Sheltie

Size: Medium

Weight: 15 - 25 lbs.

Height: 13" - 16"

Life Span: 12 - 15 years

Health Problems: Eye disorders; deafness; bleeding disorder; heart disease; epilepsy; hypothyroidism; autoimmune skin diseases; hemophilia

Origin: Shetland Islands off Scotland

Also Known As: Shetland Sheepdog. Previously known as Toonie from Norwegian word tun meaning farm

Group: Herding

Category: Companion Dog, Agility Trials, Herding, Obedience Work

Exercise Needs

The Sheltie is happiest with frequent exercise, but will adapt to lesser amounts. This dog needs at least a daily walk, preferably more. A fenced yard is preferred for this breed. Because the Sheltie loves to chase things, it should be leashed when walked.

Grooming Needs

Extensive regular grooming needed for your Sheltie. Its long double coat sheds, and will need brushing 3 times per week or more.

Temperament

The Sheltie is known as one of the smartest breeds, it craves companionship. This breed is eager to please, extremely active, bright, energetic and happy. Shelties are gentle, easy to train dogs that may bark when left alone. These are great dogs for obedience work and make outstanding family pets. Shelties love being an inside pet and chasing cars.

Compatibility with Kids

Good with gentle children, excellent family pet.

History

This breed came to the British Isles in the early 1800s. It was used as a herding dog and often left alone to tend sheep, cattle and ponies. The breed is believed to be the result of crossing Scottish Collies, Yakki dogs of Greenland, and the Spitz.