The Tiny Herder of the Shetland Islands, the Shetland Sheepdog

The Tiny Herder of the Shetland Islands, the Shetland Sheepdog

by Troy Richardson

One of the mysterious dog breeds in the world is probably the famous Shetland Sheepdog or simply known as the Sheltie. Its direct ancestor is undefined and the reason behind its temperament is vague but whats certain is the fact that the Sheltie first appeared in the rocky terrains of Shetland Island of Scotland. The Sheltie looks like a small Collie but according to some, the Sheltie is not the result of intentional breeding that will result to a miniature Collie.

Conclusively, the breeds behind the development of the Sheltie are the Scottish Rough Collie, Pomeranian, the now extinct Greenland Yakki, and the King Charles Spaniel. It was believed that the task of this breed was to herd stocks in Shetland Island but now, theories say otherwise. When the Collies herded and guided stocks, the Sheltie was chasing and herding smaller animals such as ducks and squirrels.

Today, the Sheltie is a well-known family pet and companion and it excels in this field outstandingly. Moreover, additional likable disposition of the Sheltie is its eagerness to please the master, obedience and extreme loyalty. With proper and correct training, the Sheltie is a potential skillful dog and reliable household companion.

A Sheltie that was not properly exposed to new people when it is young will shy away from strangers during its adult days. This breed is a possible great playmate to humans especially to children therefore, it is best to socialize them whence they are young. Children should be instructed and guided, too, on how to treat the Sheltie so as to avoid accidents like trampling of the tiny dog.

It was mentioned that the Sheltie was not really meant for herding but curiously, it possesses a natural herding ability that it can't help but chase and herd smaller creatures at home or in the outdoors. Because of this ability and energy, it is important to exercise them daily in the form of running and chasing in the open field. This is to keep them healthy mentally and physically and to utilize its unused herding energy as well.

Generally, the Sheltie stands 13 to 16 inches in height and weighs 14 to 27 pounds. Its long and thick coat consists of an upper coat that serves as a guard hair and an undercoat that serves as comfort against hot or cold temperatures. The outer coat is thick, long and coarse and is water-repellent while the undercoat is soft and shorter.

The general colors of the Sheltie are sable, tri-colour and blue merle. The sable is either golden or mahogany and the tri-colour is white, black and tan. The blue merle is composed of grey, white, black and tan.

In 1909, the first Sheltie was first registered in the English Kennel Club and in 1911; the first Sheltie was registered in the American Kennel Club. This breed, even if not intended to be a herder, has a natural affinity in herding smaller creatures which is often seen through its chasing smaller animals. What's certain, however, that herder or not, the Sheltie is still recognized as an outstanding pet of families around the world. - 20511

Discover useful information about (http://shetland-sheepdog-secrets.com/) Shetland Sheepdog from author and prime breeder Troy Richardson. Go to his website and read about http://shetland-sheepdog-secrets.com/shetland-sheepdog-puppies-sale/.
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New Unique Article!

Title: The Tiny Herder of the Shetland Islands, the Shetland Sheepdog
Author: Troy Richardson
Email: alldogbreed@gmail.com
Keywords: sheltie shetland sheepdog,shetland sheepdog,shetland sheepdog breeders,shetland sheepdog for sale,shetland sheepdog puppies,shetland sheepdog puppies for sale,shetland sheepdog rescue,animals,dogs,pets,home,family,lifestyle
Word Count: 514
Category: dog
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