Small, long haired, working dog of great beauty, free from
cloddiness and coarseness. Outline symmetrical so that no part appears out of proportion
to whole. Abundant coat, mane and frill, shapeliness of head and sweetness of expression
combine to present the ideal.
Characteristics
Alert, gentle, intelligent, strong and active.
Temperament
Affectionate and responsive to his owner, reserved towards strangers,
never nervous.
History
Sometime around 900 A.D., the islands off the coast of Scotland were
colonized by Norse people who brought with them the ancestors of the
Shetland Sheepdog. These ancestors were Spitz-type dogs, probably similar
in type to today's Iceland Dog and the Swedish Vallhund. Over time, the
Shetland islanders developed a small, highly intelligent dog, capable of herding
with little or no supervision. The island's harsh climate required a hardy, small
dog with a thick, weather-resistant coat.
In the 15th century, Shetland became part of Scotland and began importing
sheep from the mainland. The Scottish Collie, then slightly smaller than
today's breed, was crossed with the Shetland dogs to give the island breed a
more distinct Collie-like appearance. Today, the Shetland Sheepdog is a
popular companion and working dog, excelling at all events requiring
intelligence and agility.
Origin
Scotland
Utilization
Herding, sport (agility)
Classification
Sheepdogs and Cattledogs
Size
Medium
Height
Dogs 37 cm (14.½ ins) at withers. Bitches 35.5 cm (14 ins) at withers.
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