This article was originally published in Showsight Magazine, March 2014 issue.
Shetland Sheepdogs
The Shetland sheepdog, often called the “toonie or town dog”, originated in the Shetland Islands off Scotland. Frequently referred to as a “miniature collie”, the sheltie may appear a reduced version of its ancestor the collie, but the collie and sheltie have diverse temperaments. It is up to individual preference which breed one chooses for their companion. Initially, the Shetland sheepdog was the size of a large house cat and was called a “pixie” or “fairy” dog. Their genetic background includes the Greenland Yakki dog, the King Charles spaniel, the Welsh and Scottish collie, and possibly the Pomeranian. Upon occasion, one may see prick or drooping ears, curly tails, wavy coats, or spaniel spots. This comes from the disparity of the sheltie’s background.
However, neither size nor genetic irregularities affect the Shetland sheepdog’s ability to charm or its adaptability to perform many required tasks. The Shetland sheepdog can be a lap dog or a jogging companion. Originally, the Shetland sheepdog was used for protection and droving. Accustomed to mist and sea-level climates, the sheltie’s sense of responsibility, courage, stamina, agility, and intelligence was greatly admired. Their thick double coat protected them from extreme elements and rough terrain. The rugged climate and sparse vegetation of the islands produced sheep, cattle, and ponies of diminutive sizes. Although the crofter’s habitat and resources were limited, they valued the smaller dogs. The sheltie served as an efficient herder and fireside companion. This double-coated, sturdy breed can exist inside or outside, although their preference is the family unit. They should never be tied out and they require a fenced yard for safety due to their “herding” instinct.
They herd children, cars, bicycles, squirrels, and love to play ball. The sweet sheltie expression and flowing coat is something to behold. Their beauty and grace comes naturally; exuberant at times, they are polite and clean about themselves and are easily housebroken. Shelties do not constantly shed, but do “blow coat” seasonally. Spayed and neutered pets tend to hold coat longer. Brushing is required. However, started early, shelties enjoy the attention. Once the undercoat is removed, the coat will then grow back in for the next few months with little shedding. Unlike short-coated dogs that tend to shed all year long, the blowing coat yearly is a positive. Proper care makes for a happy, healthy sheltie. Shetland Sheepdogs are exceptionally smart.
One might say they are “people readers”. They aim to please, are easily trained, and adapt to most situations. If one has young children, it’s best to purchase a puppy. Older dogs adjust to seniors easily, but shelties are somewhat reserved in a new situation. If one is fortunate enough to adopt a retired show dog, they will be rewarded with a perfect companion. Shelties are very sensitive and, if mistreated, will choose to avoid the person who corrects them in anger. Most are unforgiving. However, once they accept a new person, their affinity for your moods is reflected in their desire to be what you need them to be at a specific time. They have been known to grieve for the passing of a loved one and, being pack-oriented, will also grieve the loss of a kennel mate. Shelties are protectors and bark to alert when something appears awry.
Being somewhat territorial, they have keen boundary awareness. Their uncanny sense of identifying problems is still engaged today, and one can be well served to listen to what their sheltie has to say. Shelties are versatile. They excel in agility, obedience, rally, herding, tracking, and in the conformation ring. The current standard calls for the size of over 13″-16″ at the shoulder. Dogs larger or smaller fall into a disqualification regarding the UK and AKC conformation events; however, inches have little to do with the size of their heart. Within a controlled area, they are an excellent farm dog. Loyal, playful, and dedicated to their owner, the most rewarding aspect of the breed is “they are ever youthful”! Most think they are a “little person in a fur coat” and admittedly, this has a certain charm. Puppy pranks and antics are a part of old age, and correction of younger kennel mates is their mission.
Shelties passing the Good Citizenship Award work in therapy, nursing homes, hospitals, and adapt well with children. Some are used as “hearing ear” dogs, seizure dogs, and others fill the bill without training. Their beauty, compliance, and affectionate nature make them “crowd pleasers,” and they have immense “curb appeal.” One very important sheltie is currently used in psychotherapy. “Jake,” as he is known, provides warmth and acceptance to patients who have been hurt by words or other humans. Jake is intuitive and different with each patient and provides attentive eyes and non-judgmental ears. He can be quiet and compassionate or interactive, as he has no vanity or ambition and is not concerned with role or status. Free of intellectual pretensions, Jake does not fear emotion. Therefore, he serves as a bridge that connects his therapist with uncooperative and uncommunicative persons.
Upset adults and children change from tears to smiles when emotional defenses soften. This particular sheltie is so successful that other psychotherapy clinicians request him for their patients. Earning a dual description, Jake is known as a “security blanket” and “ice breaker.” Other animals work in this field, but shelties are described as awesome with depressed and anxious individuals. They evoke loving feelings with their uncritical acceptance. The Shetland sheepdog is a joyful, captivating breed. Some shelties may be barkers. Therefore, when buying a sheltie, one should ask to see the parents and watch the interaction with both the owners and the kennel mates. They easily accept other breeds, but should not be put with aggressive working breeds. Having lived with this breed over fifty years and having owned a variety of other breeds, I must say the Shetland sheepdog breed owns my heart.
Their beauty and antics fill my eye and lift my spirit. Their effervescent personality is a fit for anyone who wants a true companion. When it comes to the Shetland sheepdog, my life would be dull without one by my side. For those who desire a small, dedicated, gentle, responsible pet, the Shetland sheepdog comes in a variety of colors. Affiliation with the breed has introduced me to a wealth of friends and offered many diverse opportunities. Their soft paw and gentle expression cannot be denied, and their doggy snores bring comfort during the night. The bottom line is: when it comes to a Shetland sheepdog, “What’s not to love?” For a deeper understanding of this delightful breed: Refer to Sheltie Talk, Alpine Publications, Loveland, Colorado.
