The Shetland Sheepdog is a Scottish lad with an average shoulder height of fourteen inches (36 cm). The outer layer of their coat is made up of long and wiry hair, while the inner layer tends to be short and soft. Shetland Sheepdogs require a regular grooming regimen with both a brush and a comb, as their long outer hair can easily end up in a tangled mess. Colors can be anywhere from sable (with and without black tips on the hairs), to black and tan with white markings, black-white, and even blue-black.
Shetland Sheepdogs have a loyal and obedient character, with a sharp intelligence, and are overall happy dogs. This breed is not terribly difficult to train. It likes to be busy and absolutely loves. Agility competitions are one of it's favorite activities, and it takes part in them eagerly. While the Shetland Sheepdog can easily adapt to life in a family with a more sedentary lifestyle, they do need to get out, work, and learn. They enjoy taking part in outdoor activities, and perform well in many areas of dog sports. Although watchful around strangers, this dog is extremely sociable with children, other dogs, and household pets.