Though the origin of the breed is in question, it is known that many of the working Collies of Scotland came to the Shetland Isles to herd the sheep. The smaller version developed there in the rough climate that wasn't kind to man or beast. The breed was free to develop in relative isolation because of this and didn't come to notice until the twentieth century. They were officially recognized in England as a breed in 1909, though they were first listed as Shetland Collies. The name was changed in 1914 at the behest of Collie breeders. In the US, their recognition came in 1911 and the first Shetland Sheepdog specialty was in 1933. The accepted standard describing the breed states that it should resemble the Rough Collie only in miniature. Because of a nature that was eager to please, they have an ease in training that has brought them to the top in the Obedience ring. Their guarding instinct, honed by generations, makes them excellent watchdogs, protecting their family as naturally as they did their flocks from invaders of any kind. They are the perfect pet for an active family since they have a joy of running and jumping that works well in playing with children and a devoted, docile nature and high, almost human, intelligence and understanding.
If you would like to knit the charted pattern for the Shetland Sheepdog, go to http://www.kanineknits.com/kanine_knits_knitting_patterns.htm
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