Meet The Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are sensitive, smart, and easy to train. They're loyal family dogs and good with kids if you socialize them as puppies.
As a small dog breed, Shelties stand 13-16 inches (33-41cm) at the shoulder and have a moderate need for exercise of 30-60 minutes off-leash per day. Browse the articles below for more information on Shetland Sheepdogs.
10 Things to Know About Shelties
They may be small dogs, but Shelties have a lot going on in the brains department, making them highly sensitive and easy to train.
The Sheltie Coat Colors
Here's a showcase of the standard Sheltie colors: Pure Sable, Mahogany Sable, Tri Color, Blue Merle, Bi Black, and Bi Blue.
The Shetland Sheepdog FAQ
Common questions about Sheltie temperament, intelligence, lifespan, health, grooming, puppies, breeders, adoption, training, and more.
101 Cute Sheltie Puppies
101 photos of Sheltie puppies by our readers. Cute, playful, curious, sleepy, bashful—oh wait, now I'm just naming dwarves.
20 Things a Puppy Needs
You're getting a new puppy! Praise Wibblesniff! Here's all the essential stuff you need for your new best friend.
Sheltie Puppy Development
See tiny Sheltie puppies growing into mature adult dogs. From newborn dumplings, to gangly coyotes, to billowing fur beasts.
10 Things I Love About Shelties
Shelties are small dogs with a sweet expression and lots of fur. They're sensitive, eager, and highly vocal. Here's what else I love.
Clean Your Sheltie's Teeth
Dogs get tooth decay just like us. Here's how to protect your Sheltie's teeth with brushing, dental chews, and water additives.
A Brief History of Shelties
History confirms Shelties are not mini Collies! They're the descendants of Scandinavian dogs imported to the Shetland Islands 300 years ago.
7 Facts About Mini Shelties
Miniature Shelties, aka Toy Shelties, are an unofficial variation of the Sheltie breed standard that measuring under 13 inches tall.
Blue Merle Shelties
Did you know that Blue Merle Shelties are actually Tri Colors in disguise? The black in their coat has been diluted by the Merle gene.
How To Photograph Your Dog
Discover the essentials of good dog photography, including tips on setting, angle, light, subjects, and choosing your moment.
Are Shelties High Maintenance?
At first glance, Shelties can appear high maintenance dogs requiring a team of groomers, a therapist, and a personal assistant.
The Sheltie Smile
Do dogs smile? Experts say yes, but it's not for the reason we think. A look at the evolutionary roots of this expression in wolf behavior.
101 Shelties in The Bath
I asked Sheltie Planet readers to share their funniest photos of dripping wet Shelties in the tub. This is what I got back.
101 Sheltie Names
You'll be hollering your Sheltie's name at the dog park for years to come, so rule out Mister Bigglesworth right off the bat.
Are Shelties Good Family Dogs?
Shelties make great family dogs if socialized with kids when young. They're energetic with a playful spirit and a charming personality.
The Shetland Sheepdog Standard
The Breed Standard describes the ideal characteristics, temperament, and physical appearance of the model Sheltie.
Annual Dog Events for Shelties
Besides the AKC's 22,000 competitive dog events each year, there are hundreds of US-based pet expos and all-breed dog days out.
To learn more about the wonderful world of Shelties, download my PDF ebook, Shelties: The Complete Pet Owner's Guide - now in its fifth edition.
20 Things a Puppy Needs
You're getting a new puppy! Praise Wibblesniff! Here's all the essential stuff you need for your new best friend.
The Best Brushes for Shelties
The Sheltie's double coat demands specialized dog brushes, ideally a deep de-shedding comb, a fine-toothed comb, and a slicker brush.
10 Things to Know About Shelties
They may be small dogs, but Shelties have a lot going on in the brains department, making them highly sensitive and easy to train.
How to Teach Your Sheltie to Swim
Swimming is great exercise for Shelties that doesn't strain the joints. Here's how to desensitize Shelties to water in baby steps.
33 Medium Sized Dog Breeds
I get it. Large dogs knock down children with their tails, while small dogs get lost in the couch. Medium is surely the way to go.
Stop Your Sheltie Barking
Fill your Sheltie's life with productive outlets for her energy: agility, tricks, obedience, chew toys, games, and exercise.
Can Dogs Smell Cancer?
Daisy is a Labrador who detected breast cancer in her owner, Claire Guest, six years ago.
Dog Beds for Shelties
The best dog beds for Shelties based on budget, climate, dog's age, health conditions, and more.