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It is a rare thing to find a breed of dog that is at once  companionable,  hard working, loyal and of lap-dog size as well, but the  Shetland Sheepdog is all of these things. Although resembling the collie in miniature and originating from some of the same stock, the Sheltie was not bred down from the full-size Collie. The breed evolved from hardy ancestors which lived in the Shetland Islands off the coast of Scotland. Due to the harsh living conditions and close association with the people of the Shetlands, the Sheltie  evolved into a miniature herding dog, small and sturdy, a true working dog with a "special something" still evident in his personality today.  

Exercise: Your  Sheltie will adapt himself to your way of life. If you lead a quiet life-style, with no exercise, so will he, but it will not be healthy for him.  If you have a fenced-in yard, where he can run around, fine. If not, long  walks, or throwing a ball in the park, will keep both you and your Sheltie in shape. Shelties will do well in any environment as long as the necessity for  regular exercise is understood.

Socialization: This  is the way you teach your Sheltie puppy how the world works. This is done by  going on "field trips" to the park, playground, shopping center, a friend's home or gatherings where your puppy is welcome. A puppy that is not given this frequent away-from home experience between 12 and 20 weeks of age may not develop that outgoing, friendly Sheltie temperament.

Training: Shelties are extremely intelligent, and quick to learn. They are happiest when  they are participating members of the family. shelties are ready for beginning obedience classes at four to six months of age.

Availability: If you decide a Shetland Sheepdog is indeed the dog for you, the best way to go about finding one is to contact an established breed club or, if you have a chance, to visit a dog show and talk to the exhibitors after the show.

Hip Dysplasia: Before buying a puppy, ask if the parents have been x-rayed for hip dysplasia. This hereditary condition is present in most breeds of dogs. An orthopedic Foundation for Animals ((OFA) number is given to dogs free of this disabling condition. The OFA clearance is not a guarantee that your puppy will not develop  dysplasia, but breeding only x-rayed cleared stock limits the possibility of developing the problem.

(Text modified for use on this site via the Shetland Sheepdog Club of Northern CA)