Originally Posted 2009/Updated January 2021

The Shetland Sheepdog standard establishes a size parameter for the breed as between 13" to 16 " at the shoulder. For most pet owners, size is not an issue because a Sheltie's lovable devotion, intelligence, and personality, the love they get from this new member of their family overrides any growth patterns, when nature does 'it's thing.' For others though, especially those considering a potential show dog, or having a definite size preference, how much a puppy grows is of critical importance in their purchasing decisions. Genetics, obviously, are of utmost importance when trying to determine a puppies growth characteristics and whether it will remain 'insize'. It is important to remember though, that

two insize parents, can, and often will produce offspring either  below, or above the standard! This is a breed just a little over a hundred years old, bred down originally from the rough collie. The charts below are breeder's aids developed through years of collecting data and trying to establish a way of determining if a promising young puppy does indeed warrant the time and effort to earn a spot as a show 'potential.'  Remember the key words are they are to be used as "aids" and are not absolutes. Should you have any questions about the growth characteristics of your puppy, you are best directed to forward your questions to the breeder whom you bought your puppy from.