Perhaps, one of the most mysterious dog breeds around the world is the Shetland Sheepdog or simply known as the Sheltie, because of its undistinguished origin and reasons behind its intriguing temperament. This breed is a tiny creature that formerly strived on the rocky terrains of Shetland Island in Scotland. Its appearance resembles that of a Collie only it was never intentionally bred to look as such.

It is concluded that the main contributors for the development of the Sheltie are the Scottish Rough Collie, Pomeranian, Greenland Yakki (now extinct), and the King Charles Spaniel. During it’s prominence in Shetland Island, this little breed was believed to do herding tasks just like any other Collies. It was discovered though that while its larger look-alike herded stocks, this breed did the chasing and herding of smaller creatures such as ducks, squirrels and vermin.

Today, the Sheltie is a well-known family pet and companion and it excels in this field outstandingly. Moreover, additional likeable disposition of the Sheltie is its eagerness to please the master, obedience and extreme loyalty. With proper and correct training, the Sheltie is a potential skillful dog and reliable household companion.

It is natural for the Sheltie to shy away from strangers but through proper exposure during its pupppyhood, this aloof temperament can be altered to become sociable and accepting. Moreover, the Sheltie can become a potential buddy to children and so constant exposure and guidance on both sides are essential, for them to be able to treat each other safely and properly. This breed makes an excellent watchdog for it warns the household of an incoming person in the doorway or a car in the driveway.

Even though the Sheltie has never been bred to become herders, it still possesses a natural herding instinct and this brings puzzlement to a lot of breeders. This herding energy should be released through various activities such as running and chasing in a wide area. Doing this will also help the Sheltie become healthy and fit mentally and physically.

Generally, the Sheltie stands 13 to 16 inches in height and weighs 14 to 27 pounds. Its long and thick coat consists of an upper coat that serves as a guard hair and an undercoat that serves as comfort against hot or cold temperatures. The outer coat is thick, long and coarse and is water-repellant while the undercoat is soft and shorter.

The general colors of the Sheltie are sable, tri-colour and blue merle. The sable is either golden or mahogany and the tri-colour is white, black and tan. The blue merle is composed of grey, white, black and tan.

In 1909, the English Kennel Club first registered the Sheltie. In 1911, the first Sheltie was registered in the American Kennel Club named Lord Scott. The Sheltie is an adorable and fascinating little breed and because of these and its many positive features, it became a favorite of many families around the world.

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