About the Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog, Iceland’s only native purebred, is a lively, intelligent, and affectionate Nordic breed. Known for its agility, herding abilities, and friendly disposition, the “Icie” has served as a loyal companion and working dog in the island nation for centuries. The breed has a keen sense of duty, which has made it useful for herding and guarding livestock, particularly sheep. The breed has a thick double coat, which helps it thrive in colder climates, and its expressive, cheerful demeanor endears it to families and farmers alike.

AKC Group

Herding

Height

16.5 – 18 Inches

Weight

25 – 30 Pounds

Lifespan

12 – 14 Years

History of the Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog, with its cheerful disposition and keen herding instincts, boasts a rich history that is intricately tied to the landscapes and culture of Iceland. The breed is believed to have accompanied the Vikings, specifically the Norwegians, on their journey to Iceland over a thousand years ago. Serving as herding dogs, this breed played a crucial role in the agricultural practices of early Icelandic settlers.

With an ancestry that includes dogs from Scandinavia, the Icelandic Sheepdog was adept at handling the harsh weather conditions and challenging terrain of Iceland. The primary historic role of the dogs was to herd sheep, cattle, and horses, showcasing their versatility and endurance. The breed’s distinctive appearance, characterized by its thick coat, pricked ears, and curled tail, was well-suited for the cold Icelandic climate, providing necessary protection against the elements.

Over the centuries, the Icelandic Sheepdog became an integral part of Icelandic culture and farming practices. Their friendly nature and loyalty to their human companions further solidified their status as beloved members of the community. However, the breed has faced challenges, including periods of disease and attempts to reduce the dog population due to concerns over sheep predation. Despite these setbacks, the breed has persevered, with dedicated enthusiasts working tirelessly to preserve and promote its interests.

Official recognition of the breed came about in the 20th century, with it gaining acknowledgment from various kennel clubs and breed organizations. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Icelandic Sheepdog in 2010, a significant milestone that helped to raise awareness and interest in the breed across the United States.

Today, the Icelandic Sheepdog stands as a testament to its rich heritage, embodying the resilience, strength, and companionship that have defined the breed for centuries. Today, the dogs’ role has expanded beyond herding, with many Icies excelling in dog sports, serving as Therapy Dogs, and, most importantly, being cherished as lovable family members. The preservation and celebration of breed’s history remain a priority for breeders and kennel clubs worldwide, ensuring that future generations can experience the joy and companionship of this unique Nordic breed.

General Appearance

Height & Weight

Adult male Icelandic Sheepdogs generally stand about 18 inches tall at the shoulder, while mature females are slightly smaller, typically measuring around 16.5 inches in height.

The weight range for males is usually around 30 pounds, whereas females tend to weigh less at around 25 pounds.

Proportion & Substance

The Icelandic Sheepdog presents a rectangular body, with a length that is longer than the height. These dogs possess a robust and muscular build, reflecting their capabilities as a herding breed and watchdog. The chest is deep, extending down to the elbows, and the ribs are well-sprung. The back is level, muscular, and strong. The breed’s substance is solid without appearing heavy, showcasing a harmonious balance that enables these dogs to move with power and agility.

Coat Texture, Colors & Markings

Texture: The Icelandic Sheepdog exhibits a luxurious double coat that is tailored to withstand the challenging Icelandic climate. The breed presents itself in two distinct coat varieties – long-haired and short-haired. Regardless of the length, both varieties possess a dense, water-resistant undercoat that provides insulation from cold temperatures and protects it from wet conditions. The outer coat is fairly coarse on both varieties. It lies down on the back and forms a mane on the neck and shoulders, features that contribute to the breed’s ability to withstand the island’s harsh elements.

A Note About Color: Several coat colors are acceptable in the breed and all are accompanied by white markings. These markings may be irregular and are most commonly found on the face, collar, chest, socks, and tip of the tail. A black mask and black tips are sometimes seen on tan and gray dogs. Tri-colored dogs have tan points on the cheeks, over the eyes, and on the legs. Pied dogs are acceptable, although the white should not be predominant.

Head

• Skull: The skull of the Icelandic Sheepdog is fairly well developed and slightly domed, although it is not overly broad. It is slightly longer than the muzzle, with a well-defined stop. It gives an impression of strength without heaviness, contributing to the breed’s overall balanced appearance.
• Expression: The Icie carries a keen and lively expression, showcasing its intelligent and friendly disposition. The eyes sparkle with curiosity and eagerness, reflecting the breed’s affectionate nature and its ability to strongly bond with its human family.
• Eyes: The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and set well apart. They display a clear, bright, and expressive look, often mirroring the dog’s emotions. The eye rims are black or dark brown, depending on the coat color, creating a striking contrast and adding to their expressive quality.
• Ears: The ears are of medium size, triangular in shape, and stand erect. They are firm, though not too thick, and have slightly rounded tips. The ears contribute significantly to the breed’s alert and attentive expression, showcasing both readiness and enthusiasm.
• Muzzle: The muzzle is strong, shorter than the skull, and tapers gradually towards the nose. It is well-filled under the eyes, providing a smooth transition from the skull to the muzzle.
• Nose: The nose is black or dark brown in color, harmoniously complementing the coloration of the coat. The nasal bridge is well-developed and straight, contributing to the breed’s typical spitz-like appearance.
• Bite: The Icelandic Sheepdog has complete dentition and a scissor bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors. This type of bite ensures a strong and efficient grip, reflecting the breed’s usefulness as a herding dog.

Tail

The Icelandic Sheepdog has a high-set tail that is abundantly covered with hair, contributing a very busky appearance. In moments of alertness or excitement, the tail curls and touches the back. A saber-like tail is unacceptable in the breed. When relaxed, the tail may hang casually, but it should return to a curl when the dog is moving.

The tail is an important feature of the breed and is never docked. Its natural length and fullness are essential for maintaining the breed’s usefulness as a herder in cold climates and for honoring its rich and ancient heritage.

The Icelandic Sheepdog – What to Consider?

The lively and affectionate Icelandic Sheepdog has captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the world. However, as with any dog, there are certain responsibilities and considerations that come with ownership that will encourage a harmony for both the dog and its human family.

Icelandic Sheepdog Health

The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally robust, with a resilient constitution that speaks to its herding heritage. Nevertheless, as is the case with all dogs, there are certain health conditions to which individuals of the breed may be predisposed. Potential owners should be mindful of these conditions and work in close partnership with both a reputable breeder and a veterinarian to safeguard the health of their dog.

Lifespan: On average, the lifespan of an Icelandic Sheepdog ranges from 12 to 15 years. With appropriate care, routine veterinary exams, and a balanced diet, many can live to the upper end of this range.

Potential Health Risks

Icelandic Sheepdogs are generally robust and healthy, but like all breeds and mixed breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Being aware of these potential risks is crucial for prospective owners who aim to provide the best possible care. Some of the issues that can affect the breed include:

• Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary condition where the thigh bone doesn’t fit properly into the hip joint. It can lead to pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. Responsible breeders will screen their breeding dogs for the disease, ensuring that affected dogs are not used in a breeding program.
• Cataracts: This condition causes clouding of the lens in the eye, leading to impaired vision and possible blindness. Cataracts can sometimes be surgically removed to improve vision.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Icelandic Sheepdogs can be prone to various autoimmune disorders, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Management of these conditions generally involves medication and close monitoring by a veterinarian.

Ensuring that the Icelandic Sheepdog undergoes regular veterinary check-ups is vital for early detection and effective management of these and other health conditions.

Icelandic Sheepdog Personality

The Icelandic Sheepdog is known for its friendly, energetic, and affectionate personality. These dogs form strong bonds with their human companions and are generally great with children, making them an excellent choice as a family companion. Their herding instincts can sometimes lead to them trying to herd other pets or even people, but this is typically done in a gentle manner.

These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which can make them relatively easy to train. Their energy and enthusiasm, however, requires a patient and consistent training approach. Icelandic Sheepdogs tend to get along well with other dogs, but as with any dog, early socialization is key to ensuring they are well-adjusted and comfortable in a variety of situations.

While they can tolerate being alone for short periods, Icelandic Sheepdogs are social animals that thrive on interaction and companionship. They are not well-suited to being left alone for extended periods of time, and they can become bored or anxious if they do not have enough to do. Providing them with toys, puzzles, and other forms of mental stimulation can help to keep them happy and engaged.

In terms of their approach to strangers, Icelandic Sheepdogs can be friendly and welcoming, but they are also protective of hearth and home. They are likely to bark when someone approaches their property, which makes them good watchdogs. However, they are not typically aggressive and will usually warm up to strangers once they realize there is no threat.

Overall, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a joyful, loving, and active breed that can make a wonderful addition to the right home. These attractive dogs require regular exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of love and attention from their human companions to thrive. In return, they offer an endless supply of loyalty, companionship, and affection.

Icelandic Sheepdog Feeding & Nutrition

Proper nutrition plays a critical role in the health and well-being of an Icelandic Sheepdog. These energetic dogs require a balanced diet rich in proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to support their active lifestyle. It is crucial to choose high-quality commercial dog food or consult with a veterinarian for a homemade diet that meets their nutritional needs.

When it comes to feeding puppies, it is recommended to divide their daily food intake into three to four smaller meals. Puppies have smaller stomachs and higher energy requirements, so more frequent meals help support their growth and development. Adult Icelandic Sheepdogs, on the other hand, can be fed twice a day.

The amount of food an Icelandic Sheepdog requires depends on their age, size, metabolism, and activity level. On average, an adult Icelandic Sheepdog may require 2 to 3 cups of dry dog food per day. However, this is a general guideline, and it’s essential to monitor your dog’s condition and adjust their food intake as necessary to maintain a healthy weight.

Obesity can be a significant health problem in dogs, and it’s important to avoid overfeeding. Treats can be an essential aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet, consult with a veterinarian.

Ensuring access to fresh, clean water at all times is also vital for your dog’s health. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially for active breeds like the Icelandic Sheepdog.

Icelandic Sheepdog Training

The Icelandic Sheepdog is known for its intelligence and eagerness to please, making training a generally rewarding experience. However, this breed also possesses a strong herding instinct and may attempt to herd people, especially children, and other animals. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to channel their energy positively and prevent undesirable behaviors.

These dogs respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, treats, and play. Harsh training methods are not suitable for this breed, as they are sensitive and can become discouraged if treated harshly. Consistency and patience are key when training an Icelandic Sheepdog.

Barking is a natural behavior for the Icelandic Sheepdog, and they can be quite vocal. They tend to bark to alert their owners of anything unusual, and while this can be beneficial, it’s important to teach them to stop barking on command. This ensures that their vocalizations do not become a nuisance.

The breed’s intelligence means they are quick learners, but they also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Puzzle toys, games, and training sessions can provide the necessary mental exercise.

Though they do not have a strong wanderlust potential, their herding instinct may kick in if they see something that catches their interest. A secure, fenced yard and leash training are important to keep them safe and prevent them from chasing after moving objects.

In terms of predation, the Icelandic Sheepdog has a moderate prey drive. While they can live harmoniously with other pets, introducing them slowly and supervised is essential, especially with smaller animals.

Icelandic Sheepdog Exercise

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a breed brimming with energy and vitality, necessitating ample exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Their heritage as working dogs is evident in their stamina and enthusiasm for activity.

Engaging the Icelandic Sheepdog in daily exercise routines is paramount. A combination of walks, play sessions, and mentally stimulating activities will help channel their energy positively. This breed exhibits a high energy level, thriving on activities that keep them moving and engaged.

The intensity of their exercise should match their high energy levels. Activities like hiking, running, and agility training are excellent ways to expend their energy and provide the necessary physical stimulation. Icelandic Sheepdogs also show a natural aptitude for herding, and participation in herding trials can be a great way to engage their instincts and provide exercise.

Playfulness is a prominent trait in Icelandic Sheepdogs, and they enjoy interactive games with their human companions. Fetch, tug-of-war, and puzzle toys can keep them entertained and mentally sharp.

Incorporating exercise into the daily routine is crucial, as a lack of physical activity can lead to boredom and potentially destructive behaviors. Providing a variety of activities and consistent exercise routines will ensure that the Icelandic Sheepdog remains happy, healthy, and well-behaved.

Owners should be mindful of the physical demands on puppies and young dogs, as their growing bodies are more susceptible to injury. Adjusting exercise intensity and duration to suit their development stage is essential.

Icelandic Sheepdog Grooming

The Icelandic Sheepdog, with its thick double coat, requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance. This breed experiences seasonal shedding, and during these periods, more frequent brushing is necessary to remove loose fur and prevent matting.

Despite their abundant coat, Icelandic Sheepdogs are relatively easy to groom. A weekly brushing routine suffices for most of the year, helping to distribute natural oils, keep the coat clean, and reduce shedding. During shedding seasons, which typically occur in spring and fall, daily brushing becomes essential to manage the increased volume of loose hair.

Their coat does not tend to hold dirt and debris, and Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for being clean dogs. Baths are required only occasionally, depending on the dog’s lifestyle and exposure to dirt. Overbathing should be avoided, as it can strip the coat of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

Apart from coat care, routine maintenance tasks such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are vital. Regular nail trims prevent painful overgrowth and cracking. Checking the ears weekly for signs of infection, irritation, or wax buildup and cleaning them as needed helps maintain ear health. Implementing a dental care routine, including brushing and providing dental chews, contributes to overall health and prevents dental issues.

Incorporating grooming into their routine from a young age helps them become accustomed to the process, making it a positive experience for both the dog and the owner. It also provides an opportunity to check for any signs of health issues, such as skin problems, lumps, or infections, ensuring early detection and intervention.

Living with an Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a versatile breed that adapts well to various living environments, but there are specific considerations to ensure they thrive in their home.

When it comes to apartment living, Icelandic Sheepdogs can adapt if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. However, their tendency to be vocal could pose a challenge, making training to manage barking essential. A quiet command and providing ample activities to keep them engaged can help mitigate excessive barking.

This breed possesses a thick double coat that provides ample protection in cold weather, making them well-suited to cooler climates. They enjoy playing in the snow, and their energy levels make them enthusiastic participants in winter activities. However, it’s important to provide shelter and warmth during extremely low temperatures to ensure their safety and comfort.

In contrast, their thick coat can make them prone to overheating in hot weather. Providing shade, fresh water, and limiting exercise during the hottest parts of the day are crucial to prevent heatstroke. Owners might also consider indoor activities or water play to help keep them cool.

The breed’s playful and energetic nature makes them excellent companions for active individuals or families. Their affectionate and friendly demeanor means they usually get along well with children, provided interactions are supervised, and children are taught how to interact respectfully with dogs.

Icelandic Sheepdog Puppies

Welcoming a litter of Icelandic Sheepdog puppies into the world is an exciting adventure that is filled with much joy and a few challenges. These puppies are known for their playful, energetic, and affectionate nature, making them delightful partners as working dogs and companions in the home.

From the moment they arrive, these puppies require proper care, attention, and training to ensure they grow into well-adjusted and healthy adult dogs. Socialization is only one crucial aspect of their development. Exposing them to various people, environments, and situations in a positive and controlled manner helps in building their confidence and molding their temperament.

Caring for an Icelandic Sheepdog Puppy

Caring for an Icelandic Sheepdog puppy entails meeting its specific nutritional, exercise, and healthcare needs. Providing a balanced diet that is  formulated for puppies is vital for growth and development. It is important to feed the appropriate amount as indicated for the pup’s age, size, and activity level, and to provide several smaller-sized meals each day.

Exercise is an integral part of any puppy’s routine, but it is important to remember that a growing body is susceptible to injury. It is best to engage the pup in gentle play sessions and short walks, avoiding high-impact activities until it is fully grown. As the puppy matures, increases in the duration and intensity of exercise can be implemented.

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor the puppy’s development, administer vaccinations, and address any potential health issues early on. Establishing a grooming routine from a young age will help it to become accustomed to being handled and will ensure the pup’s coat remains in top condition.

Training and socialization should start early, utilizing positive reinforcement methods to encourage good behavior and build a strong bond between the Icelandic sheepdog puppy and its family. Although the pup is intelligent and eager to please, making it responsive to training, it also has an independent streak that requires patience and consistency.

Icelandic Sheepdog Activities & Dog Sports

The Icelandic Sheepdog is an energetic and intelligent breed that participates in many dog sports. Engaging in these activities not only provides  the dog with the physical exercise it needs, it also offers mental stimulation that is crucial for the breed. Below is a list of activities and dog sports that are well-suited for the Icelandic Sheepdog:

• Agility: Their agility and intelligence make Icelandic Sheepdogs natural contenders in Agility courses. These courses challenge them to navigate through a series of obstacles, showcasing their speed, agility, and training.
• Obedience: This breed’s eagerness to please and high intelligence makes them excellent candidates for Obedience training, where they can learn various commands and tricks.
• Herding Trials: Given their history as herding dogs, Icelandic Sheepdogs have an innate herding instinct that can be honed through Herding Trials. These events provide an outlet for their herding drive and also strengthen their training and responsiveness.
• Flyball: This relay race involves teams of dogs jumping over hurdles to reach a spring-loaded box, triggering the release of a tennis ball for them to catch and bring back to their handler.
• Conformation Shows: Icelandic Sheepdogs, with their distinct appearance and charming demeanor, can excel in Conformation Shows. These events evaluate a dog’s conformity to its breed standard, and participating can be a rewarding experience for both the dog and the handler.
• Tracking: This activity taps into their natural scent abilities, challenging them to follow a trail and locate specific items or people. It is an excellent way to engage their mind and satisfy their tracking instincts.
• Search and Rescue: With proper training, Icelandic Sheepdogs can be involved in Search and Rescue operations, utilizing their intelligence and tracking abilities to help locate missing persons.
• Therapy Work: Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them suitable for therapy work. Visiting hospitals, schools, and nursing homes provide them with social interaction while bringing joy to others.
• Hiking and Outdoor Adventures: Their energetic nature and love for the outdoors make Icelandic Sheepdogs great companions for hiking and other outdoor adventures. Ensuring they have a chance to explore and expend their energy keeps them happy and healthy.

By participating in these activities and dog sports, Icelandic Sheepdog handlers can provide their companions with the physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction they need to thrive. Additionally, it strengthens the bond between dog and handler, making for a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for both.

Group Classification & Standards

The Icelandic Sheepdog is recognized by the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:

The ideal Icelandic Sheepdog is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:

Icelandic Sheepdog Clubs

Icelandic Sheepdog clubs play a vital role in supporting and promoting the breed, providing resources for breeders, owners, and enthusiasts. These clubs often facilitate opportunities for socialization, training, and participation in breed-specific events.

In the United States, the Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America (ISAA) serves as a central hub for individuals interested in the breed. The ISAA works diligently to protect and advance the interests of the breed through education, responsible breeding practices, and participation in dog shows and other canine events.

Canada also has a dedicated club. Founded in 2001, the Canadian Icelandic Sheepdog Club fosters a community of Icelandic Sheepdog owners and breeders and promotes responsible ownership and breeding practices.

These clubs, along with others worldwide, are instrumental in preserving the breed’s heritage and ensuring its future. They offer a wealth of knowledge and support for anyone looking to learn more about the breed, consider bringing an Icelandic Sheepdog into their home, or participate in breed-specific activities.

Icelandic Sheepdog Rescue Groups

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a relatively rare breed, and as such, there are limited breed-specific rescue groups dedicated solely to their welfare. However, this does not diminish the importance of adoption and rescue when considering bringing an Icelandic Sheepdog into your home.

In the United States, the Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America (ISAA) may have resources or contacts for rescue and rehoming Icelandic Sheepdogs in need. Interested individuals can reach out to the association to inquire about available dogs or to express their willingness to provide a forever home to an Icelandic Sheepdog.

Icelandic Sheepdog Facts

• Nordic Origins: The breed’s roots trace back to the Nordic countries. Brought to Iceland by the Vikings, this breed is deeply embedded in Icelandic history and culture.
• Versatile Workers: Originally bred to herd sheep, cattle, and horses on the island nation’s rugged terrain, these dogs showcase impressive agility, endurance, and adaptability.
• Vocal Communicators: Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for their vocal nature. They often communicate using unique barks and howls, which were essential historically for their herding tasks.
• Two Coat Varieties: This breed comes in two coat varieties: long-haired and short-haired. Both types have the dense, water-resistant undercoat essential for the Icelandic climate.
• Rare Breed Status: Due to several unique challenges, including the introduction of canine diseases and population control measures, the Icelandic Sheepdog faced the brink of extinction in the 20th century. Thanks to the concerted efforts of breed enthusiasts, their numbers have steadily increased but they remain a relatively rare breed globally.
• Popularity Spike: After the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Icelandic Sheepdog in 2010, there was a notable rise in its popularity in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Icelandic Sheepdog hypoallergenic?

Icelandic Sheepdogs are not considered hypoallergenic. They have a dense double coat that sheds, particularly during the change of seasons, which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. To ensure they can tolerate the dander, it is crucial for potential owners with allergies to spend time around the breed before making a commitment.

Do Icelandic Sheepdogs bark a lot?

Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for their vocal nature. They were bred to work on farms and in rugged terrain where communication was key, This resulted in a breed that tends to bark to express itself and alert its family, or simply from the joy of playing. Proper training and socialization from a young age can help to manage excessive barking.

Does the Icelandic Sheepdog shed?

Yes, Icelandic Sheepdogs shed. They possess a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to manage the shedding and to maintain the overall health of the coat. Seasonal shedding is particularly noticeable, however, and during these times additional grooming may be necessary to keep the coat in top condition.

Are Icelandic Sheepdogs easy to train?

Icelandic Sheepdogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent training methods. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for harnessing their intelligence and to ensure they develop into well-behaved adults.

Are Icelandic Sheepdogs good with cats?

With proper introductions and socialization, Icelandic Sheepdogs can get along well with cats. Their herding instinct may kick in, it should be noted, leading these dogs to try and herd the cats. However, with training, this behavior can be managed. It is important to supervise initial interactions to make sure a positive relationship has been established.

Can Icelandic Sheepdogs live in apartments?

While Icelandic Sheepdogs are active and enjoy space to roam and play, they can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are met. They do require regular activity, mental stimulation, and engagement with their family members. Apartment dwellers should be prepared to provide ample outdoor activities to keep the dog happy and healthy.

Do Icelandic Sheepdogs have sensitive stomachs?

Icelandic Sheepdogs are generally robust and do not have a reputation for having particularly sensitive stomachs. However, like all dogs, individuals may have specific dietary needs or sensitivities. Providing a balanced diet and monitoring for any signs of digestive upset is important for a dog’s overall health.

How long do Icelandic Sheepdogs live?

Icelandic Sheepdogs have a lifespan of around 12 to 14 years, although some individuals can live longer with proper care. Their longevity is influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care. Providing a healthy and loving environment is likely to contribute to a longer and healthier life.