Shetland Sheepdog

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History/Origin
Shetland Sheepdog, also known as Shetland Collie, Dwarft Scotch Shepherd, Toonie dog, and Apartment Collie, originated in Scotland and is commonly nicknamed as Sheltie. It is originally bred from small sheepdogs intended for the terrains of Shetland Islands. The most common ancestor of this breed is the Rough Collie and other herding dogs.

When the popularity of small dogs in the nineteenth century resulted to several cross-breeding with other smaller dogs like the Pomeranians, the Shetland Sheepdog came to be initially recognized in 1911 by the Kennel Club of England. Ironically, this breed is seldom seen in Shetland where it originally came from.

Description
The Shetland Sheepdog is double coated with fluffy undercoats and guard hairs. This dog breed may exhibit varying colors, however, show colors include sable, blue merle, and tricolor, while bi-colors are also acceptable.
A typical adult may range from 14 inches to 16 inches for males and 14 inches to 18 inches for adult females and could weigh from 16 pounds to 20 pounds (males) and 14 pounds to 18 pounds (females). Like any other dog breed, a female Shetland Sheepdog is normally smaller as compared to its male counterpart.

This breed is normally very playful and loves chasing things. Like any other dog breeds, a Shetland Sheepdog may have inherently acquired health problems like hypothyroidism and other skin allergies. It has the tendency to over eat so it is highly recommended that such dog be kept under close diet monitoring.
The Shetland Sheepdog is generally a neat dog, thus it allows regular grooming sessions and typically enjoys being treated as well. But because of its heavy coat, it require at least two brushing sessions every wee. Moreover, the dog would enjoy grooming and attention especially if that kind of treatment is practiced at the early stage.

Temperament
The Shetland Sheepdog is known for being a companion dog, while it is recognized for its loyalty and favorable temperament. Moreover, it is intelligent and is highly trainable.

It likes to please its master and displays undaunted obedience to commands and courage to protect its owner. This breed, being a pleasant and obedient training student, is a also very affectionate with its master and immediate family members, but can be aloof to strangers and visitors and may not appropriately respond to some petting by individuals unknown to them. However, given ample time, it can easily become comfortable with strangers. On the contrary, it is generally shy and reserved. But, regardless of sex, this dog, as a whole, is a good pet.