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Shetland Sheepdog History
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Developed during the 19th century, the Shetland Sheepdog is almost certainly a descendant of the small working Collie; an Icelandic breed call the Yakki and a black and tan King Charles Spaniel may have also had a had in producing the modern Sheltie. The lack of vegetation on the Shetland Islands favored smaller animals, which helps to explain why the Shetland Sheepdog was able to establish a foothold. An all around farm dog, the Shetland Sheepdog was used to herd sheep, ponies and chickens.
Isolated on the islands off the coast of Scotland, the Shetland Sheepdog remained relatively unknown and was not recognized as a breed until 1909, when the English Kennel Club dubbed it the Shetland Collie. In 1914, Collie breeders pressured the club into reclassifying it as the Shetland Sheepdog. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1911. Owing to their origins as shepherds, Shelties tend to be very successful in agility, obedience and herding competitions. Today, the Shetland Sheepdog is one of the most popular breeds in the United States and elsewhere.
Ironically, there are few Shetland Sheepdogs on the Shetland Islands; they have been largely replaced by Border Collies.
