Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, was developed on the remote Shetland Islands of Scotland as a small herding dog capable of working in the island's harsh climate and rocky terrain, descended from Rough Collies and other small working dogs. It is renowned for its exceptional intelligence and trainability, consistently ranking among the top breeds in obedience competitions, and forms intensely loyal bonds with its family while tending toward reserved behavior with strangers. The breed is characterized by its abundant, flowing double coat, elegant wedge-shaped head, and its natural herding instinct, which may manifest as a tendency to chase and circle moving objects.

Physical Traits