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The Differences Between a Collie
and Sheltie
By John
P Jackson
Shelties are known as Shetland Sheepdogs when
referring to their breed name. They are oftentimes
confused with a Collie, and sometimes even called
"miniature collies." However, for those who are
unfamiliar with the two dogs, a Collie and Sheltie are
two very distinct breeds. They do look alike, but the
differences between the two are quite vast.
Sheltie Size:
As a breed, a
Sheltie is a bit smaller in size than a Collie. Weighing
in at 15-25 pounds, in comparison to a full-grown Collie
which in adulthood weighs 40-70 pounds and can stand up
to 25 inches in height.
Coat of a Sheltie:
Although a
Sheltie appears very much like a smaller version of a
rough-coated Collie, a Sheltie coat does not come in the
same two colored variations as a Collie. Additionally, a
rough-coated Collie, which looks very much like a
Sheltie, also has a cousin, a smooth-coated Collie with
a coat of hair that measures 1-inch in length.
History of a Sheltie:
Collies
first came into existence around the 17th century in
Scotland and were used as sheep herders. It was their
responsibility to keep a herd of sheep together.
Shelties, however, were developed in the Shetland
Islands during the 1800's, and while they were used for
herding purposes, their task was very different.
Shelties were used on the farm to prevent sheep from
entering vegetable fields to graze. The reason that they
appear so similar to a Collie is because it was one of
the breeds that went into creating the Shetland
Sheepdog.
Personality of a Sheltie:
Collies are a breed of dog that have a regal quality
and refined demeanor. They are a calm breed,
particularly indoors, and might appear to be somewhat
aloof in the presence of strangers. In contrast, a
Sheltie is quite lively and energetic. They have a sense
of clownishness that a Collie simply does not. They are
by very nature, much more active than a Collie and not
as wary of strangers.
Shelties are also highly intelligent and make a great
companion for children, being very patient and sweet
natured. They are also very easy to train, though if you
are looking for a less active companion- type of dog, a
Collie may be better suited.
A Sheltie might seem more content for apartment life
than a Collie, just because of the size difference, but
this is not always the case. Though Shelties are
smaller, they are more active and need more activity and
exercise than a Collie, who is content with a daily walk
to meet their exercise requirements.
This article was written by John Jackson and has been
contributed by http://www.greatdogsite.com For more
information on the Collie, please visit our page http://www.greatdogsite.com/breeds/details/Collie/
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