Shetland Sheepdog

About Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog, often known as the Sheltie, is a breed of herding dog that originated in the Shetland Islands of Scotland. The original name was Shetland Collie, but this caused controversy amongst Rough Collie breeders, so the breed's name was formally changed. This diligent small dog is clever, vocal, excitable, and willing to please. They are incredibly trustworthy to their owners to the point where they are often referred to as "shadows" due to their attachment to family. This breed was formally recognized by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1909.

Like the Shetland pony, Shetland cattle, and the Shetland sheep, the Shetland Sheepdog is a hardy, but diminutive breed developed to thrive amidst the harsh and meager conditions of its native islands. While the Sheltie still excels at herding, today, it is often raised as a working dog and family pet.

The Sheltie's origins are obscure, but it is not a direct descendant of the Rough Collie, which it largely resembles. Instead, the Sheltie is a descendant of small specimens of the Scottish Collie and King Charles Spaniel. They were initially a small mixed-breed dog, often only about 20 to 30 centimeters (8 to 12 inches) in height at the shoulder. It is thought that the original Shetland herding dogs were of the Spitz type were crossed with Collies from mainland Britain. In the early 20th century, James Loggie added a small Rough Collie to the breeding stock and helped establish the breed that would become the modern Shetland Sheepdog.

When the breed was initially introduced, breeders called them Shetland Collies, which upset Rough Collie breeders, so the name was changed to Shetland Sheepdog. Shelties have a high level of intelligence. According to Dr. Stanley Coren, an expert on animal intelligence, the Shetland Sheepdog is one of the brightest dogs, ranking 6th out of 138 breeds tested.

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