Cheeks are flat. Lips are tight and black. The Shetland Sheepdog has a complete set of evenly spaced, white teeth meeting in a scissors bite. The nose is black, and projects somewhat over the mouth. EYES - Correct eye color, shape and placement is essential to proper Sheltie expression, which is alert, intelligent, and gentle.
Eyes are medium in size, almond shaped, and set somewhat obliquely.
The inner corner of the eye marks the central point of the stop. Eye color is dark brown, except that blue merles, sable merles, and predominately whites with merle coloration on the head may have one or both eyes blue or flecked with blue. Eyerims are black. Haw should not be visible. EARS - Correct ear set and carriage are essential to proper Sheltie expression.