The Shetland Sheepdog came about in the Shetland Islands off the northern coast of Scotland. They were used to keep the flocks of sheep together and herd them through the rough terrain. Even further back in Neolithic times, 3500 to 2000 B.C. there were collie-type northern sheepdogs finding their way south into the Mediterranean countries. Finally they came to the British Isles by way of merchant traders. Farther back even than this there is evidence of collie-type dogs descended from Asian wolves. All this making the dogs genetically predisposed to herding.

After the collie-type dogs were settled in England and Scotland, farmers of the Shetland Islands were using dogs to herd their flocks. They had dogs that they called “Toonies”. They were very impressed with the collie dogs that they found when visiting the mainlands. They decided to use them in the improvement of their Toonies. They wanted to incorporate the intelligence and dedication of those beautiful big collie-type dogs. But they really needed a smaller sized dog than the collie as the Shetland Sheep are one-half the size of the black faced sheep of Scotland. They were much impressed with the small dog that arrived to the Island by way of a yacht. It was a little black and tan King Charles Spaniel. This is the other dog that seems to have had a very BIG influence in what we now know as The Shetland Sheepdog “Sheltie”.

Our beloved Shelties still carry with them the strong herding instinct and the protective nature of their ancestors. It is not unusual to see them herding groups of children and always like their family to be together in “flock” fashion. They are very loyal and extremely intelligent dogs who love to be with their people. Their small size makes them perfect for large or small homes. They are small but look just like their big Collie cousins. These dogs are very easy to train and will always want to please their owners. They excel in obedience as well as sports such as Agility and Fly Ball. They do need daily exercise but are not extremely high energy dogs. A daily walk around the neighborhood or a game of fetch will keep them happy.

Grooming consist of weekly brushing and combing and monthly bathing with a good quality dog shampoo. They shed out twice a year and will need to be brushed daily during this time. However, they are not constant shedders.

In short the Sheltie is a wonderful family dog who will cherish you and want to be in your home at your feet to make your family complete.