The Shetland Sheepdog often known as the Sheltie is a breed of herding dog. They are small to medium dogs and come in a variety of colors such as sable-white tri-color and blue merle. They are vocal excitable energetic dogs who are always willing to please and work hard. They are partly derived from dogs used in the Shetland Isles for herding and protecting sheep. The breed was formally recognized by the Kennel Club in 1909. The Shetland Sheepdog's early history is not well-known.