Something I’ve planned on doing with this blog is highlighting a different breed of dog every month. The history, care, breed standard, and pictures and videos will be featured. Since January marks the two year anniversary of my beloved little Sheltie boy’s venture to doggy heaven, I thought it only fitting for the Shetland Sheepdog to be the first to appear as a Breed Spotlight.
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| Tam O'Shanter April 1998 - January 2011  |
Breed: Shetland
Sheepdog
Place of Origin: Shetland Islands
Group: Herding
Place of Origin: Shetland Islands
Group: Herding
History – Although
many people think that Shetland Sheepdogs, often called “Shelties”, are
miniature Collies, they are actually a breed of their own. There is no doubt
that Collies, along with other herding dogs, played a huge role in forming the
breed. Indicative of the name, Shetland Sheepdogs originated on the Shetland
Islands. Although the English Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1909 as “Shetland
Collies”, it was not until 1914 that breeders of true Collies helped to push
for Shelties to be recognized as their own breed. The American Kennel Club registered
the first Sheltie in 1911, “Lord Scott.” John Sherman, Jr. of New York acquired
him from Shetland.
Purpose—As
one might assume, the Shetland Sheepdog is often the right-hand partner of
farmers of various kinds. From cows to sheep to chickens, even people (yes, a
Sheltie will try to herd you, too!), the vocational purpose of the breed is
innate to them. Although herding is a natural behavior to Shelties, shepherds and farmers
will often spend months and years training and perfecting the work and bond of both
dog and man. When done right, the relationship is truly a partnership and a
beautiful performance of grace, trust, and obedience to watch.
Nowadays, the need for a herding companion has dwindled and
Shelties have proven themselves worthy in many other respects. They excel as
agility and obedience dogs. There are also sheep herding shows and
competitions, and one can expect how they shine in their original purpose. They also
make wonderful companion and therapy dogs, as well as loving pets and additions
to families.
Personality—Shelties
are loving, family oriented dogs. They are highly intelligent and easy to
train. Although they are small enough to live in an apartment, their trademark high-pitched,
sometimes persistent barking, can make for unhappy neighbors and displeased owners.
Shelties can be shy of strangers, and may be a little “sneaky” at times. As
with all popular breeds, Shelties have unfortunately been subjected to arbitrary
breeding. This has lead to an influx of unstable temperaments and several
health problems in the breed. When considering any dog, it is extremely
important to not only match your lifestyle to the right breed, but research and
select the right breeder.
Shelties are smart, there is no doubt, but they are also
very sensitive. Training should start early, but they do not respond well to a
harsh approach (what dog does?). Love and patience should be your constant
companions when training any dog.
Health – The
average lifespan of a Sheltie is 12 to 15 years. Although they can live active,
healthy lives, they have several health concerns.
“Breed health concerns may
include Collie eye anomaly, dermatomyositis, hemophilia, hip dysplasia,
hypothyroidism,
hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, von Willebrand’s
disease, Legg-Calve-Perthes
disease, carpal ligament weakening, polyarthritis, nasal cavity
tumors, congenital
deafness, entropion,
distichiasis, corneal dystrophy, cataracts,
cryptorchidism,
testicular neoplasia, MDR-1 gene mutation, patent ductus
arteriosus, progressive
retinal atrophy and seizures.
This breed is expecially sensitive to ivermectin and milbemycin.”
- PetWave
As with any dog, it is important to stay current on vet
check ups and shots, supply ample exercise, feed a nutritious dog food, and pay attention. Even
when being a good parent, some things are unavoidable. Research, educate
yourself, be responsible, and show a lot of love. You will be rewarded in
return.
Look – Holding
a close resemblance to the Collie, Sheltie’s heads are wedge-shaped. Their
almond shaped eyes are alert and bright. Small ears are erect, but often “tipped”
by way of gluing the ear tips down as puppies.
Shelties boast of grace and
beauty. Their long, silky coats beg for back and belly scratches. Their lion-like
mane is regal and distinct. Sheltie’s have two base colors: Black or Sable.
Genes dictate what color combinations and markings they will have.
No surprise — Shelties
need a lot of grooming—it’s best if they can be brushed every day. They are especially
prone to getting matted knots around their ears, and below their armpits,
though Sheltie’s have a plethora of opportunity for tangles in their abundant
coats. Below is a chart depicting Sheltie coat colors.
Full grown, Shelties are generally between 13 and 16 inches
at the shoulders, and generally weigh between 14 and 25 pounds.
Pictures Below – From PetWave
Wags,Whitney
