Sheltie or Shetland Shepherd is a representative of a very ancient breed. Homeland Shetland Islands - Shetland Islands, which are located north of Scotland. Once upon a time these small dogs guarded the herds of sheep, but with the increase of farms in the 19th century. mini sheepdogs stopped coping with their task, and the breed began to degenerate.
But there were lovers of dogs that kept shelties at home. They created a sheltie club and started breeding. In 1914, the breed was assigned a modern name and the first changes were made to the breed standard. One of the main conditions, which it indicated - Sheltie should have the appearance of a miniature collie.
Indeed, the dogs of Sheltie and Collie are very similar, but, oddly enough, the Shelties did not come from them. In the formation of the breed took an active part of the husky-like dogs of Greenland.
Description of the Sheltie breed
The Sheltie dog has a small growth and a long coat. The colors of sheltie are interesting: the dog's coat can be light and bright gold, black with red-brown spots, silvery-blue, black-and-white.
This squat dog is very beautiful, and despite the first impression, there is no clumsiness in it, all the more rude. She is very gentle, even intelligent. The dog is active, loving, and loves not only his master, but his friends and relatives. Shelty is very good at training, easily trained in various teams. In addition, sheltie - a good caretaker.
Sheltie care
The most laborious in maintaining sheltie is the care of the coat. The owner needs to regularly save the pet from dead skin, although, usually, two or three combings per week are enough. In the hot months of the year, it is recommended to wash the dog more often, some owners trim the sheltie, and
This breed does not require any special food. Dogs are treated with a monotonous diet, but nevertheless, you need to ensure that it contains fats, proteins, carbohydrates and vitamins.
Diseases occurring in sheltie, in general, are not bad treated. These are strong and healthy dogs. But do not forget about vaccination. Sheltie is a dog for those who need an intelligent, faithful and petite friend. The dog is adapted to modern life and will feel good in a city apartment and in a country house. The main thing for her is the owner's attention.