Our Shetland Sheepdogs
** History **
The ancestors of the Shetland Sheepdog were herding dogs of Scotland that also provided the root stock of the Collie and Border Collie.Some of these dogs were quite small,measuring only about 18 inches in height.The Shetland Sheepdog almost certainly is derived from these early Collie type dogs,which then further developed on the Shetland Islands.Some Iceland dogs may also have a played role, and perhaps even a black and tan King Charles Spaniel. The paucity of vegetation favored smaller livestock,and the animala need to herd them were proportionately smaller.In land with a few fences, and adept herder was essential to keep livestock away from cultivated land.As an all-around farm dog,they herded not only sheep but also ponies and chickens.In some remote areas,it was customary to keep all animals in the family's home building during the winter,and amiable hearding dog no doubt worked it way right into the family part of home. Because of their isolation from the rest of the world,the breed was able to breed true in the comparatively short time. The British naval fleet used to frequent the islands for maneuvers,and often bought puppies to take home to England.Early dogs were referred to as Toonie dogs ( Toon being the local Shetland word for farm ),but they were initially shown ( around 1906 ) as Shetland Collies. Collie fanciers objected to the name,so it was changed to the Shetland Sheepdog. The breed is far more often referred by it's nickname " Sheltie," however.In the early years in England breeders often discreetly crossed Shelties with rough - coated Collies in an attempt to improve on their Collie characteristics. This practice led to oversized Shelties,howver,and has long since stopped. Following the immense popularity of the Collie, the Sheltie became the answer to the family wanting a long striking pet of smaller size, and is one of the most popular breeds of the world.
** Temperament **
The Shetland Sheepdog is extremely bright,
extremely sensitive, and extremely willing to please.This combination makes for a dog that is very obedient,quick to learn, and utterly devoted to its family.It is not only gentle,playful,amiable,and companionable,but also excellent with children,although it can nip at heels in play.It is reserved and often timid toward strangers.It barks a lot.
Suggested tests:eye,hip,thyroid,DNA for vWD
Life Span : 12-14 yrs
Weight = varies,but more common around 20 lbs
Height = varies,but more common around 13-16 "
Colors : black,blue merle,and sable,marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan.
*** NOTE ***
May be senstive to ivermectin.Merles should not be bred to merles because homozygous merle is lethal or detrimental to health.
Date(s): April 30, 2006. 1 - 2 of 2 Total. Shared |
|
|
| 1.
Our Sheltie Dams (May 17, 2006)We currently have a 1 blk/wht,2 sable/wht,1 blk tri & 1 blue tri merle.
Nakoma, is the daughter to Gracie & Lassie is the daughter to Cookie... Sunnie related several generations back to Lassie & Cookie... |
| 5 Albums
Shared Folder | |
| |
| 2.
Our Sheltie Studs (May 17, 2006)| Our Sheltie Stud is AKC reg, Bi Blk & Blue Tri Merle... |
| 3 Albums
Shared Folder | |
| |
