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his hind foot and propel himself forward. Reach of stride of the foreleg is dependent upon correct angulation, musculation and ligamentation of the forequarters, together with correct width of chest and construction of rib cage. The foot should be lifted only enough to clear the ground as the leg swings forward. Viewed from the front, both forelegs and hindlegs should move forward almost perpendicular to ground at the walk, slanting a little inward at a slow trot, until at a swift trot the feet are brought so far inward toward center line of body that the tracks left show two parallel lines of footprints actually touching a center line at their inner edges. There should be no crossing of the feet nor throwing of the weight from side to side. Faults - Stiff, short steps, with a choppy, jerky movement. Mincing steps, with a hopping up and down, or a balancing of weight from side to side (often erroneously admired as a "dancing gait" but permissible in young puppies). Lifting of front feet in hackney-like action, resulting in loss of speed and energy. Pacing gait. Temperament: The Shetland Sheepdog is intensely loyal, affectionate, and responsive to his owner. However, he may be reserved toward strangers but not to the point of showing fear or cringing in the ring. Faults - Shyness, timidity, or nervousness. Stubbornness, snappiness, or ill temper.
Scale of Points General Appearance Symmetry
10
Temperament
10
Coat
5
25
Head Skull and stop
5
Muzzle
5
Eyes, ears and expression
10
20
Body Neck and back
5
Chest, ribs and brisket
10
Loin, croup and tail
5
20
Forequarters Shoulder
10
Forelegs and feet
5
15
Hindquarters Hip, thigh and stifle
10
Hocks and feet
5
15
Gait Gait -smoothness and lack of wasted
5
5
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