syndrome, progressive retinal atrophy, central progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, sheltie skin syndrome and Von Willebrand's diseases. Reputable breeders have eliminated these diseases from their stock.
For the complete standard, see the AKC shetland sheepdog standard.
