How to recognize a Reputable Breeder
When looking for a puppy, it is important to find someone dedicated to producing healthy and stable dogs that posses the endearing traits the Sheltie is known for. We recommend that you ask a breeder the following questions to prove they are trying to preserve and protect the breed they love. Just remember, you should be just as interested in interviewing the breeder as the breeder is about interviewing you. They will become your mentor for the next 15 years of the dog's life, so make sure it is someone that you trust and feel comfortable calling when you need advice along the way.
History of the Shetland Sheepdog
The history of the Sheltie is relatively recent and its earliest history is rather undistinguished. The Shetland Islands are remote and sparsely inhabited, although there is evidence of a long history as a stepping stone from Norway in ancient times. The general nature of the Shetland Islands, the windblown climate and somewhat sparse vegetation, have contributed to the miniaturization of livestock there in general. Because of the isolation of the Islands and the difficulty of making a living, animals there had to be very hardy.
by Charlotte McGowan
AKC Breed Standard
The Shetland Sheepdog, like the Collie, traces to the Border Collie of Scotland, which, transported to the Shetland Islands and crossed with small, intelligent, longhaired breeds, was reduced to miniature proportions. Subsequently crosses were made from time to time with Collies. This breed now bears the same relationship in size and general appearance to the Rough Collie as the Shetland Pony does to some of the larger breeds of horses. Although the resemblance between the Shetland Sheepdog and the Rough Collie is marked, there are differences which may be noted. The Shetland Sheepdog is a small, alert, rough-coated, longhaired working dog. He must be sound, agile and sturdy. The outline should be so symmetrical that no part appears out of proportion to the whole. Dogs should appear masculine; bitches feminine.
