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Shetland Sheepdog
Small Breed
The Shetland Sheepdog is a strong working dog of great beauty. Highly intelligent, he is easily trained, sensitive and responsive to his owner. Among the breed's many talents are tracking, herding, watchdogging, guarding, agility, competitive obedience and performing tricks.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Great Britain
Weight
Average 8kg / 18lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Males ideal 37cm / 14.5in;
Females ideal 36cm / 14in (standards may vary)
Coat
Long coat
Markings
Sable: Clear or shaded, no specific markings. Tricolour: Rich tan markings preferred. Blue Merle: Splashed and marbled with black, rich tan markings preferred All: White markings acceptable in blaze, collar and chest, frill, legs and tip of tail, except on black and tan coloured dogs
Lifespan
Above average, 12-15 years
The Shetland Sheepdog is one of the smartest breeds of dog and is always willing to please. Lively, affectionate and loving with children, the Shetland Sheepdog makes the perfect companion and family pet.
Temperament
The Shetland Sheepdog is highly intelligent, sensitive, trainable and responsive to his owners. He is of a delightful temperament, affectionate, kind and very willing to please. The Shetland Sheepdog is lively, yet gentle and loving with children and family, and it thrives on their companionship.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
Shetland Sheepdogs are magnificent small breed dogs, strong but lightly built, of great symmetry and outstanding beauty, and adorned with a superb coat.
- Makes a wonderful family pet and is excellent with children
- Extremely versatile and intelligent
- Excels as a watchdog
- Adapts well to most climates
- A good dog for novice owners
- A seasonally heavy shedder
- Regular grooming needed
- Some trimming and stripping required
- Requires sufficient daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Prone to disease of the eyes, hypothyroidism and displacement of the patella