Sydney the Shetland Sheepdog

This is Sydney, a tri-color Sheltie puppy who is a Pawfessionals client in Dallas. 

Shelties are a breed of herding dog that is small to medium sized. They are bred in a variety of colors – sable, tri-color and blue merle.  Their temperament is typically playful, alert, intelligent, affectionate and trainable, which describes Sydney perfectly!

The Sheltie is relatively new, originally bred in the Shetland Islands and first registered in Lerwick in 1908, with the Scottish Shetland Sheepdog Club in 1909 and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1911.

First named the Shetland Collie, the breed name was changed due to objections by Collie owners in Scotland. This breed is also nicknamed Lilliputian Colie, Toonie Dog, Peerie Dog, Fairy Dog and Miniature Collie. 

A cross breed of mysterious origins, the Sheltie is rumored to have begun with the Scandinavian Spitz, The King Charles Spaniel and the original Pomeranian, bred with the Scottish Collie.

The original purpose of the breed was for herding and farming, but it has become a wonderful household pet and family dog.

 – Kassira McKee

 For more information on the Shetland Sheepdog, click here.