I love dogs-all different breeds of dogs-and I love portraying them in settings that show what they're born and bred to do. Here the Sheltie is doing what it does best: herding the sheep.

Known as a collie in miniature, the Shetland sheepdog, or Sheltie, is one of the most beautiful of all herding dogs. Bred true for over 125 years, the Sheltie originated in the Shetland Islands off the nothern coast of Scotland. Their inteligence, devotion and protectiveness have made the Sheltie a popular breed, with a strong, rugged character belying their fragile appearance. They are still used in parts of the world as sheepherders.

On one cold, blustery morning, I saw the determined Sheltie, impervious to the weather, following its instincts. For his patience, I was rewarded with the ideal setting for the Sheltie.

I've always thought of snowstorms as special-almost magical-and the visual excitement caught and held me; a swirling world of white and the watchful Sheltie, ever on the alert, guarding his charges. - JW