Frequently Asked Questions About My Toy Sized Shetland Sheepdogs
Find clear, friendly answers to your most common questions about our Toy Shelties and services.
I keep reading Toy Sheltie breeders saying they are breeding back to the original UK size but the UK standards are for dogs 1/2 inch larger than US?
The Shetland Sheepdog descends from small Scottish Collie specimens. Originally, they were small mixed-breed dogs, typically standing only 8 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. It is believed that the original Shetland herding dogs were of the Spitz type and were crossed with various local breeds or those arriving by sea. Unlike many miniature breeds that simply mimic their larger counterparts, the Shetland Sheepdog was not created just by breeding smaller Rough Collies. In the early 20th century, James Loggie introduced a small Rough Collie into the breeding program, helping to establish the modern Shetland Sheepdog. Breeders of toy-sized Shelties aimed to preserve the classic Rough Collie and Shetland Sheepdog appearance in the smaller size that Shetland Sheepdogs originally had, likely before larger Rough Collies were introduced into the bloodlines.
What makes LaLa’s Lilliputian Lassies’ Shelties unique?
We specialize in breeding healthy, toy sized Shelties with excellent health and temperament. I carefully selected my dogs from breeders that health test and have been specializing in undersized shelties for decades. I will not breed a dog that is even a carrier of a known health issue.
What does “Limited” Registration Actually MEAN? What is the difference between Limited and Full Registration?
Dogs with full registration are eligible to compete in conformation shows and may be used for breeding. In contrast, dogs with limited registration are not allowed to participate in conformation events or breeding, and their offspring cannot be registered. This system helps breeders exercise greater control over the breeding process, encouraging responsible practices. Additionally, dogs with limited registration can be upgraded to full registration if they meet health testing standards and achievements approved by the breeder and have been sterilized. Most pet puppies are usually sold with limited registration.
How do you ensure the health of your puppies?
All puppies undergo thorough health checks and are raised in a loving, clean environment with regular veterinary care. They do not touch the floor or go outside in the outdoor puppy pen until after their 1st set of shots. They do not get to run in the yard until after their 2nd set of shots.
What about untestable issues and lifespans?
While I am not new to responsible pet care, or responsible breeding, I am fairly new to breeding toy sized shelties. There are many health conditions that, while assumed to be heritable, are not yet able to be tested for. These conditions include cancers, epilepsy, allergies, autoimmune diseases, bloat and pyometra, among others. The breeders I got my dogs from assured me that with the occasional exception of developing allergies, none of these issues have been present in their lines to their knowledge. (They are breeders that keep up with their babies even after they are placed.) Their average lifespans seem to be 12-14 years, with lots of stories of ones that lived longer. It’s still never long enough! HEALTH was my TOP PRIORITY when I chose to get a smaller breed than my 85lb+ wolfdogs.
Can I visit the puppies before making a decision?
Yes, we welcome visits by appointment so you can meet the puppies and parents. All my dogs are in my home. My husband and I take care of everyone. We do not have puppy raisers or alternate homes to meet at. At this time. you can meet Kaizen, Zyla, Blossom and Glori. Before 2026, there will hopefully be a new boy coming!
What support do you offer new puppy owners?
We provide ongoing guidance on care, training, and health to ensure your new companion thrives in your home. We have a Facebook group (Kaizens Kids) that is only for parents of my puppies. People can share pictures, and stories and compare notes on their babies from me. I can also help with training, both in person and remotely and can Evaluate and sign off on many AKC accomplishments. For those that live close enough that it is feasible, I offer lifetime $10/night In My Home Boarding for all my babies (if they have an adoptive sibling, I will even give you a reduced rate on them too, no need to separate them!)
Lassie is a COLLIE! WHY Would you call your kennel name after a famous COLLIE?
My answer is simple. Shetland Sheepdogs are SUPPOSED to resemble Collies. I waited 2 years for Kaizen because I wanted my perfect little cat sized Lassie. My babies look like Little Lassies, just like they should. The breeds are absolutely NOT the same, Shetland Sheepdogs are NOT just small Rough Collies…but the appearance is MEANT to be similar. See the AKC’s
Official Standard of the Shetland Sheepdog
General Appearance: Preamble – The Shetland Sheepdog, like the Collie, traces to the Border Collie of Scotland, which, transported to the Shetland Islands and crossed with small, intelligent, long-haired breeds, was reduced to miniature proportions. Subsequently crosses were made from time to time with Collies. This breed now bears the same relationship in size and general appearance to the Rough Collie…
Have More Questions?
Don’t hesitate to reach out anytime for friendly support and inquiries.