Shetland Sheepdog
Tricolor Sheltie
Alternative names
Sheltie
Country of origin
United Kingdom
Classification
FCI: Group 1 Section 1 AKC: Herding ANKC: Group 5 (Working Dogs) CKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs KC(UK): Pastoral NZKC: Working
Breed standards (external links)
FCI, AKC, ANKC, KC(UK), NZKC

The Shetland Sheepdog (or Sheltie) is a breed of dog, originally bred to be sheep dogs. It resembles a miniature Rough Collie; as a breed, however, it is unrelated to the Collie, but is instead a cross between the Norwegian Buhund and the Icelandic sheepdog.

This blue merle sheltie is a dog agility champion.

Shelties are known for their loyalty and obedience to their masters. They are friendly and affectionate, but reserved around strangers. In their size group, the breed dominates dog agility competitions.

Several coat colors exist. The best-known are the sable and white (golden-tan with white underneath) and tricolor (black on top, white underneath, with tan between), although blue merle, red merle, and other colors are acceptable.

Sable and white shelties at one and half years and at 6 months. Professional grooming typically gives a fluffier coat than these. The puppy has a transitional "puppy fuzz" coat.

External links

• American Shetland Sheepdog Association
• Shetland Sheepdogs FAQ
• The Sheltie Page at Dogpatch
• Shetland Sheepdog WebRing