Shetland's entry standards

Shetland's entry criteria:

1. Shetland's shoulder height is about 13 to 16 inches. The height at the withers is measured as the vertical distance from the top of the shoulder blades to the ground when the dog is standing naturally, with the forelegs parallel to the vertical. Overall, the body length (distance from front of shoulders to end of pelvis) appears to be slightly longer, due to the proper width and angulation of the shoulders and croup, while the back itself is rather short. Once the shoulder height exceeds or is not enough, it will be defined as a disqualification.

2. Shetland Head When viewed from above and in profile, the shape of the head is a long, blunt wedge tapering from ear to nose.

3. Shetland's expression is usually alert, gentle, intelligent and questioning. The eyes are alert, reserved, but never afraid of strangers.

4. Shetland eyes should be medium in size, dark in color, almond-shaped, and set slightly obliquely. The eye color of the Shetland must be dark black, except that blue or marble eyes are permitted in the marbled dogs. Shetland's ears are relatively small and flexible, set high, 3/4 erect, with the tip folded forward. When in repose, the ears are folded back and tumbled into the feathering.

5. The Shetland neck is muscular and of sufficient length to carry the head proudly. The back is level and muscular, neither too long nor too short. At the same time, the Shetland's waist should be slightly arched, and the hips should gradually slope back. The hip bone forms a 30-degree angle to the spine. If the croup is higher than the withers, if the croup is too flat or too steep, it is a disqualification.

6. The shetland tail is fairly long, and when it hangs down the hind legs, the end of the tailbone extends at least to the hock joint. When at rest the tail is carried in a straight droop, or with a slight curve. When he is alert, the tail is usually carried, but never over the back. A short tail or a twisted tail at the end is a disqualification.