Sheltie-Kee

The Sheltie-kee is a relatively new hybrid breed that was created in the United States sometime in the early 2000's. He is a mix of the Shetland Sheepdog and the Keeshond breeds, both of which have a rich, and interesting history. In order to learn more about the Sheltie-kee and why he may have been brought into existence, we can look at the parent breed's history. From their origins we can learn which dogs are part of the Sheltie-kee's ancestry and what traits will be the most predominate in his personality. For instance, the Shetland Sheepdog is a breed that's comprised of dogs such as the Pomeranian, larger Collie, and King Charles Spaniel. He has gone by many different names in the past like the Fairy Dog and Miniature Collie, but his actual name is taken from his home on the Shetland Islands. As a small area, it isn't surprising that the people there would want small dogs with big personalities who could help them with herding the sheep and guarding their homes. Visitors who came to the Shetland Islands naturally fell in love with the gorgeous dogs and took them as souvenirs back to their respective homelands; in this way, the Shetland Sheepdog made his way around the world. Eventually, the breed made it's way to the United States where the American Kennel Club accepted him as an official breed in the year 1911. Ever since, the Sheltie has been used as a show dog, farm hand, and companion animal. Known most for his spectacle like markings and fluffy fur, the Keeshond is quite the stunning figure. Created sometime in the late 1700's, the Keeshond hails from the land of Amsterdam. The Dutch dog made his living by riding on barges that crossed back and forth upon the Rhine River acting as a watchdog and companion to the captains of those barges. While their frequent travels made them well-known around the outside areas around Amsterdam, the Keeshond really increased in popularity after political turmoil hit Holland in the late 18th century. The little dogs became somewhat of a symbol for the Patriot movement, however when the Patriots were defeated, the Keeshond went down with them; almost becoming extinct because of it. Thankfully the breed was saved in the 1920's when a Baroness took interest in the unique breed and brought them back to their former glory. Just a few years later, the American Kennel Club accepted the Keeshond as on official breed and they have been showing and living as companion dogs ever since.