Shetland Sheepdog Coat Colors and Information

Shetland Sheepdog

Coat Colors & Basic Info

Shelties have two base colors of black OR sable. When breeding shelties different genes affect these base colors to produce a great variety of interesting sheltie colors. Below are examples of different sheltie coat colors. Dark mahogany sables which are sables with a black gene are commonly confused with tricolors so we have many examples of each below. Often misunderstood are the white markings on shelties. The white markings found on collar/neck area, legs, tail tips, face, belly etc do not have any bearing on whether a sheltie is of good quality or show quality etc. Tan markings can also be found on the face, legs, inside ears, under tails etc. and again have no bearing on whether the sheltie is of show quality or not

Shelties have double coats consisting of a thick undercoat and harsh outer coat. Shelties will shed their undercoat once each year but will shed small amounts of hair throughout the year. Regular grooming is important to keeping your sheltie's coat in good condition. Usually a good deep brushing of all the hair once per week will keep your sheltie looking his/her best. A good pin brush, slicker brush, nail clippers, and spray bottle with water or water and light conditioner mix are recommended. Remember to keep your shelties teeth clean with regular brushing and/or tooth scaling when needed. Clean teeth are very important to your dogs health and will help keep your dogs breath fresher as well.

Shelties are energetic dogs who form a close bond to their family/owner and have a great desire to please. They are easily trainable and need moderate to high amounts of exercise each day. Shelties like to "talk" and will also bark to protect their home when strangers approach but should not act aggressive with them. Shelties are generally very good around other animals and children when raised with them. When choosing a sheltie for pet it's really not necessary to be gender specific. Its more important to find the right sheltie that fits in with your family. Each sheltie has his/her own personality. Both neutered male and spayed female shelties make great pets

For more information on shelties please visit www.assa.org.

SABLE (pure for sable)