Shetland Sheepdog
Also known as Sheltie, and Berger des Shetland in French
- Height at the withers
- 33 to 41 cm
- Weight
- 7 to 11 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12 to 14 years
- Daily activity
- 60 minutes
- Origin
- Shetland Islands, Scotland
- FCI group
- 1 · Sheepdogs and cattle dogs
Who is it for?
Ideal for
- a family with children
- a first dog
- living with a cat
Less suited to
- long absences: it struggles when left alone
- allergy sufferers: it sheds a lot
- noise-sensitive neighbors: it likes to bark
Overview
A small, agile herding dog from the Shetland Islands that looks like a miniature Rough Collie, with a dense double coat, an intelligent expression and an alert bearing. A distinct breed known for its quick mind and docility.
History and origins
Developed on the rugged Shetland Islands of Scotland as a small, hardy herding dog for sheep and ponies in harsh conditions. Created by crossing native dogs with Border Collies, Scotch Collies and possibly Spitz-type dogs.
Health
Life expectancy is 12 to 14 years, and the breed is hardy. The most common health problems in the breed:
- Collie eye anomaly (CEA)
- Dermatomyositis
- Hypothyroidism
- MDR1 drug sensitivity
- von Willebrand disease
Choose a breeder who has the parents health-screened for this breed, and ask to see the results.
Coat and care
Long double coat. Very heavy shedding, high coat care.
All ratings
Rated from 1 to 5, comparable across breeds. Green marks a strength for most households, orange something to plan for.
Lifestyle
- Energy
- High, 4 out of 5
- Apartment
- Possible, 3 out of 5
- Home alone
- Poorly, 2 out of 5
Family and sociability
- With children
- Good, 4 out of 5
- With other dogs
- Good, 4 out of 5
- With cats
- Good, 4 out of 5
- With strangers
- Reserved, 2 out of 5
Training and temperament
- Ease of training
- Very easy, 5 out of 5
- For a first-time owner
- Good fit, 4 out of 5
- Guarding instinct
- Low, 2 out of 5
- Prey drive
- Low, 2 out of 5
- Tendency to roam
- Low, 2 out of 5
Care and neighbors
- Coat care
- High, 4 out of 5
- Shedding
- Very heavy, 5 out of 5
- Drooling
- Never, 1 out of 5
- Barking
- Very vocal, 5 out of 5
Climate and health
- Heat tolerance
- Average, 3 out of 5
- Cold tolerance
- Good, 4 out of 5
- Hardiness
- Good, 4 out of 5
In our lists
Shetland Sheepdog FAQ
How big does the Shetland Sheepdog get?
The Shetland Sheepdog stands 33 to 41 cm at the withers and weighs 7 to 11 kg. It is a small dog.
Does the Shetland Sheepdog shed a lot?
It sheds very heavily and its coat needs a lot of care. Plan on brushing several times a week, and more during the spring and fall shedding seasons. Its coat needs regular grooming, sometimes by a professional.
Can the Shetland Sheepdog live in an apartment?
It can, as long as it gets real outings every day; a yard is still a plus. Mind the neighbors: it barks readily.
How much exercise does the Shetland Sheepdog need each day?
Allow about 60 minutes of activity a day: its energy is high. Add games and training exercises to keep its mind busy too.
Is the Shetland Sheepdog good with children?
Yes, it gets along well with children who respect it. Never leave a young child alone with a dog, whatever the breed.
How long does the Shetland Sheepdog live?
Life expectancy is 12 to 14 years, and the breed is hardy. The main health problems to watch for are Collie eye anomaly and dermatomyositis.
