Icelandic Sheepdog | Dog Breed

Last updated May 29, 2024

Size

Varies

Popularity

One of the Most Popular

Typical Lifespan

About 12 years

Exercise

Icelandic Sheepdogs thrive with daily vigorous exercise, including long walks, active play sessions, and mental stimulation.

Grooming Needs

Icelandic Sheepdogs require regular brushing, at least a couple of times a week, to manage their double coat and reduce shedding, especially during seasonal changes. Regular ear checks and nail trimming are also essential.

Country of Origin

Iceland

Adaptability

The Icelandic Sheepdog is highly adaptable, thriving in both rural and urban environments, as long as it receives ample exercise and mental stimulation.

Shedding Level

Icelandic Sheepdogs shed moderately year-round, with increased shedding during seasonal changes.

Energiness

The Icelandic Sheepdog is very energetic and thrives on regular physical activity.

Vocality

Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for their frequent barking, often using their voice to communicate and alert their owners.

Trainability

Icelandic Sheepdogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to training, especially with positive reinforcement techniques.

Dietary Needs

Icelandic Sheepdogs need a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats to support their energy levels and maintain a healthy coat.

Weight Range

20-30 lbs

Child Friendliness

Child-Friendly

Social Needs

For Whom?

The Icelandic Sheepdog, an energetic and sociable companion, is best suited for a home where it can truly be part of the family's daily life. This breed does not thrive in an environment where it is left alone for long periods, as it loves to be surrounded by people and involved in everything possible. An active family that enjoys outdoor activities and is committed to regularly exercising and mentally stimulating their dog would be ideal.

Since the Icelandic Sheepdog is also an excellent watchdog, it is well-suited for a detached house with space to move around and the opportunity to keep an eye on its surroundings. A yard where it can run and play safely is a big plus, but not necessary if the family is willing to regularly take the dog somewhere it can expend its energy. The most important thing is that the Icelandic Sheepdog gets enough activities and companionship to prevent it from feeling lonely or bored.

Families with children are particularly good fits for the Icelandic Sheepdog, as it is protective and playful by nature. It loves to play with children and is a reliable partner in their adventures. Of course, as with all dog training, it is crucial to teach both children and the dog how to interact with each other safely and respectfully.

Ultimately, the Icelandic Sheepdog adapts well to various conditions, provided it receives enough love, attention, and activities. Its owner should understand and appreciate the breed's active and intelligent nature and be willing to invest time and energy into the dog's well-being.

Character

Affectionate

Energetic

Loyal

Playful

The Icelandic Sheepdog exudes a strong sense of community and work ethic. Originating from the harsh landscapes of Iceland, it has herded sheep and served as a reliable helper to farmers for centuries. This historical background is still evident in the breed today; the Icelandic Sheepdog is alert, intelligent, and eager to work, always ready to meet challenges and assist its owner.

The nature of the Icelandic Sheepdog combines friendliness and unreservedness. It is a social and loving family member that forms deep bonds with its people and wants to be involved in all aspects of family life. Its owner can always rely on it for joyful companionship, ready to chase a ball or learn new tricks. It is also an excellent companion for children, offering both playful and protective company.

While the Icelandic Sheepdog enjoys being close to people, it is also independent and confident. It can make its own decisions and work independently, which makes it an excellent herding dog. However, this trait requires owners to provide consistent and understanding training so the dog learns when to work independently and when to listen to human commands.

Thanks to its intelligence and eagerness to learn, the Icelandic Sheepdog is easy to train. It enjoys learning new skills and always wants to please its owner. The breed's strong guarding instinct also makes it a good watchdog, alerting with its bark if anything unusual happens in its territory.

The energy and playfulness of the Icelandic Sheepdog mean that it needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental exercises are important for the well-being of this breed. Despite its love for outdoor activities, the Icelandic Sheepdog is also a master at enjoying quiet moments alongside its family. It knows how to curl up in your lap and offer gentle closeness when it craves human companionship.

The Icelandic Sheepdog is not just a pet; it is a full-fledged family member that brings a sense of love and loyalty. Its zest for life and readiness for action easily rub off on the people around it, and it is always ready to share both the big and small adventures of life with you.

History

The Icelandic Sheepdog, locally known as Íslenskur fjárhundur, is one of Iceland's national treasures with a history that dates back to the Viking era. These loyal and brave dogs arrived in the northern island nation with Norwegian settlers around the 800s, a time when Iceland was still uninhabited. From the beginning, the Icelandic Sheepdog has been an indispensable helper in the harsh conditions of the island; they have assisted in herding sheep, horses, and other livestock across Iceland's vast pastures and mountainous landscapes.

Due to Iceland's harsh weather conditions, the characteristics of the Icelandic Sheepdog have evolved to be strong and durable. Their dense coat protects them from the cold and moisture, and their natural instinct and intelligence have made them skilled and independent working dogs. The Icelandic Sheepdogs have always been known for their ability to work independently, yet they have maintained a strong bond and loyalty towards humans.

Over the centuries, the Icelandic Sheepdogs have been an essential part of the daily life in Icelandic agricultural communities. They have helped survive challenging conditions, and their role as shepherd dogs has been vital to the island's economy. The Icelandic Sheepdogs have not only herded animals but also protected them from predators and guided them to safety in Iceland's varied and sometimes dangerous landscapes.

In the early 20th century, the number of Icelandic Sheepdogs alarmingly decreased, and the breed was at risk of extinction. Fortunately, Icelandic dog lovers and breeders woke up to protect this unique heritage. Thanks to their efforts, the population of the Icelandic Sheepdog was revived, and today the breed has reestablished its position in the Icelandic countryside.

While Icelandic Sheepdogs remain popular working dogs in Iceland, they have also found their way into homes around the world. Their gentle nature and adaptability have made them beloved companion dogs. The story of the Icelandic Sheepdog is a testament to how close cooperation between humans and dogs has shaped the breed over millennia, and how it has survived and adapted to changing conditions while retaining its unique character and ability to be man's best friend.