The Shetland Sheepdog, often nicknamed Sheltie, is a working dog originating from the Shetland Islands in Scotland. Although it resembles a "mini-Collie", it has its own characteristics. Traditionally used for herding, it is now an intelligent and agile companion dog.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Shetland Islands, Scotland
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight: 7-10 kg (male & female)
- Height: 36-40 cm (male) | 35-38 cm (female)
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
- Exercise Needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment Living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Suitable for apartment living with good exercise)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Less protective)
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate, may bark)
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Good trainability, but can be a bit stubborn)
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Good hunting ability, but not its primary vocation)
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Relatively calm, but energetic during play)
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Good athlete, but requires regular exercise)
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be independent, but likes to be close to its owners)
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent with children)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can get along with other animals, but early socialization is necessary)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Reserved with strangers, but not aggressive)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can adapt to an apartment, but needs regular walks)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Regular brushing needed)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Fairly moderate)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: At least two to three times a week to avoid tangles and matting
- Shedding period: Daily brushing may be necessary
- Ear care: Regular cleaning to prevent infections
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-1500 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, supplies, food): 600-800 €
🏡 Important note
The Shetland Sheepdog is a very adaptable dog that can live both in the city and in the countryside, as long as it is given daily walks and regular exercise. Although it is a working dog, it is now appreciated as a companion dog due to its affectionate temperament, intelligence, and ability to get along with children. However, it needs a lot of attention and mental stimulation to thrive.
👉 An excellent companion for active families! 🏡🐶
