Looking for a small to medium sized, highly intelligent dog that is also an excellent watchdog and great with cats? Look no further as Shetland Sheepdog might just be the breed for your needs.
Origin
Also known as Sheltie, the breed is partly derived from dogs used in the Shetland Isles for herding and protecting sheep, and it was formally recognized by The Kennel Club in 1909.
Though their exact early history is not well known, the Sheltie is thought to be a descendant of small specimens of the Scottish Collie and the King Charles Spaniel. The breed was mainly developed to tend the diminutive sheep of the Shetland Islands.
Description
They are very agile, sturdy and their posture and expression convey alertness with a gentle and sometimes reserved nature.
Shelties have a nice double coat. The long, rough coat lies on top of a thick, soft undercoat which provides relief from both high and low temperatures. They come in a variety of colors, such as sable, tri-color, and blue merle.
Shelties are of the brightest dogs out there, ranking 6th out of 132 breeds tested, according to Dr. Stanley Coren, an expert on animal intelligence. They learn incredibly fast and are quite loyal to their masters.
Pros
- Intelligent
- Excellent watchdog
- Adaptable
- Easily trainable
Cons
- Susceptible to hypothyroidism and epilepsy
- Prone to hip dysplasia
- Skin allergies
Should I adopt/buy a Shetland Sheepdog?
If you like intelligent and easily adaptable dogs that will learn new tricks in no time, the Sheltie is definitely a breed to consider.
I totally agree that Shelties are oh so smart, somewhat reserved, very loyal to their masters (sometimes to a fault) gentle and alert and will surly tell them, loudly, when someone comes onto your property. Some are more shy than others depending how they were raised and socialized, especially the rescued ones. They can bark for the tiniest reason especially when they feel they are being left home alone and are protesting. We have had 7 Shelties in a row these past 38 years, sometimes one and other times two. They are so much fun and will give shy kisses… Read more »