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Shetland Sheepdog 

 

The Shetland Collie, or Shetland Sheepdog as they are called today, originated in the remote, windswept, Shetland islands off the north coast of Scotland. "Shelties" were bred to herd sheep. The sheepdogs stayed with the shepherd in small stone cottages with thatched roofs and thick walls to keep out the freezing howling wind that blew in off the sea. The dog's thick coat protected him for snow and sleet. Sheep often wandered off and fell into snowdrifts in the winter. Good shepherds cared for the sheep and thought nothing of walking miles to hunt for missing sheep, risking their lives climbing up crags and ravines. The Shelties rounded the sheep up and guided them into the safety of walled pens made of rocks. In between snowstorms, and in summer, the sheep wandered over the hills and found pasture. It was the dogs' job to bring them back when necessary. Read the origins of dog breeds.

Shetland sheepdogs are petite, dainty dogs with an abundance of long hair especially on the mane, the chest and the neck, which needs brushing to keep it in order.

Some Shelties bark incessantly, so maybe not the best breed for a home that is close to neighbours. 

A Shetland sheepdog is a good-natured dog and easily trained. They look like a miniature "Lassie." (for Lassie, see rough collie)

The best-known colours are golden-brown and white, but they can be any colour.

Height: dogs 37 cm, bitches 35.5 cms at shoulder. 

A Shetland sheepdog puppy gives untold pleasure to a child.

A Shetland sheepdog puppy, brown & white ball of fluff.

Shemaur Fair Lady, a Shetland sheepdog puppy, belongs to M. Baker, South Africa

 

Shetland sheepdog, beautifully groomed

Shetland sheepdog, turning head. Long fluffy tail

 Annabelle, aka Marguerite of Tresta, aged 7 years. She is fully grown. She belongs to D. Fricke, South Africa  

 

Shetland sheepdog lying down.

Sheltie with sweet face

Excellent Choice All I want for Mackland, imported from Germany, owned by N. Shortland. Her call name is Q.

 

Shetland sheepdogs were working dogs, they loved their shepherd masters. Jesus said, "I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. No one takes it from me: but I lay it down of my own accord." 

What sheep is he talking about? 

He's talking about you and me! 

John chapter 10 verses 11 & 18

 

bearded collie    Border collie    rough collie  

 


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