Shetland Sheepdog — breed standard (AKC & FCI: size, coat, temperament, type)

Shetland Sheepdog — breed standard (AKC & FCI: size, coat, temperament, type)

Claims

• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The breed was developed in Great Britain, descending from the Border Collie of Scotland miniaturised on the Shetland Islands and later crossed with Collies.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The FCI standard is number 88; its declared utilization is Companion dog and Sheepdog, and under FCI it sits in Group 1 (sheepdogs and cattle dogs), Section 1, shown without a working trial.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The AKC sets height at the shoulder between 13 and 16 inches; dogs below or above that range are disqualified from the ring.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The coat is a double one: a long, straight, harsh outer layer over a short, furry, very dense undercoat that gives the whole coat a standoff quality, with an abundant mane and frill.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Recognised colours are black, blue merle and sable (running from golden to mahogany), all marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The standard calls the temperament intensely loyal, affectionate and responsive to its owner, while reserved but not fearful toward strangers; shyness, timidity, nervousness, stubbornness, snappiness or ill temper are faults.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Disqualifying faults are a height outside the 13 to 16 inch range and a brindle coat; any dog showing clear physical or behavioural abnormality is also disqualified.