History and origin

Sky and Beauty in the sunset

The Shetland collie was first bred on the Shetland islands from the 19th century onwards. Their task was keeping the cattle away from the few meagre fields. Since they were supposed to live in the hut with the farmer they had to be small. As the farmer was usually poor, they had to be unpretentious and undemanding. The hard weather conditions made them robust. Nordic and Pomeranian like dogs belonged to their ancestors. Because of their enjoyable positive qualities the popularity of the Shetland collie increased. The first Sheltieclub (= Shetland Sheepdog, Shetland collie) was founded in England on 28.08.1908. The year 1909 marked the initial recognition of the Sheltie by the English Kennel Club. The breed was officially recognized in 1914.

From the beginning the Sheltie has been blessed with all their most important qualities: They are vocal, excitable, energetic dogs who are always willing to please and work hard. They are known for their devotion for their owners and their reservation towards strangers.

Intelligence

Candy in sunset

If there are easy to train dogs – than it is the Sheltie. Their extraordinary intelligence makes training them very easy.

Because of their intelligence our bitches love challenges. All day long without occupation - no thank you. When we are not at home and "Madame” Sky gets bored, her creativity does not know any limits. You are not able to imagine what a little dog is able to do with a single toilet roll.

In general that means, that the intelligence of Shelties wants to be called upon. But they are not as demanding as e.g. Border collies, which need some hours of real work every day.

However, their distinctive sensibility asks for different training methods. It is their biggest reward besides the obligatory candies to love their master. It is a real punishment for them, if they get reprimanded. Therefore beating them is completely unnecessary. A sharp word is enough, to show Shelties their limits. Praise of their master motivates them more than anything else.

For whom is a Sheltie suitable?

Sky with her daughters Beauty and Heaven

Sky - Beauty - Heaven

Because of their character a Sheltie can be a loving companion for anyone. They are cut out for all kind of dog sports because of their high intelligence.

But there are also demands: You have to satisfy a Sheltie's needs for mental and physical exercise daily.

However because of their small size they are unsuitable to be guard dogs, even though they would defend you if necessary.