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Description of the Shetland Sheepdog
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Physically, the Sheltie is a most attractive dog. The breed is characterized by flowing lines, the profuse but well-fitting coat with its wide variations of colour, swift, neat movements, refined head and sweet expression, which all appeal to the average person's sense of natural beauty. What is more, all these attributes apply to most all Shelties to a considerable degree, so that the average companion Sheltie can be as beautiful in general appearance as the top show dog.
The Sheltie's mental reactions are as quick as his movements, and the breed is extremely biddable, being genuinely anxious to please. Compared with more independent breeds, the Sheltie is totally free from any wish to challenge or defy his owner. His natural inclination is to obey.
There is a reverse side to every coin, so what are the drawbacks to the Sheltie as a companion? The long coat has to be cared for and, of course, it does shed, sometimes a little at a time, but at least once a year in a thorough moult, which needs to be dealt with by equally thorough grooming. This is not quite as bad as it sounds, as unlike the average short-coated breeds, Sheltie hair does not penetrate carpets or upholstery. Instead, it lies on the surface so that it is easily cleaned from small areas with a damp sponge or a purpose-made brush. The vacuum cleaner removes it very efficiently from carpets.
The Sheltie's quick reaction and his protective instincts make him a very vigilant house dog. His bark is bigger than his size, and his keenness to demonstrate this fact can be a plus or a minus sign, depending on circumstances. The Sheltie used to be regarded almost exclusively as a country dog, often living an idyllic but very secluded life, which intensified the breed's natural reserve toward strangers. However, growing popularity has introduced him to a wider, busier world, which his trust in his owner enables him to accept. Nowadays, a sensibly reared puppy will usually adapt himself happily to any normal surroundings. Although still primarily a one-family dog, the Sheltie does not regard every stranger with dark suspicion. Neither does he fawn on strangers. Always alert and never lethargic, he usually reacts in a very positive way to pleasure or alarm.
The Sheltie is naturally gregarious with other dogs, especially those of his own breed. He usually likes and invariably tolerates cats and other domestic pets while being easily trained to respect farm animals. The Sheltie is no Toy, but he is small enough to be acceptable anywhere, being very quiet and unobtrusive in surroundings which he does not feel called upon to protect. This is a dog that will enjoy any amount of exercise; he is the ideal country companion, happy to stir up the rabbits, but unless encouraged, he is seldom a confirmed hunter.
Most importantly, the Sheltie's small size and air of refinement should not be interpreted as a tendency to delicacy. This is a tough, long-lived breed, and although the Sheltie will happily live in the lap of luxury, posing as an ornament to any home, his is still basically an outdoor type, needing a sensible diet, adequate exercise and above all, the constant companionship of an understanding and appreciative owner.
