How Are Shelties Different From Collies

Article Written By: traindogsandpuppies

Compared to the Sheltie, the Collie has been present in history books since the 17th century. 1655 wooden carvings show pictures of dogs that look identical to today s Collies. These herding dogs originated from Scotland. Initially, they were named Colleydogs” because of the duties they performed for their owners. Many farmers raised these puppies to later herd the sheep in the country s highlands. A colley is a black mask found on the sheep.

In the Shetland Islands, an antique copper etching dating back to 1840 contained pictures of a small dog. This was the first evidence of the Shetland sheepdog s heritage. Shelties also herded sheep but unlike its counterpart, the Collie, Shelties were used to keep sheep away from toons” or small villages. Collies herded sheep in the mountains, while Shelties herded sheep away from the crops. Sheep were notorious for eating what farmer s have planted. For this reason, Shelties were originally known as Toonie Dogs”.

Again, there is a resemblance in the coats but one can still tell them apart. The Collie s original colors were black and white, which no longer exists. Today s breed can come in blue merle, sable and tricolor. Collies used to be bred with the Gordon Setter which is responsible for the tricolor puppies. Coats of this breed can be long or short. The short-coated variety makes it look naked compared to its long-coated cousins.

The Sheltie s original shades were tan and white. This also no longer exists. Today s Shelties come in black and white, sable, tricolor and blue merle. Tales of how, a yacht that was visiting the islands left a King Charles Spaniel. This became the source of tricolor puppies. The gene could be traced back to that Spaniel. The Shetland Sheepdog should not have a short coat. It must have a harsh upper coat, in addition to the thick undercoat. Collies and Shelties both have rich coats. In the areas surrounding the head, chest and tail, the fur is especially thicker.

Probably the most obvious difference between the two breeds is the size. A Sheltie s height ranges between 35 and 39cm, depending on the sex. These dogs weigh 7-12 kg. Collies are much bigger. Their height range is 51-61cm at the shoulders. Ideally, a Collie s weight should be within 18-30kg.

Both dogs are known for their alertness, willingness to please their owners and for being active. Shelties, however, are a bit livelier compared to Collies.

About the Author

Lea Mullins, a long time dog owner, provides information on how are Shelties different from Collies. Visit TrainPetDog.com to learn about taking care of puppies.

You Can Link Directly to "How Are Shelties Different From Collies" by using the url:
http://www.allbestarticles.com//family/pets/how-are-shelties-different-from-collies.html

This Article Has Been Published on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 and Read 321 Times

Find All Best Articles at http://www.allbestarticles.com

Rating: Not yet rated

Comments

No comments posted.

Add Comment

You do not have permission to comment. If you log in, you may be able to comment.

Related information on Pets

A Pet Hotel Stay Can Improve Animal Behaviour
A Little Pet Care Can Go A Long Way
Ear Care for your Cocker Spaniel
How to stop your Cairn Terrier from Chasing
How To Keep Your Cairn Terrier Busy
Cairn Terrier Training. Stop Your Dog from Digging
Importance of a Veterinary Hospital Clinic
Is Your American Bulldog Teething?
Health Concerns in American Bulldogs
How to Identify a Reputable American Bulldog Breeder
Disabled Pet Dogs Can Socialize Too
Natural Instincts of Min Pins
Understanding your Miniature Pinscher Dog
How To Give Your Puppy A Bath
Neutering or Spaying Your Siberian Husky
Choose Natural Supplements For Your Dog's Health
What To Do When Your Dog Steals Food
How To Discourage Your Adult Canine From Mouthing
Why Your Puppy Barks When Strangers Are At The Door
Things You Need To Know Before Getting Yourself A Parrot
Havanese Training: Teach Your Dog To Play Tricks
Characteristics of a Havanese
People Food that are Poisonous to Dogs
Guarding Your Puppies In Winter
Why Should You Dress Your Bichon?