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Dog Breed

Icelandic Sheepdog

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Icelandic Sheepdog

Origin: Iceland

Breed Group: Herding

Physical Characteristics

Size: Small to Medium

Height: Male: 18 inches (46 cm), Female: 16.5 inches (42 cm)

Weight: Male: 25–30 lbs (11–14 kg), Female: 20–25 lbs (9–11 kg)

Coat Type: Thick, double coat; comes in long and short varieties

Coat Colors: Tan, reddish-brown, cream, gray, black with white and markings; often with a facial mask

Grooming Needs: Moderate (weekly brushing; more during shedding season)

Shedding: Moderate to High (seasonal)

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Friendly, cheerful, alert, energetic, social

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–15 years

Common Health Issues: Patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, eye conditions (like cataracts)

Care

Nutrition Needs: High-quality diet for active small to medium dogs; watch weight with treats

Exercise Needs: High – needs daily physical and mental activity like walking, herding games, or agility

Space Requirements: Adaptable; does well in homes with yards or in apartments with sufficient exercise

Noise Sensitivity: High (alert and vocal)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Intelligent and eager to please; responds well to consistent, positive training

Good with Children: Yes, friendly and sociable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, friendly and sociable

Good with Other Pets: Yes, usually tolerant with proper introductions

Training: Intelligent and eager to please; responds well to consistent, positive training

Description

The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland’s only native dog breed, descended from the Viking spitz-type dogs, and bred to herd sheep, horses, and cattle in rough, mountainous terrain. Cheerful, alert, and always wagging, they are extremely people-oriented and make wonderful family pets. Their thick double coat is both beautiful and practical, but it sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes, and needs regular brushing. Icelandics are intelligent and very trainable, excelling in herding, agility, and obedience. With their active and social temperament, they need daily exercise and companionship.

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History

Origin: The Icelandic Sheepdog, or Íslenskur Fjárhundur, originated in Scandinavia and was brought to Iceland by Norwegian Viking settlers around 874 AD. These dogs were spitz-type, similar to the Norwegian Buhund and Shetland Sheepdog, and were used for herding sheep, cattle, and horses.
Development: Over time, the breed adapted to Iceland's harsh climate, developing into a hardy and resilient dog with exceptional herding instincts. Despite facing challenges such as famine and disease, the Icelandic Sheepdog remained integral to Icelandic rural life. Blood analysis has shown a genetic link to the Karelian Bear Dog, indicating that the breed's ancestors may have originated from further east.
Global Spread: The breed was first exhibited at a dog show in Copenhagen in 1897 and recognized by Denmark's kennel club in 1898. The English Kennel Club recognized it in 1905. Despite its historical export to England, the breed remained rare outside Iceland until recent years. Since 1901, a ban on importing animals to Iceland has helped preserve the breed's genetic purity.
Recognition: The Icelandic Sheepdog is recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide and is celebrated as a national symbol of Iceland. It is valued for its intelligence, loyalty, and herding ability. In 1969, the Icelandic Dog Breeder Association was formed to protect and promote the breed.
Today, the Icelandic Sheepdog is still a rare breed but has gained popularity globally. It is cherished for its friendly temperament and adaptability as both a working dog and family pet. Efforts continue to preserve its genetic integrity and promote its cultural significance in Iceland.

Ideal Owner

Active families or individuals seeking a cheerful, trainable, and loyal companion

Similar Breeds

Shetland Sheepdog, Finnish Lapphund, Norwegian Buhund, Corgi