The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, is so cherished by its fans that it has earned its very own pet holiday: International Sheltie Day!
When is International Sheltie Day?
International Sheltie Day is celebrated every year on June 1st.
What’s in a Name?
This loyal herding dog takes its name from the Shetland Islands of Scotland, where the breed originated. Over the years, Shelties have been known by various names, starting with the Shetland Collie—a name that was ultimately rejected by enthusiasts of the Rough Collie.
The breed has also been called the Dwarf Scotch Shepherd and Toonie Dog, the latter being an old Scottish term for “farm.”
Fun Facts About Shelties
In honor of International Sheltie Day, here are some fun facts about these amazing dogs:
- Heritage: The Shetland Sheepdog’s lineage includes the Scottish Collie, King Charles Spaniel, Pomeranian, the now-extinct Greenland Yakki, and the Rough Collie, which was introduced in the early 20th century.
- Longevity: Shelties typically live between 12 and 14 years, bringing joy to their families for many wonderful years.
- Intelligence: Ranked as the sixth most intelligent dog breed in the world by a 2023 Reader’s Digest report, Shelties are known for their brains as well as their beauty.
- Popularity: Shelties hold a special place in the hearts of their owners and ranked 28th on the American Kennel Club’s list of the most popular dog breeds in 2021.
- Distinct Size: Often mistaken for the Rough Collie, the Sheltie is much smaller, standing no taller than 16 inches compared to the Rough Collie’s 21 to 26 inches.
- Coat Colors: According to the American Shetland Sheepdog Association, Shelties come in black, blue merle, and sable, often with white markings.
Famous Shelties
- Calvin Coolidge’s Canine Companion: A Sheltie named Calamity Jane once roamed the halls of the White House, owned by President Calvin Coolidge. First Lady Grace Coolidge named her due to the dog’s love of getting dirty, leading to the installation of a special dog bathtub at the White House.
- Miley Cyrus’s Tattoo Tribute: Pop star Miley Cyrus has a tattoo of her Sheltie, Emu (also known as “MuMu”), on her inner forearm. Emu was adopted by Miley in 2014 and even made an appearance in her music video for the hit song “Malibu.”
- Westminster Agility Star: Although a Sheltie has yet to win Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show, in 2022, a Sheltie named Bee won the Westminster Dog Show Agility Championship by completing the course in an impressive 29.81 seconds.
- Disney Fame: In the 1970s, Disney fans might remember the TV movie The Little Shepherd Dog of Catalina, which starred a Shetland Sheepdog in the lead role.
Adopting a Shetland Sheepdog
If you’re thinking of welcoming a Sheltie into your home, many breed-specific rescue organizations across the United States are dedicated to finding forever homes for these lovable dogs. To find a Shetland Sheepdog rescue organization near you, consider visiting online resources that list Sheltie rescues and other pet adoption opportunities including:
Whether you’re already a Sheltie fan or just discovering the breed, International Sheltie Day is a perfect time to celebrate these wonderful dogs and the joy they bring to our lives.