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Sheltie Movement To all who are familiar with the Shetland Sheepdog, or the 'Sheltie' is they are often referred to, know that the Sheltie is a wonderful companion and makes a wonderful herding dog. This is surely what they were bred for! They have a personality all of their own and this makes them a great trialler in both obedience and agility. They are obedient, agile, fast, and very eager to please. Shelties can run swiftly, jump obstacles and catch balls with the greatest of ease. The gait of the sheltie should be effortless and quick, not so that they can be entered in a Greyhound race. Their paws should just clear the ground during movement. No jerkiness or rolling from side to side, no stiffness, or hackneyed action (although this looks impressive). When looking at the sheltie from the front, the foot should be lifted only enough to clear the ground as the leg swings forward. Both forelegs and hindlegs should move forward almost perpendicular to ground at the walk, slanting a little inward at a slow trot, then at a fast trot the feet are brought so far inward toward the centre line of their body that two parallel lines of footprints actually touch a centre line at the inner edge. This is known as single tracking. If your sheltie crosses over their feet or throws weight from side to side he surely does not have the correct movement.The American and English Kennel Club share the same opinion - Faults - Stiff, short steps, with a choppy, jerky movement. Mincing steps, with a hopping up and down, or a balancing weight from side to side (otherwise known as a dancing gait, can often be seen in young puppies). Pacing, or a hacneyed-like action.
Kim at Kelanmee Shelties Southern Highlands, NSW, Australia Phone : 0402494358 Email : tresso@optusnet.com.au |
