A small, brilliant herder with a collie's grace.
Origin
Scotland (Shetland Islands)
Height
13–16 in (33–41 cm)
Weight
15–25 lb (7–11 kg)
Lifespan
12–14 years
Coat
Long, dense, feathered double coat
Energy
High
Overview
The Shetland Sheepdog — the “Sheltie” — is a small herding breed resembling a miniature Rough Collie, developed on Scotland's rugged Shetland Islands to work small livestock. Agile and elegant, it is one of the most trainable of all breeds.
Bright, sensitive, and devoted, the Sheltie bonds intensely with its family and excels at obedience and agility. It is an alert, sometimes vocal watchdog that thrives on training and activity, and it can be reserved with strangers.
History
Developed on the Shetland Islands to herd and guard sheep, ponies, and poultry in a harsh environment, the Sheltie descends from collie-type dogs. Its intelligence and biddability made it a star in obedience and herding trials.
Where it comes from
Scotland (Shetland Islands)
Highlighted in the Shetland Sheepdog's lineage color on the map.
Temperament
The Sheltie is quick to learn, affectionate, and eager to please, generally reserved with strangers. It is sensitive and can be vocal, thriving on training, activity, and companionship, and responding best to gentle methods.
Health to watch
This inherited eye disorder occurs in the breed; genetic testing and eye exams identify affected dogs.
A gene variant makes some Shelties sensitive to certain drugs; a DNA test guides safe medication choices.
Joint malformation and thyroid issues occur; screening and monitoring help manage them.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every dog is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
The long double coat needs brushing several times a week and more during seasonal sheds.
This highly intelligent herder thrives on training and games; boredom leads to barking and mischief.
Daily activity keeps the Sheltie fit and satisfies its energetic, working nature.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.