The Pet Sitter
Dog Breed

Shetland Sheepdog

intelligent • gentle • eager • responsive

OriginScotland (Shetland Islands)
Lifespan12-14 years
Weight6-12 kg
Energy Levelhigh

Quick Stats

Sizesmall
Weight6-12 kg
Lifespan12-14 years
Energy Levelhigh
Groominghigh
Trainabilityeasy
OriginScotland (Shetland Islands)
Temperament
intelligentgentleeagerresponsive

Overview

The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, looks like a miniature Collie and shares many of the same wonderful qualities. These highly intelligent, gentle dogs are among the most trainable breeds and excel in obedience, agility, and as devoted family companions.

Compatibility

Children
Excellent
Other Dogs
Good
Cats
Good
Apartment Living
Good

Care Guide

Shelties need regular grooming for their abundant double coat and plenty of mental stimulation. They can be reserved with strangers and may bark at perceived threats. Early socialisation helps build confidence.

Exercise Needs

At least 1 hour of daily exercise including walks, play, and training activities.

Grooming

Brush 2-3 times weekly, daily during shedding. Their double coat needs regular attention to prevent matting, especially behind the ears.

Health Concerns

collie eye anomaly
hip dysplasia
dermatomyositis
von Willebrand's disease

Fun Facts

🐶Shelties are the sixth most intelligent dog breed.
🐶Despite looking like mini Collies, they are a distinct breed developed on the Shetland Islands.
🐶They are nicknamed "Shadow" because they follow their owners so closely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Shelties good family dogs?
Excellent family dogs. They are gentle with children, intelligent, and deeply devoted to their families.
Do Shelties bark a lot?
They can be vocal. As herding dogs, alerting through barking is natural. Training helps manage excessive barking.
Are Shelties the same as Collies?
No, they are a distinct breed. While they resemble miniature Rough Collies, Shelties have their own breed standard and history.
Are Shelties easy to train?
Among the easiest breeds to train. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them exceptional students.

Similar Breeds

🐶

Border Collie

medium • very-high energy

🐶

Australian Shepherd

medium • very-high energy

🐶

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

small • high energy

🐶

Papillon

small • moderate energy

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