Shetland Sheepdog
Also known as Chien de Berger des Shetland · Perro Pastor de Shetland
Great Britain, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 33–41 cm
- Weight
- 6–12 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Intelligent
- Gentle
- Eager
- Sensitive
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, was bred on the Shetland Islands to work sheep on small crofts and keep ponies and poultry out of the crops. It looks like a scaled-down rough collie, with a long, full coat in sable, tricolour or merle, a thick mane and a refined head. It is bright, sensitive and quick to learn.
Temperament
Intelligent, gentle and eager to please. Bonds closely with family and can be reserved with strangers. Sensitive and vocal, and may herd children or other pets.
Exercise
Allow roughly an hour of exercise a day, with training games or agility to use its quick mind. It can be vocal and may try to herd children, so give it jobs that channel the instinct.
Grooming
Long double coat that sheds. Brush a few times a week, more during moulting.
Care & wellbeing
Check ears and eyes and keep weight lean. Take care with noise sensitivity.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 9 kg adult- Water
- 360 ml–540 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 580 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Shetland Sheepdog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Developed in the Shetland Islands from small island herding dogs, and probably crossed with other collie types. It was used to herd sheep on the islands. Intelligent, keen and sensitive, it is a skilled trainable dog.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Collie eye anomaly
- Dermatomyositis
- MDR1 drug sensitivity
- Hip dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- DNA test for MDR1
- DNA test for collie eye anomaly
- Eye tests
- Dermatomyositis screening
Not every Shetland Sheepdog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Shetland Sheepdog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Shetland Sheepdog get?
Adult Shetland Sheepdogs typically stand about 33–41 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 6–12 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Shetland Sheepdogs live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Shetland Sheepdog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Shetland Sheepdog need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Shetland Sheepdogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Shetland Sheepdogs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Shetland Sheepdogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Shetland Sheepdog live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Shetland Sheepdogs have?
The breed can be prone to collie eye anomaly, dermatomyositis, mdr1 drug sensitivity. Not every Shetland Sheepdog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954