ABOUT SHETLAND SHEEPDOG
The Shetland Sheepdog’s origins date back several centuries to the remote Shetland Islands of Scotland, where it was developed as a hardy and versatile herding breed. It is believed to descend from small Collie-type dogs that were bred to work in the rugged island terrain, managing flocks of sheep and protecting farmland. These early Shelties were likely influenced by Scandinavian herding dogs brought by early settlers, resulting in the intelligent, agile, and devoted breed we know today.
The Shetland Sheepdog is a multifunctional working dog historically used for herding livestock, guarding property, and providing companionship. Though smaller in stature compared to other herding breeds, the Sheltie has a graceful and athletic appearance, marked by its elegant coat and alert expression. On average, the Sheltie stands 33–41 centimetres at the withers and weighs 6–12 kilos, making it an ideal size for both active work and family life.
Highly intelligent and eager to please, the Sheltie is a cooperative breed that responds well to training. Its natural desire to work and bond with its owner makes it perfect for basic obedience, advanced tricks, and even complex task-related learning. The Sheltie excels in a wide range of canine sports, including agility, obedience, rally, and herding trials, where it consistently demonstrates exceptional focus and enthusiasm.
Despite being alert and responsive, the Shetland Sheepdog has a generally gentle and reserved nature, especially with strangers. They are not overly barky unless they perceive a reason to alert their owners—such as an unfamiliar person or sound. Once bonded with their family, Shelties are extremely loyal and affectionate, often becoming shadow-like companions who want to stay close to their owners throughout the day.
Most Shelties thrive on affection and enjoy cuddle time with their family members. However, their desire for closeness can vary depending on the dog’s individual temperament and the nurturing environment provided by the owner. With proper socialization and training from a young age, Shelties can develop into well-adjusted, loving, and people-oriented pets.
The breed is typically friendly with other dogs and household pets, but some younger male Shelties may show a bit of assertiveness toward other male dogs. Consistent early socialization is crucial in raising a confident and friendly Sheltie.
The Shetland Sheepdog has a dense double coat that requires regular grooming. Shelties shed moderately year-round and more heavily during spring and autumn, when daily brushing is recommended to manage loose fur and maintain coat health. In conformation shows, Shelties are usually presented with their full coats and only minimal trimming, a grooming style that is also encouraged for those kept as family companions.
HOW WE BECAME SHELTIE BREEDERS
Thanks for visiting our website. My name is Lucas Bennett, and I’m proud to share that the Bennetts family are the owners of Bennetts Sheltie puppies. We have been lovingly breeding this remarkable dog breed since 2017. As passionate pet lovers, my wife and I took the initiative to raise Shetland Sheepdogs in order to help families who want to welcome a new, loyal, and intelligent companion into their homes.
Over the years, my understanding and appreciation for the Shetland Sheepdog or Sheltie has only deepened. These dogs are incredibly smart, always teaching us something new, and never failing to amaze us with their devotion and charm.
My personal journey with dogs began during the Christmas holidays when I was 10 years old. That year, my parents gifted me my very first Sheltie puppy, whom I lovingly named Liam. Liam was more than just a pet—he gave me a lifetime of childhood memories. He was gentle, friendly, and always knew how to cheer me up, especially during tough times. I used to think he could speak, because he understood me so well. I often found myself talking to him, secretly hoping he would respond. Wherever I went, Liam followed—he was my constant companion.
Later in life, I met my wife in college. We became close friends, and she instantly bonded with Liam. Her love for him was so strong that she eventually convinced her parents to get her a Sheltie too. Our dogs would play together for hours, and through them, our love for this amazing breed—and each other—only grew stronger. Sadly, during our later college years, I lost my beloved Liam. It was a difficult time, but my wife and I shared a deep love for Shelties that carried us forward.
After getting married, we decided to turn that love into a lifelong passion—breeding and raising Shetland Sheepdogs, while also educating fellow dog lovers about what makes Shelties such an exceptional breed.
Today, we raise our two children and our beautiful Shelties on 3 acres of open land, giving our dogs the space they need to run, play, and thrive. We are deeply committed to helping every family find the perfect, healthy Sheltie puppy to bring home. With a lifetime of experience and affection for the breed, we truly believe Shetland Sheepdogs are among the best family companions you can own.
We dedicate our time to proper training, early socialization, and nurturing each puppy’s personality to ensure they become intelligent, confident, and loving pets. If you’re looking for a family-friendly, loyal, and trainable dog, you’ve come to the right place.
Visit our Available Puppies page to meet the amazing Sheltie puppies waiting to find their forever homes!
