Shetland Sheepdog looks like a miniatre of collie, originated in the Shetland Island as a working sheepdog. Shelties are small and rough coated and must be sturdy and agle. The idea sheltie stands from 33 to 41 cm (13 in to 16 in) at the shoulder. When viewed from the side, the head looks like a blunt wedge, with the muzzle tapering slightly from the ears to the nose. The teeth meet in a scissors or level bite. The nose is black. The almond shaped eyes are dark, however blue eyes can appear in the blue Merle coat. The small ears are 3/4 erect with the tips folding forward. The neck is arched and muscular. The long tail is feathered, carried straight down, or at a slight upward curve. The tail should reach to the hock. Dewclaws are sometimes removed.
The coat is similar to the collie's, consisting of a long, straight, harsh cuter coat and a short, dense under coat. Shelties may be black, blue, merle, sable (ranging from goldeng to mahagony), or tricolored, with white or tan marking. The breed has long been one of the most popular in the United States. Shelties were first recognized by the English Kennel Club as Shetland collies in 1909 and as Shetland sheepdogs in 1914.
Their color separates them from Collies. Yes, their fur really look the same but their face and mouth features separate them from the collies. Cheers, Natalie about shetland sheepdog care
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