The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie or Miniature Collie, is a bright, loyal, and affectionate herding breed. Known for their intelligence and obedience, Shelties are easy to train and make excellent family dogs and watchdogs. Their eagerness to please and gentle temperament make them one of the most beloved small herding breeds in the world.
Originating from the Shetland Islands between Scotland and Norway, Shelties likely descended from Scottish herding dogs, which also influenced breeds like the Collie and Border Collie. Other theories suggest Nordic influence from breeds like the Pomeranian or King Charles Cavalier Spaniel. Originally bred as herding and guard dogs for small livestock, Shelties quickly gained popularity among island visitors, who brought them back to mainland Britain. Breeding with Collies helped refine their look and size, though variation still exists today. Standing 13–16 inches tall and weighing around 22 pounds, Shelties have a wedge-shaped head, expressive eyes, and a long double coat in sable, black, or blue merle, often accented with white or tan markings.
Shelties are alert, intelligent, and affectionate companions that thrive on human connection and mental stimulation. They tend to be reserved with strangers but are devoted and patient with family, especially children. Regular training with positive reinforcement keeps them engaged and well-mannered. While generally healthy, Shelties can be prone to hip dysplasia, thyroid issues, and eye conditions. Their long coat requires brushing several times per week, using a mist of water and upward strokes to prevent damage. Because of their herding heritage, Shelties enjoy daily walks, games, and agility training to stay active and happy. Expect year-round shedding, but regular grooming helps manage it. Learn more about the Shetland Sheepdog.
Shetland Sheepdog
Meet our absolutely adorable Shetland Sheepdog puppies, sweet, lively little companions just waiting to steal your heart! Known affectionately as Shelties, these beautiful puppies are bursting with pe
Shetland Sheepdog
Meet our absolutely adorable Shetland Sheepdog puppies, sweet, lively little companions just waiting to steal your heart! Known affectionately as Shelties, these beautiful puppies are bursting with pe
Shetland Sheepdog
Meet our absolutely adorable Shetland Sheepdog puppies, sweet, lively little companions just waiting to steal your heart! Known affectionately as Shelties, these beautiful puppies are bursting with pe
Shetland Sheepdog
Meet our absolutely adorable Shetland Sheepdog puppies, sweet, lively little companions just waiting to steal your heart! Known affectionately as Shelties, these beautiful puppies are bursting with pe
Shetland Sheepdog
These Shetland Sheepdog pups have that spark you notice right away, the kind where they're already watching you closely and angling for attention before you've even sat down. Shelties are naturally tu
Shetland Sheepdog
Lucy is a 6 month old sweet and playful little girl. She loves to cuddle and play. She does great with other dogs, cats, and kids. Lucy is crate trained.
8Shetland Sheepdog
Full white collar. Very playful. Adventurous. The most independent.
5Shetland Sheepdog
Biggest out of the litter. He is so cuddly and definitely a lap dog. You can cradle him like a baby and just hold him and he will go to sleep.
4Shetland Sheepdog
The runt out of the bunch. He is a lap dog for sure. He begs to be picked up and held.
3Shetland Sheepdog
Ross has no blaze on his nose/face. He is the fluffiest out of the 4. He is very low key. He doesn’t whine, he likes attention but doesn’t have to have it.
7Shetland Sheepdog
Is an awesome fluffy little guys who love just to cuddle
6Shetland Sheepdog
Beautiful Bi Black sheltie her name says everything about her, she is an adorable all sheltie lol
4Shetland Sheepdog
Found her Furever home
4Shetland Sheepdog
Loving and energetic little fella
4Shetland Sheepdog
Loving and energetic little fella
4Shetland Sheepdog
Found her Furever home
4Shetland Sheepdog
Loving and energetic little sweetie
4Shetland Sheepdog
Loving and energetic little fella