Shetland Sheepdog Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is a small herding dog from the Shetland Islands that resembles a miniature Rough Collie. It is bright, sensitive and devoted, and it excels at nearly any dog sport.

Origins and appearance

Shelties developed in the harsh Shetland Islands, where small farm dogs herded sheep and ponies and kept birds out of gardens. They were crossed with Collies and other breeds to reach the modern look. Shelties are small and elegant, with a long, wedge-shaped head, semi-erect ears, a profuse double coat with a ruff and a plume tail, in sable, tricolor, blue merle or bicolor.

Temperament

They are intelligent, loyal and sensitive. They bond closely with family and can be reserved with strangers. They are alert and often bark. They may nip heels in herding behavior. They are generally good with considerate children. Some are shy or anxious without careful socialization, and harsh voices upset them.

Exercise

They need about an hour of daily exercise, with walks, play and training. They excel at agility, obedience, herding and rally. Mental stimulation is as important as physical. Use a leash or secure fence.

Training

They are among the most trainable breeds. Use positive methods, short sessions and plenty of variety. Early socialization prevents shyness. Teach a quiet cue, since barking is common. See how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The double coat needs brushing two or three times a week, daily during seasonal shedding, with special attention behind the ears and on the legs. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• MDR1 gene mutation, which can cause drug sensitivity. See MDR1 gene mutation in dogs
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as collie eye anomaly and progressive retinal atrophy
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Von Willebrand disease. See von Willebrand disease in dogs
• Dermatomyositis, a skin and muscle condition
• Epilepsy

Living with a Shetland Sheepdog

They suit homes and apartments if exercise is met. They do best with attentive owners.

A typical day

A Sheltie wants a morning walk, training, rest, play and an evening outing. They enjoy being near family and having a job.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy and eager. Begin socialization, handling and training. Introduce grooming early. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming tools, training and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include allowing barking to escalate, harsh training, skipping socialization and shaving the coat.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about DNA tests for MDR1 and eye conditions, hip scores and the parents' temperaments.

Barking and sensitivity

A Sheltie's alarm bark can be constant if rewarded with attention. Teach a quiet cue, reduce triggers and offer plenty of exercise. Because many Shelties are sensitive, keep training sessions upbeat and avoid scolding, which can cause anxiety and more barking.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Sheltie suits attentive owners who want a clever, sensitive herding dog and will groom and train. It may not suit those who want a quiet dog or leave the dog alone for long. For a larger relative, see the Rough Collie.

The takeaway

Shelties are bright, loyal and vocal, and they need training, grooming and gentle handling.