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                             Shetland Sheepdogs

Author

    * Beverly Miller [[email protected]] or
      [[email protected]]

  Originally written May 3, 1994; latest revision June 15, 1995.
  Copyright (c) 1994, 1995 by Beverly Miller. All rights reserved.
  Permission to make multiple copies is hereby expressly granted to
  nonprofit dog clubs, humane societies, animal shelters and rescue
  organizations, provided that this copyright statement and the article
  remain intact.

  This FAQ is intended as a supplement to, not a substitute for, the
  general dog information found in other USENET dog FAQs.

  Acknowledgements: Thanks are due the following individuals who
  contributed to this FAQ: Connie Byrnes; Anita Fahrenwald; Ed Faulk;
  Dee Flesher; Becky Golatzki, DVM; Ken Gravenstede; Peggy Hammond; John
  De Hoog; Pam Lunsford; Cheryl May; Cindy Tittle Moore; Vicki Wilson;
  and most of all, the Hearthside Shelties, past and present. There are
  probably others I have forgotten to mention and to whom I humbly
  apologize in advance. Any errors are, of course, mine.

  Revisions
    * Updated overview of mailing lists, most of which had moved since
      last update of this faq. Nov 1996 (CTM)

    _________________________________________________________________

Table of Contents

    * History
    * The American Sheltie Today
         + Size
         + Coat Color/Markings
         + Other characteristics
         + Temperament
         + Special considerations
    * Description
    * Medical Problems
         + Heartworm Medications
    * Shelties in Other Countries
         + Shelties in Japan
    * Information Sources
         + Books and Pamphlets
         + Sheltie periodicals (current)
         + Sheltie Gifts
         + Pedigree services specializing in Shelties
         + Sheltie medical problems bibliography
         + Sheltie Rescue Sources
         + ASSA (American Shetland Sheepdog Association)
         + Online information

    _________________________________________________________________

History

  As the name implies, the Shetland Sheepdog ("Sheltie") is indigenous
  to the Shetland Islands, which lie in the wild seas between Scotland
  and Norway. A land of brooding, barren beauty, Shetland and its
  elusive natives have long figured prominently in European mythology.
  This probably explains the more fanciful notions about the Sheltie's
  origins: nineteenth-century Scots called them "peerie" (fairy) dogs,
  and a more recent writer has attempted to link them with the
  prehistoric Picts.

  In fact, the incessant storms that sweep the North Atlantic, rather
  than pixies or fairies, account for Shetland's other- worldly aura, as
  well as the centuries of austerity endured by its inhabitants. With
  topsoil and vegetation constantly threatened by erosion, Shetlanders
  of necessity practiced economy in all things. The ponies, cattle and
  sheep so essential to the local livelihood were turned out to forage,
  while the few crops cultivated were sheltered in walled gardens on the
  tiny "toons" (from the Norwegian tun, for "farm"). However, the two
  means of subsistence often came into conflict when the nimble Shetland
  animals jumped the stone walls to feast on the tender sprouts growing
  within.

  By the middle of the nineteenth century, the thrifty islanders had
  begun to breed small agile dogs, which they called "toonies," to keep
  the ponies and sheep off the "toons" and out of the crops. Little is
  known of the dogs' ancestry. An earlier, larger sheepdog of Shetland,
  various British working collies, the Icelandic Yakkie, and dwarf
  spaniels may all have contributed genes, but nothing is recorded of
  the Shelties' history until close to the end of the century.

  British fanciers' interest in the toonies apparently coincided with
  the depletion of their numbers. By the late 1800's, sailors from
  whaling vessels were reportedly carrying many of the little island
  dogs off to serve as ships' dogs, or as gifts for loved ones back
  home. Maxwell Riddle has suggested that the first Shelties may have
  arrived in America this way. As they would have been pets, rather than
  show or breeding stock, their genes do not survive in today's AKC
  Shelties.

  The first breeders to take on the task of "preserving and purifying"
  the toonies soon developed serious differences. Some sought to
  perpetuate the characteristics of the crofters' dogs, which were
  described in a publication of the day as 10-11" tall, weighing 6-10
  lbs, "pretty, intelligent and hardy." However, other breeders saw the
  toonies as little more than mongrels, and in need of considerable
  refinement.

  The latter group sought to strengthen what they perceived to be the
  toonie's best traits by crossing them with small rough Collies (at the
  turn of the century, British Collies were not nearly as large as
  today's American standard Collies). This practice was accepted at the
  time by the [English] Kennel Club, which required documentation for
  three generations before progeny could be registered. These "declared
  crosses" produced a somewhat bigger dog, which was called the Shetland
  Collie. Subsequent efforts to bring the dogs' size back down by
  selective crosses with toy breeds resulted in a loss of Collie type
  and were soon abandoned.

  The Kennel Club recognized the Shetland Collie in 1909, and a year
  later, the first representative of the new breed was registered with
  the American Kennel Club. In 1914, following a series of objections by
  Collie fanciers, the Shetland Collie was officially renamed the
  Shetland Sheepdog. A World War I breeding ban in Britain significantly
  set back the Sheltie's progress, but after it was lifted, American
  fanciers began to import more Shelties, and by 1929, there were enough
  enthusiasts to form the American Shetland Sheepdog Association. ASSA
  held its first specialty show in 1933.

  Imports from England continued until the 1950's, when American and
  British Shelties began to diverge greatly in type. This may be partly
  attributable to American Collie crosses which remain undocumented, as
  AKC has always forbidden cross-breeding. It may also result from the
  fact that the English standard has long declared an ideal height for
  all Shelties (14" for bitches; 14.5" for dogs), while the American
  standard does not give preference to any height between 13 and 16
  inches. (Prior to adoption of the present standard in the 1950's,
  American Sheltie champions could be as tall as 18"). Today Shelties
  from the two countries are distinctly different, and U.S.-U.K. imports
  are rare.

  While Sheltie numbers increased steadily in the United States, for
  many years they remained considerably less well known than their
  Collie cousins. By 1980, however, the situation had reversed, and in
  contrast to the larger breed, the Shetland Sheepdog has appeared on
  AKC's list of the ten most popular dogs twelve of the past fifteen
  years. By the early 1990's, however, Sheltie popularity seems to have
  peaked, and as with a number of popular purebreds, Sheltie
  registrations are now dropping dramatically. In 1992, they were the #9
  breed with 43,449 individual registrations. In 1993, they were #10,
  with 41,113 registrations. The most recent AKC statistics (published
  in April 1995 for 1994) record Sheltie 36,853 registrations, putting
  the breed now at #13.
    _________________________________________________________________

The American Sheltie Today

  To some degree, the debate over which characteristics shall prevail
  continues in the U.S. today. This results in considerably more
  variation than is suggested by the AKC Standard.

 Size

  American Shelties come in a range of sizes. Pet-owners cannot take too
  literally labels that tell how much to feed a Sheltie, charts that
  provide ideal weights for different breeds, or even advertisements for
  "Sheltie-sized" crates and other accessories. While show Shelties must
  measure between 13-16" at the shoulder, the vast majority are over
  14", and keeping their dogs "in size" is a constant problem for some
  breeders. Pet Shelties have been known to reach 20" or more, and weigh
  upwards of 40 lbs. At the same time, petite Shelties of less than 13"
  are still sometimes seen. This diversity gives rise to confusing
  terms. Newspaper ads regularly list "toy collies," "miniature
  collies," or even "toy Shelties" for sale. No such breeds exist. A
  Sheltie is a Sheltie, regardless of size.

  A Sheltie's height is not an indication of its health, soundness or
  temperament. Nevertheless, pet-owners may have legitimate concerns
  about size. Your best resource in this matter is a knowledgeable
  breeder. Both over-sized (over 16") and under-sized (below 13")
  individuals can appear in the same litter. This is particularly true
  when an ill-informed "breeder," lacking a working knowledge of
  genetics, mistakenly believes they can "average out" size by mating a
  big Sheltie with a small one. Moreover, different Sheltie lines mature
  at different rates: the biggest pup at six weeks may not be biggest at
  six months. A reputable breeder, who has invested years in studying
  both the breed and their particular line, will provide the best
  estimate regarding the size a given pup will reach at maturity.

 Coat Color/Markings

  Shelties also come in a variety of colors. Although genetically, there
  are only two Sheltie coat colors (black and brown), many terms are
  used to describe the different shades of Sheltie.

  Sable Shelties are brown or tan, with coats ranging from pale lemon or
  ginger through mahogany. The darker ones usually have black "guard"
  hairs over the brown. These are called "shaded sables" or
  "tri-factored sables." Some sables, both light and dark, have a red
  cast to their coats, hence the term "red sables." Sables usually have
  white markings, but these may vary from prominent to almost
  non-existent. Regardless of the amount of white, or the amount of
  black or red cast, all sables should be registered with the AKC as
  Sables.

  Black Shelties are registered with the AKC as Tri-colors when they
  have white and tan markings, or as Bi-blacks when they are marked with
  white only. When black Shelties have a coppery cast to their coat,
  this is called "rusting." It is a fault in the show ring, but in no
  way affects their value as pets.

  Blue Merles are genetically black Shelties whose coat color has been
  modified by the merling gene. This makes them appear to be dappled
  silver and black, usually with black patches. Blue merles also differ
  from other Shelties in that they may have blue or brown eyes (or one
  of each), or merle eyes, which appear to be both brown and blue. This
  does not indicate any vision deficiency. Blue merles are also usually
  marked with varying amounts of white, and may or may not have tan
  markings. Those without tan markings are called Bi-Blues.

  There are two kinds of white Shelties. One type is called the
  "color-headed white." "White factor" determines the Sheltie's
  so-called Dutch or Irish markings (the white collar, bib and cuffs)
  which are associated with Lassie but are not required for the show
  ring. Some heavily white-factored dogs have white haunches and legs, a
  huge white collar, and completely white shoulders and forelegs. Such a
  dog may have so much white on its body that only a "saddle" or a few
  patches of color remain. Its head, however, contains no more white
  than any other Sheltie's might. (This is similar to what is called
  parti-color in other breeds). At present, the AKC Standard severely
  penalizes any show Sheltie that is over 50% white. However,
  color-headed white Collies have long been accepted in the show ring,
  and many fanciers believe color-headed white Shelties should be also.
  In any event, color headed whites are completely normal. They can be
  shown at non-AKC shows and are entirely suitable as pets or obedience
  dogs.

  The same cannot be said for the white "double" or homozygous merles
  which result from merle-merle breedings. (Usually the parents are both
  blues, but there are rare sable merles as well. Sheltie color genetics
  are very complicated, and no one should attempt breeding without a
  thorough understanding of all the possibilities.) The "double merle"
  usually has a great deal of white on its head as well as its body.
  These dogs are blind unless a black patch appears over an eye, and
  deaf unless a black patch appears over an ear. They frequently have
  heart and other problems as well, and are not recommended as pets.

  With the exception of the "double" merle described above, Shelties of
  all colors make equally satisfactory companions. There is no
  connection between a Sheltie's temperament or trainability and its
  coat color. Although the sables continue to be popular with the
  public, many breed fanciers prefer the blue merles and tri-colors.

 Other characteristics

  Pet Shelties may show similar variation in other characteristics as
  well. Some have the broad back skull and heavy ears of the early farm
  collies. Others possess the tiny, foxy faces and prick ears that were
  common among their early island antecedents. Some Shelties are
  finely-built and dainty looking, while others are heavily boned, with
  long heads, necks and/or backs. While most people find the above as
  endearing as any champion, it does mean that your Sheltie might look
  quite different from the one down the street.

  Despite their thick coats, Shelties are not suited to outdoor living.
  They should always be protected from extremes of heat and cold.
  Sociable animals, they hate being isolated, and Shelties who feel
  abandoned can develop behavioral problems. On the other hand, Shelties
  usually possess a strong denning instinct, and adapt well to crates.
  If a Sheltie must be alone during the day, a crate indoors is a far
  better solution than solitary confinement in the back yard or
  basement.

  While some Shelties are sedate and enjoy the quiet life, many modern
  Shelties have relatively high exercise requirements. Some experts
  recommend a two-mile daily walk as ideal. Shelties often take great
  joy in such sports as obedience, fly-ball, frisbee, herding, agility,
  and tracking. However, although the breed has an impressive record of
  achievement in these activities, not all Shelties are built to work.
  Sporting enthusiasts may need to take greater care than in some breeds
  to insure getting a sound prospect for competition.

 Temperament

  As suggested above, Sheltie temperaments also differ, and this may be
  of considerable significance to the pet owner. Shelties
  characteristically make affectionate and intelligent pets, bonding
  strongly to their primary person(s). They are also usually excellent
  household watchdogs, and those raised with children generally become
  fine family dogs. Possessed of a powerful instinct to please, Shelties
  are sensitive and respond best to gentle but consistent handling and
  training. Around strangers, the breed is often described as reserved,
  although some of today's Shelties greet strangers with enthusiasm. If
  relatively few still display the timidity which was an early fault in
  the breed, the type described by the older (and English) Sheltie books
  as content to sit home by the hearth, grateful for only an afternoon's
  leisurely stroll, is also scarcer than it once was. Many American
  Shelties now have noisy "terrier-type" personalities: spirited,
  sometimes stubborn, high-energy dogs, they need to be kept busy.

  This makes choosing the right Sheltie a lot more difficult than one
  might suspect, seeing a sweet face in the pet store window. The
  perfect dog for obedience or herding might be a nightmare for a
  sedentary person, while their docile darling could suffer sadly in a
  family of rowdy pre-teens. When you seek out the services of a
  seasoned breeder, s/he will ask many questions in order to make the
  best possible match to your particular needs. Avoid dealing with
  anyone who is more interested in making a sale than in facilitating an
  informed selection. After all, with luck and good care, your Sheltie
  should be with you for twelve or more years (some have survived to
  twenty!) and it is worth investing a little extra time, effort and
  money at the outset.

 Special considerations

  While Shetland Sheepdogs possess many delightful qualities that make
  them rewarding companions, they also have two traits that may give
  pause to potential pet-owners. They shed and they bark. Before
  acquiring a Sheltie, you should consider carefully whether you are
  willing to assume the special responsibilities associated with these.

  The Sheltie is a double-coated breed and requires a minimum of one
  thorough brushing a week to maintain cleanliness and health. During
  sheds, daily attention is a must. Most adult, neutered Shelties cast
  coat once a year. When youngsters "blow" their puppy coat, it seems as
  if there is fur everywhere, but this only happens once. Generally,
  dogs (males) have heavier coats than bitches, and of course the bigger
  the adult Sheltie, the more coat there will be to deal with. However,
  unspayed bitches moult the most, shedding with each seasonal cycle,
  rather than annually -- one more argument for having your female fixed
  as soon as possible. (Bitches also lose much of their coat after each
  litter. Don't be disappointed if your pup's dam appears to be skimpily
  clad. Your spayed or neutered pet Sheltie need never look that naked!)

  The other challenge to owning a Sheltie is that they are notorious
  barkers. To some extent, this varies with the individual, but as a
  breed they are known to be vocal. And unlike some smaller breeds which
  are barky but have "baby" voices, Shelties possess a penetrating bark.
  Your neighbors may not appreciate the fact that your dog's ancestors
  always lived within three miles of the ocean, and had to be heard over
  the sound of crashing surf, the call of sea animals, the bleating of
  lambs, and the howl of high winds. Train your Sheltie early to stop
  barking once you have determined that there is nothing to be concerned
  about. If you are unsure how to do this, ask your breeder or
  veterinarian for the name of a reputable trainer. Two or more Shelties
  can be next to impossible to keep quiet, which is why many
  multiple-Sheltie owners have some of their dogs de- barked. You may
  want to discuss this option with your breeder or veterinarian as well.
    _________________________________________________________________

Description

  The Standard is the physical "blueprint" of the breed. It describes
  the physical appearance and other desired qualities of the breed
  otherwise known as _type_. Some characteristics, such as size, coat
  quality, and movement, are based on the original (or current) function
  for the dog. Other characteristics are more cosmetic such as eye
  color; but taken together they set this breed apart from all others.
  The Standard describes an _ideal_ representive of the breed. No
  individual dog is perfect, but the Standard provides an ideal for the
  breeder to strive towards.

  Because of copyright concerns over the collection of all the Standards
  at any single site storing all the faqs, AKC Standards are not
  typically included in the Breed faqs. The reader is referred to the
  publications at the end of this document or to the National Breed Club
  for a copy of the Standard.
    _________________________________________________________________

Medical Problems

  Regrettably, the excesses of top-ten popularity have permitted a
  number of congenital/hereditary problems to proliferate in this
  basically healthy, long-lived breed. Fortunately, testing can identify
  many of these before they are passed on. One hallmark of the
  responsible breeder is that they will have tested all their breeding
  stock for:
   1. Eye disease, which in Shelties includes Progressive Retinal
      Atrophy (PRA), Central PRA (CPRA), Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) which
      is also called Sheltie Eye Syndrome (SES), and Corneal Dystrophy
      (CD);
   2. von Willebrand's Disease (vWD) and other hereditary bleeding
      disorders;
   3. Canine Hip dysplasia (CHD), and
   4. Thyroid disease, which in Shelties has been linked to several
      other medical problems.

  Before being bred, both bitches and studs should be registered with
  CERF (the Canine Eye Registration Foundation) and cleared by the OFA
  (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals). In addition, they should be
  tested for both thyroid and vWD. Beware of breeders who can't be
  bothered, or those who have tested one dog and so claim to know all of
  their dogs are "clear."

  Alas, other inherited diseases found in Shelties cannot be so readily
  detected: epilepsy (canine seizure disorder); liver, kidney and
  pancreas conditions; two forms of Lupus; several skin diseases, and an
  occasional cancer have been reported to disproportionately affect some
  lines. See the Usenet Collie FAQ and Canine Medical Information FAQs
  for further discussion, as well as the Sheltie medical problems
  bibliography in the Information section that follows.

  Before you buy a puppy, always ask the breeder about any problems
  found in their line. Breeders who deny the existence of Sheltie
  medical problems are not being honest: shop elsewhere. A reputable
  breeder will provide a written guarantee on the health of a puppy, and
  will want to know immediately about any medical problems that arise.

 Heartworm Medications

  Heartworm has become a national problem, and most veterinarians
  recommend protecting your dog with some kind of regularly administered
  preventative medication. However, some Shelties, Collies, and related
  breeds have an unusual sensitivity to Ivermectin, the active
  ingredient in the popular monthly heartworm preventative called
  Heartguard. The monthly medication Interceptor was developed
  especially for these sensitive breeds. Its active ingredient is
  milbemycin, which has been demonstrated safe for Shelties and their
  relatives. The daily heartworm medication Filaribits is also safe for
  these dogs, although some concern has been expressed about possible
  liver damage connected with extra ingredient in Filaribits Plus.
    _________________________________________________________________

Shelties in Other Countries

  Note: in an effort to make this FAQ more relevant to readers outside
  the U.S., and to provide an international perspective for American
  fanciers, this section is available to whomever is willing to
  contribute information about Shelties in their country. Information
  would be particularly welcome from fanciers in the U.K. and Canada.
  Meanwhile, special thank-yous to John De Hoog, who submits this
  revealing report from Japan.

 Shelties in Japan

  The first Sheltie to come to Japan by "official channels" was brought
  here in 1955 by Kameo Kido. Before leaving the U.S., Geronimo Jackpot
  had been bred to Ch. Geronimo Crown Prince. In Japan, she whelped one
  female pup. Kido then imported Geronimo Prince Regent to be her male
  counterpart. The Geronimo line never developed very far in Japan,
  however, and no more from this line were brought to Japan after they
  peaked out.

  The Shelties coming out of the Page's Hill kennel fared much better.
  They were imported by the Green Hill kennel of the Japan Shetland
  Sheepdog Club (JSSC), and included Ch. Stronghold O'Page's Hill, the
  first American Sheltie champion to be brought to Japan. Mr. Ohashi of
  Green Hill imported this dog after careful research of the breed, and
  he subsequently imported other outstanding dogs from this line, in the
  process creating a strain of Japanese Shelties quite different from
  those that preceded it.

  Most of the other Shelties that were introduced to Japan in later
  years came from American kennels. Around two-thirds of the Shelties
  now in Japan are registered with the AKC. A third are registered with
  the Japan Kennel Club and a mere handful (just over 3,000) with the
  English Kennel Club. Meanwhile, Japanese breeders have been producing
  their own strains, some quite lovely. AKC refuses to recognize any of
  these, so in this case the trade imbalance is all in America's favor.

  The Japanese public soon fell in love with these dogs, and in the
  1980's the Shetland Sheepdog became the most popular breed in Japan.
  The number of Sheltie registrations peaked in 1988 at 32,000, then
  started dropping. There were 27,821 registrations in 1991 and 24,230
  in 1992. At that time the Sheltie was the third most popular dog in
  Japan, following the Siberian Husky (58,381 registrations) and Shih
  Tzu (44,322). (Many Shibas and other Japanese breeds remain
  unregistered in their native land).

  The declining popularity of the Sheltie in Japan today is evident in
  the large numbers here that are elderly and not very healthy. Japanese
  tend to have fickle tastes when it comes to dogs. The Sheltie's looks
  and gentleness with children contributed to their initial appeal.
  Today there are fewer children, and the Sheltie's tendency to run
  around excitedly and to be rather noisy is a definite disadvantage in
  a crowded city like Tokyo. Today those who can afford the luxury of
  space seem to be turning to Goldens (whose registration doubled in
  1992), while the toy breeds are becoming more popular with others.
  Still, the Sheltie is likely to remain as one of the top ten favorites
  in Japan for some time, even if the initial fad has come and gone.


   John De Hoog [email protected]

    _________________________________________________________________

Information Sources

 Books and Pamphlets

   1. _American Shetland Sheepdog Association_, c/o Mrs. Dorothy
      Christiansen, 13520 Bruce Rd, Lockport IL 65441 (tel 815-485-3726
      after 4 PM CST).
      Send SASE for publication list, which includes the annual ASSA
      HANDBOOKS, the PICTORIAL STANDARD, "The Shetland Sheepdog," a
      pamphlet for new puppy-owners, etc.
   2. Baker, Maurice. _Shetland Sheepdogs Today_. Ringpress Bks (UK),
      distributed by Seven Hills, 1993. 160p.
      Baker has had Shelties since 1954 and with wife Sheila now runs
      one of the leading Shetland Sheepdog kennels in the U.K. Pam
      Lunsford, a dog book collector and Sheltie fancier, reminds us
      that recent British books depict a different type of Sheltie than
      is produced in the U.S. today. Although they began from the same
      roots, British and American Shelties have diverged greatly, so
      that "our Shelties don't really look like theirs. A new Sheltie
      person shouldn't expect an American Sheltie pup to grow up looking
      like an English one."
   3. Davis, Mary. _Pet-Owner's Guide to the Shetland Sheepdog_. Howell,
      1993. 83p.
   4. Davis, Mary. _Shetland Sheepdogs_. Arthur Barker (UK), 1973.
   5. Haderlie, Jan and Peggy. _Color Inheritance Charts for the
      Shetland Sheepdog_. Carlsbad CA: Sheltie International, 1983. 20p.
      To see if they have these informative charts still available,
      contact the International at its latest address (see under
      Periodicals).
   6. Herbert, Berryl M. _The Shetland Sheepdog_. Arco, 1976. 92p.
      Beryl and Joan Herbert of Harrowgate, U.K., a famous English
      sister team of Sheltie breeders, established their Shelert line in
      1946.
   7. Hess, Lilo. _Life Begins for Puppies_. Scribner, 1978. 34p.
      A children's book about a litter of four Sheltie pups.
   8. Hostetter, Karen D. _The Shetland Sheepdog Pedigree Book_
      (formerly the _Shetland Sheepdog Reference Book_), 1993.
      Available from Karen Hostetter, The Shetland Sheepdog Library,
      4206 Dolphin Rd, Louisville KY 40220-3502. Karen also publishes
      Sheltie Kennelogs and a ROM book; write for additional
      information.
   9. Johnson, Margaret Sweet. _Gay, A Shetland Sheepdog_. Morrow, 1948.
      96p.
      Another children's book.
  10. Jones, Chris, Jean Fergus, Mona Simmons and Susan Ferroni-
      Keleher. _The New Shetland Sheepdog Puppy-Owners Manual_. Reporter
      Publications, 1992.
      Highly recommended intro to Sheltie-owning from the Sheltie
      International team.
  11. McKinney, Betty Jo. _Sheltie Talk_. Rev ed. Alpine Publications,
      1985. 307p.
      Top-rated Sheltie book. Barbara Hagen Riesenberg co- authored the
      first edition of this classic, touted by Sheltie-Listers as THE
      title to buy if you only get one. Betty Jo McKinney produced the
      revised ed after Riesenberg's death in 1980. This is now out of
      print as well. A third edition is reportedly due out in summer of
      1995.
  12. Moody, Jan. _Shetland Sheepdogs: The Sheltie_. Bredicot
      Publications (UK), date?
  13. Moore, Catherine Coleman. _The Complete Shetland Sheepdog_.
      Denlingers, 1960. 127p.
      Catherine Coleman (later Moore) was one of the founders of the
      ASSA, and remained active in that organization into the 1970's.
      She produced the first American-bred Sheltie champion, Miss
      Blackie, in 1931. Coleman's Sheltieland Kennel was for many years
      one of the nation's most famous (see note under Thynne). Her books
      have long been considered classics, and this 1960 title is today a
      rare collector's item.
  14. Moore, Catherine Coleman. _The Shetland Sheepdog_. W.W. Gallagher,
      1943. 168p.
      Written under the author's maiden name, Catherine E. Coleman.
  15. Miller, Evelyn. _How To Raise And Train A Shetland Sheepdog_. TFH
      Publications, 1982. 96p.
  16. Nicholas, Anna Katherine. _The Book Of The Shetland Sheepdog_. TFH
      Publications, distributor. 1984. 544p.
      Nicholas is a Poodle and Beagle fancier who has written for the
      AKC Gazette and other dog magazines, and authored books on many
      breeds. This is a large, lavish book, profusely illustrated with
      many photos not found elsewhere. However, it has not been
      generously received in the "Sheltie press," with reviewers
      complaining that her version of American Sheltie history is
      distorted and incomplete.
  17. Osborne, Margaret. _The Popular Shetland Sheepdog_. 6th ed. Arco
      1977. 221p.
      Margaret Osborne of Shiel Shelties (England) began showing the
      breed in 1925. Maxwell Riddle, in the first edition of his book
      (q.v.) calls her kennels "world famous."
  18. Pisano, Beverly. _Shetland Sheepdogs_. TFH Publications, 1994.
      224p.
  19. Puxley, W. Lavallin. _Collies & Sheepdogs_. Gordon Press, 1992.
  20. Riddle, Maxwell. _The New Complete Shetland Sheepdog_. Howell
      House, 1991. 210p.
      Riddle is a distinguished breeder-exhibitor (but not of Shelties)
      and judge who is Past President of the Dog Writer's Association
      and currently President of AKC's Board of Directors. In 1972, he
      travelled to Shetland to collect material for the first edition of
      this book.
  21. Rogers, Felicity M. _All About the Shetland Sheepdog_. 2nd rev ed.
      Pelham Books (UK), 1980. 128p.
      The Misses Rogers (Patience was the other sister) established
      their Riverhill Shelties in England in 1932, after becoming
      acquainted with the breed through an uncle, who owned a Sheltie as
      early as 1914. Their dogs earned many accolades and Felicity
      judged several times at Crufts and in the U.S. Like many of the
      older British books, this volume, with its rare photos of early
      Shelties, is a treasure trove for the breed historian.
  22. Ross, Barb. _The Illustrated Guide To Sheltie Grooming_. Alpine
      Publications, 1993.
      Barb's Happy Glen Shelties include BIS and champion show dogs, as
      well as obedience, agility and herding titled dogs. She has
      studied art and here combines her interest in grooming and
      illustration to provide a very useful guide.
  23. Schneider, Earl. _Know Your Shetland Sheepdog_. Pet Library, no
      date. 64p.
      Probably published in the early 1960's.
  24. Schneider, Evelyn. _The Shetland Sheepdog_. Denlingers, 1994.
  25. Scott, John Paul and John L. Fuller. _Dog Behavior: The Genetic
      Basis_ (originally published as _Genetics And The Social Behavior
      Of The Dog_.) University of Chicago Press, 1965.
      A pioneering study based on 20 years' research, its major
      contribution was providing scientific evidence for heredity's
      effect on canine traits, and documenting the fact that breeds
      differ significantly in their emotional and motivational
      characteristics. The team of scientists chose representatives from
      each of the (then) five AKC groups for their study: Basenjis,
      Beagles, Cockers, Wire- haired Fox Terriers, and Shetland
      Sheepdogs.
  26. Sheltie Pacesetter (magazine). _Trade Secrets_. Write the
      Pacesetter at P. O. Box 3310, Palos Verdes, CA 90274-3310.
      This collection of tips won an award from the Dog Writers
      Association.
  27. Shiel. _The Shetland Sheepdog_. J. Bartholomew (UK), 1977. 96p.
  28. Simons, Joan. _High Jumps And Dumbbells_. Alpine, 1979. 1380p.
      The author of this book about an obedience Sheltie was a former
      high school English teacher who wrote for Dog World and breed
      magazines and trained her Shelties in obedience.
  29. Sucher, Jaime J. _Shetland Sheepdogs: Everything About Purchase,
      Care, Nutrition, Breeding And Diseases, With A Special Chapter On
      Understanding Shetland Sheepdogs_. Barrons, 1990. 79P.
  30. Taynton, Mark. _Shetland Sheepdogs: History, Training, Health
      Care, Breeding, Showing, Grooming_. TFH Publications, 1973. 128p.
  31. Thynne, Beryle. _The Shetland Sheepdog_. Originally published in
      the U.K. in 1916; a reprint ed was issued in 1990.
      Thynne was an important figure in early Sheltie history. She
      registered some of the first "Shetland Collies" in England in
      1913, and her Kilravock Kennels would later be one of the few to
      preserve their breeding stock through the British ban during WWI.
      In the early 1920's, her dogs began to be imported to the U.S, and
      Maxwell Riddle has contended that one of these, Kilravock Lassie
      (owned by Catherine Coleman) "should probably be given credit for
      establishing the breed in America."
  32. Whelen, Betty. _No Greater Love_. Alpine, 1988. 189p.
      In 1931, breed pioneer W. W. Gallagher contracted a Pennsylvania
      Collie breeder-handler named Betty Whelen to show his English
      Sheltie Ch. Helensdale Laddie at Westminster. Laddie became the
      foundation for Gallagher's famous Page's Hill Shelties, and
      inspired Whelen to import Syncopating Sue, which started her
      Pocono Shelties. Whelen's dogs are behind many modern lines and
      she continued breeding into the 1980's. Her presence at the ASSA
      National was an annual event until she died in 1995. This title
      consists of her memoirs. Whelen also provided much of the
      background material for Nicholas' book.
  33. Widder, Robert B. _Jennie Has A Birthday_. Carolrhoda Books, 1974.
      32p.

  Notes:
  For works issued in several editions, only the latest is listed.
  Titles may vary slightly from edition to edition. Some of these are
  long out of print, but may be found in libraries, and occasionally for
  sale by dealers specializing in OP dog books. (For addresses, see the
  ads in Sheltie magazines and the _AKC Gazette_, _Dog Fancy_, and _Dog
  World_.)

  Caveat:
  A few of the above titles are designed for sale in pet stores. They
  encourage readers to purchase puppies in such shops, and recommend
  that you buy pet supplies (which they advertise by brand name) there
  as well. Some also suggest that you breed your pet Sheltie. None of
  these notions is endorsed by the author of this FAQ.

 Sheltie periodicals (current)

   1. _ASSA Handbook_. Annual. American Shetland Sheepdog Association,
      c/o Mrs. Dorothy Christiansen, 13520 Bruce Rd, Lockport IL 65441.
      Write for price list of in-print issues, or see ads in the Sheltie
      magazines (below). Mrs. Christiansen also buys out-of-print _ASSA
      Handbooks_ from those who no longer want them, and matches them
      with her list of people who wish to buy these older editions as
      they become available.
   2. _Cassette_ (formerly Collie and Sheltie Cassette). Quarterly. Anne
      Lively, editor. 2 Hemlock Cove Rd, R.R. No. 3, Falmouth ME 04105.
      $7/year.
   3. _Sheltie International_. Bi-monthly (6 issues/year). Jean Fergus,
      ed. Reporter Publications, Box 6369, Los Osos, CA 93412. Phone:
      (805) 528-2007, fax: (805) 528-8200. $43/year.
   4. _Sheltie Pacesetter_. Bi-monthly. Nancy Lee Marshall, editor and
      publisher, is moving to Tennessee in May 1995. She can be reached
      at P.O. Box 158, McKenzie, TN 38201. Her California office will
      remain accessible by telephone (310-791-0102) until further
      notice. $44/year.

  Sample issues of the above are generally available; contact the
  publishers for more information.

  These earlier Sheltie magazines had all ceased publication by the
  early 1980's:
    * _Collie And Shetland Sheepdog Review_
    * _Sheltie Special_
    * _Shetland Sheepdog Review_

 Sheltie Gifts

  Calendars
         The Mid-Florida Shetland Sheepdog Club's annual calendar is a
         classic. 1995 calendars are available (while they last) from
         Shelby Price, 2841 Elizabeth Place, Lakeland FL 33813. Cost:
         $10.50 single copy; two for $20, three for $28.50, four for
         $37, five for $44.50 or six for $52. Make checks payable (US $
         only) to Keynote Specialties. Canada and Mexico add $2 postage;
         Overseas add $5. Florida orders add 6% sales tax.

  Dog Cookie Recipe Books
         Riley County (Kansas) Sheltie Rescue publishes this
         mouth-watering collection of 42 dog cookie recipes, including
         several for liver, cheese, no-bake and other treats. Also
         includes a recipe for cat cookies and upset-tummy remedies for
         Shelties who overindulge! Send $5 (includes shipping and
         handling) to Riley County Sheltie Rescue, 2005 Somerset Square,
         Manhattan KS 66502-2197.

  Sheltie Specialties' catalog
         Offers prints, magnets, clocks mailboxes, license plates, ties,
         stained glass and other products emblazoned with your favorite
         breed. Write for a copy to: 6711 Shamrock Glen, Middleton WI
         53562, or call (608) 836-5033.

 Pedigree services specializing in Shelties

   1. Shelti-Data, Ann Hedge, 1880 E Andromeda Place, Tucson AZ 85737.
   2. Shetland Sheepdog Library, Karen D. Hostetter, 4206 Dolphin Rd,
      Louisville, KY 40220-3502.

 Sheltie medical problems bibliography

  Most discussions of canine medical problems do not deal specifically
  with one breed. As a result, owners often turn to specialty magazines
  for this kind of information. However, articles in fanciers' magazines
  frequently reflect one breeder's experience, or the second-hand
  opinion of one or a few vets with whom the author consulted. Such
  accounts may be interesting and suggestive, but should be supplemented
  with more systematic studies when available. The following reports
  from scientific sources deal specifically with the incidence of
  diseases or conditions in Shetland Sheepdogs. However, they should not
  be relied on as a substitute for expert advice.

   BLADDER CANCER

  Hayes, Howard M. "Canine Bladder Cancer: Epidemiological Features,"
  _American Journal Of Epidemiology_ 114 (1981): 229-233.

    A National Cancer Institute scientist's retrospective study
    (1964-75) of 114 dogs in which diagnoses of primary bladder cancer
    had been confirmed by biopsy. Of the 28 breeds represented in the
    study, "four... were identified with ex- cessive risk for bladder
    cancer and may serve as models for future research into genetic
    determinants." The breeds (in order): Cairns, Shelties, Scotties
    and Collies.

   CANINE HIP DYSPLASIA (CHD)

  Shook, Larry. _The Puppy Report_. Lyons & Burford, 1992.

    Contains tabulations of OFA data for breeds with over 100
    evaluations, Jan 1974-March 1979. During that period, 733 Shelties
    were OFA'd, 6.1% of which were found to be dysplastic.

   EYE DISEASE

  (Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Sheltie Eye Syndrome (SES), etc).

  "Eye Diseases of the Shetland Sheepdog in Australia." _Australian
  Veterinary Practitioner_ 22 (1992): 22

  Shook, Larry. _The Puppy Report_. Lyons & Burford, 1992.

    Shook's tabulations of 1989 CERF data reveal that in that year,
    1576 Shelties were tested by CERF ophthalmologists in the U.S. &
    Canada. 24% of the males and 27% of the females were found to be
    affected with some kind of eye problem. Altogether 221 conditions
    were found in the males, and 309 in the females (some Shelties had
    more than one condition).

   PDA

  Ackerman, Norman; Ronald Burk; Allen Wheeler, and Howard M Hayes Jr.
  "Patent Ductus Arteriosus in the Dog: a Retrospective Study of
  Radiographic, Epidemiologic, and Clinical Findings." _American Journal
  Of Veterinary Research_ 39 (1978): 1805-1810.

    This group reviewed epidemiologic features of 523 cases of dogs
    diagnosed with PDA which had been submitted to the National Cancer
    Institute's Veterinary Medical Data Program. They identified four
    breeds at high risk for PDA: Miniature and Toy Poodles,
    Pomeranians, and Shetland Sheepdogs.

   VON WILLEBRAND'S DISEASE (vWD)

  Avgeris, Sophia; Clinton D. Lothrop, Jr and T.P. McDonald. "Plasma von
  Willebrand factor concentration and thyroid function in dogs." JAVMA
  (_Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association_) 196 (March
  15, 1990): 921.

    Avgeris et al tested 30 dogs, half of which were suspected to have
    low thyroid function, and found these dogs to have lower mean vW
    factor:antigen than those with normal thyroid function. vWF:Ag
    increased in hypothyroid dogs treated with thyroxine.

  Brooks, Marjory W., W. Jean Dodds, and Sharon L. Raymond,
  "Epidemiologic Features of vWD in Doberman Pinchers, Scottish
  Terriers, and Shetland Sheepdogs," _JAVMA_ 200 (April, 1992): 1123-
  1127

    Between 1985-88, this team tested 4,249 Shelties and found 28% had
    abnormal vWF:Ag concentration (less than 50%). Moreover, during
    this period, significant increases in prevalence of this problem
    were observed among Shelties. Mean age for symptoms to show up in
    Shelties was 1.9 years. In affected dogs, bleeding was most
    commonly seen from mucosal surfaces and sites of surgery or trauma.
    In Shelties, mucosal bleeding typically came from the oral or nasal
    cavities.

  Raymond, Sharon, Douglas W. Jones, Marjory B. Brooks and W. Jean
  Dodds. "Clinical and Laboratory Features of a Severe Form of von
  Willebrand Disease in Shetland Sheepdogs." _JAVMA_ 197 (Nov 15, 1990):
  1342.

    This study focuses on 10 Shelties w/the most severe form of vWD,
    but also reports that 23% (1428) of the more than 6000 Shelties
    screened at their facility tested within the heterozygous carrier
    range for the most common type (I) of vWD.

   SKIN PROBLEMS

  Fortin, Guy. "Canine Familial Dermatomyositis: Clinical Case in a
  Shetland Sheepdog Puppy." _Medecin Veterinaire Du Quebec_ (Text in
  French w/English summary) 21 (1991): 8-9, 11.

    Describes the case history, clinical signs, diagnostic procedures
    and treatment of a Sheltie pup presented for a facial dermatosis.

  Hargis, Ann and Alan C. Mundell. "Familial Canine Dermatomyositis."
  _Compendium On Continuing Education For The Practicing Veterinarian_
  14 (July 1992): 885.

  Noxon, James O. and Ronald Myers. "Pemphigus Foliaceus in Two Shetland
  Sheepdog Littermates." _JAVMA_ 194 (1989): 545

   THYROID DISEASE

  See Avgeris et al above, under von Willebrand's Disease.

   OTHER

  Marks, Thomas A; Diana Schellenberg, Carl M. Metzler; Jo Oostveen and
  Mary Jane Morey. "Effect of dog food containing 460 parts- per-million
  fluoride on rat reproduction." _Journal Of Toxicology And
  Environmental Health_ 14 (1984): 707-714.

    What, you may be wondering, does this have to do with Shelties?
    Well, Shelties were the original "rats," and this report provides a
    rare example of a breeder who worked with the scientific community
    to solve a problem. The rat study was initiated at Moribrook
    Shelties in Allegan County MI as part of an investigation launched
    after 115 litters either were born deformed, or died shortly after
    birth. Moribrook was an old, established kennel, and the problems
    had come on suddenly. Moreover, when the sires and dams involved
    were shipped to other kennels, they reproduced normally. This
    suggested an environmental cause, and raised concerns about human
    health as well. Because some Shelties had developed mottled teeth
    and bony growths after eating food containing fluoride, the
    scientists wondered if fluoride was also implicated in their
    fertility problems. However, the study failed to bear this out, and
    the culprit later turned out to be chemicals polluting the water
    supply.

  Nakahata, K; Yuji Uzuka and H. Matsumoto. "Hyperkinetic Involuntary
  Movements in a Young Shetland Sheepdog." _Journal Of The American
  Animal Hospital Association_ 28 (1992): 347.

    Drug therapy did not improve the condition. Histologic examination
    of the brain revealed no significant abnormalities.

  Mauterer, J.V, Jr, R.G. Prata, C. Carberry and S. Schrader.
  "Displacement of the tendon of the superficial digital flexor muscle
  in dogs: 10 cases." _JAVMA_ 208 (1993): 1162-1165.

    Reports on 10 cases this team saw between 1983-91, four of which
    were in Shelties. Dogs did not respond satisfactorily to exercise
    restriction, bandaging and anti-inflammatories, but normal function
    returned following surgical reconstruction of the supporting soft
    tissues.

 Sheltie Rescue Sources

  A personal note: Between our breed's current popularity, and the
  disjointed times in which we live, many older Shelties become homeless
  these days, through no fault of their own. These second- hand dogs
  typically make wonderful pets, and some have gone on to become
  outstanding obedience and agility competitors as well. Although a
  little extra time and understanding are required to adjust an older
  Sheltie to their new situation, the investment is usually no more than
  would be necessary to train a new pup. And the returns, in the form of
  lifelong love and loyalty, are immeasurable. I know: all the
  Hearthside Shelties are "second- hand Roses." Please consider taking
  one of these displaced adults into your home and heart. Love IS better
  the second time around.

  American Shetland Sheepdog Association.
         ASSA National Rescue Coordinator is Dorothy Christiansen. Call
         her at (815) 485-3726 and she will put you in touch with local
         Sheltie club or other contacts in your area.

  Usenet's Rescue FAQ
         Provides a list of Rescue contacts by breed and region. You can
         obtain a copy of this file via anonymous ftp at rtfm.mit.edu
         under /pub/usenet/news.answers/dogs-faq/rescue/part2 Be aware
         that this info is sometimes out of date.

  Shelters
         Contact your nearest Humane Society, ASPCA or other shelter.
         They often work closely with local rescue groups.

  Dog clubs
         All-breed dog clubs, as well as breed specialty clubs, often
         have purebred rescue programs, or can put you in touch with the
         nearest club that offers this service.

 ASSA (American Shetland Sheepdog Association)

  Corresponding Secretary:
         George Page
         1100 Cataway Pl.
         Bryans Rd. MD 20666
         (301) 283-2275

  Note: There are currently 68 local Shetland Sheepdog clubs in the U.S.
  The ASSA Corresponding Secretary can provide contact info for the
  Sheltie Club nearest you.

  Herding:

         Nancy Vollmer
         P.O. Box 463030
         Escondido CA 92046-3030
         (619) 489-1818
         email: [email protected]

  Membership:
         Barb Gresso
         3602 112 St E
         Tacoma WA 98446
         (206) 531-2952

  Obedience:
         Christina Stoner
         410 West Road
         Roebuck SC 29376
         (803) 576-2294

  Publications:
         Dorothy Christiansen
         13520 Bruce Rd
         Lockport IL 65441
         (815) 485-3726
         See listing under Books & Pamphlets for more info on ASSA pubs.

  Rescue:
         Dorothy Christiansen
         address above
         (815) 485-3726

 Online information

  Sheltie-List
         Many Sheltie enthusiasts have discovered the electronic
         Sheltie-List, where information on training, grooming, feeding,
         medical problems and other concerns is interspersed with news
         and anecdotes about our favorite breed. The list is now owned
         by Farokh Irani, [email protected]. Send email to
         [email protected] with a simple SUBSCRIBE in the
         body of the message.

  Sheltie FAQ
         The latest Usenet version of this file is a hypertext document
         available via the Web at
         http://www.zmall.com/pet_talk/dog-faqs/breeds/shelties.hmtl The
         most recently posted ASCII version of this file is available
         via anonymous ftp to rtfm.mit.edu in the directory
         pub/usenet/news.answers/dogs-faq breeds. Other USENET dog FAQs
         are also available via these sources.

  Sheltie Websites
         Try:
         http://www.netrail.net/~toshntaz/sheltie.html
         http://www.magicnet.net/~michon/

  For a continually updated list of all canine-related mailing lists
  (including other breed lists), use one of the following:
   1. ftp to: rtfm.mit.edu
      The file is pub/usenet/news.answers/dogs-faq/email-lists
   2. email to: [email protected] Leave subject line blank In
      message body, write: send
      usenet/news.answers/dogs-faq/email-lists.

  There are many mailing lists of interest to Sheltie owners, including
  a variety of obedience lists, agility, tracking, herding, etc.
    _________________________________________________________________


   Shetland Sheepdog FAQ
   Beverly Miller, [email protected] or [email protected]