Unlike many miniature breeds that resemble their larger counterparts, this breed was not developed simply by selectively breeding the Rough Collie for smaller and smaller size. Photograph of a Shetland Sheepdog from 1915 In the early 20th century, James Loggie added a small Rough Collie to the breeding stock, and helped establish the breed that would become the modern Shetland Sheepdog. They were originally a small mixed-breed dog, often only about 20 to 30 centimetres (8 to 12 inches) in height at the shoulder, and it is thought that the original Shetland herding dogs were of the Spitz type, and were crossed with Collies from mainland Britain. Rather, the Sheltie is a descendant of small specimens of the Scottish Collie and the King Charles Spaniel. The Sheltie's origins are obscure, but it is not a direct descendant of the Rough Collie, which it largely resembles.

While the Sheltie still excels at herding, today it is often raised as a working dog and/or family pet. Like the Shetland pony, Shetland cattle and the Shetland sheep, the Shetland Sheepdog is a hardy but diminutive breed developed to thrive amidst the harsh and meagre conditions of its native islands. This breed was formally recognized by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1909. They are incredibly trustworthy to their owners to the point where they are often referred to as 'shadows' due to their attachment to family. This diligent small dog is clever, vocal, excitable and willing to please. The original name was Shetland Collie, but this caused controversy amongst Rough Collie breeders of the time, so the breed's name was formally changed. The Shetland Sheepdog, often known as the Sheltie, is a breed of herding dog that originated in the Shetland Islands of Scotland.

Dog clipper comb sizes chart