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Shetland Sheepdog Facts Life Expectancy: 11 years Size: 14-15in Noise: Talkative Common Health Problems: Eye problems, dermatomyositis (Sheltie disease) Breed Recognized By: AKC, CKC, FCI, KC Alternate Names: Sheltie, Miniature Collie Friendliness | Very friendly to family members, wary of strangers, tolerates small animals | Grooming | High maintenance | Energy | High, requires a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise or a few miles daily | Trainability | Very trainable and eager to please | Shetland Sheepdogs, or “Shelties” as they are more commonly known, were probably created by crossing Rough coated collies with small dogs of the Shetland Islands north of Scotland. Although they might look like a toy dog bred for companionship, Shelties are working dogs that are still used to drive cattle today. Shelties are very affectionate and loyal to their families. Shelties can make good companions for children if they are raised with them, but older Shelties may have trouble adjusting to life with rowdy kids. Shelties are naturally wary of strangers and should be well socialized to prevent fearfulness or aggression towards new people. Shelties were originally bred to live on farms with many other types of animals and tolerate other pets well. Shelties have thick, long coats with pronounced manes and feathering on the legs. Daily grooming is essential to keeping the Sheltie’s luxurious coat neat and free of painful tangles and mats. Some trimming around the ears and paws is also necessary. Shelties have a very strong herding instinct and need to be kept busy or they may become mischievous or destructive. Shelties do best when given a job to do, whether it be keeping squirrels away from the garden or playing agility games. Although Shelties can get the exercise they need from a vigorous walk, they also should be given the chance to run off leash in a large, fenced area on a regular basis. Shelties that don’t get enough exercise may begin herding children or adults be chasing and nipping at heels. Shelties are extremely intelligent and enjoy playing all sorts of games with their owners. Shelties love training because it gives them a chance to use their minds. Any owner who is willing to put forth a little effort in training a Sheltie will be highly rewarded.
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