A little look at life together.
Getting to know the Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a Nordic herding breed with a dense double coat, curled tail, and sociable outlook. Consider barking and daily shared activity alongside the regular work of coat care.
An everyday routine
Make space for substantial daily activity and short learning sessions. A busy weekend cannot replace a dependable weekday routine.
Coat care to plan for
Set aside time each week for coat care, checking through the hair rather than only brushing the surface. Shedding periods or longer furnishings may need extra attention.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
Icelandic Sheepdog questions
Do Icelandic Sheepdogs bark a lot?
Yes, this is a vocal breed. The habit comes from herding work, where barking moved sheep and horses and warned birds of prey away from lambs. These are bright dogs who can be taught to be quiet, though some individuals are noisier than others.
Do Icelandic Sheepdogs shed?
They do. The thick double coat sheds a fair amount all year and more heavily in two shedding seasons. Brush weekly, and daily while the coat is coming out.
How big does a full-grown Icelandic Sheepdog get?
Males stand about 18 inches at the shoulder and weigh about 30 pounds, and females about 16.5 inches and 25 pounds. This is a herder of small-to-medium size, so expect a dog at the compact end of medium.
How long do Icelandic Sheepdogs live?
Life expectancy is 12 to 14 years, and the breed is generally very healthy. Conditions to know about include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and some eye conditions such as cataracts, which makes them useful things to ask a breeder about. For anything about your own dog, talk to your vet.
Are Icelandic Sheepdogs good with children and families?
They have a strong reputation for it, and are very good with young children and affectionate with family. This is a happy dog that attaches closely to its people and wants to follow them everywhere. That closeness has a flip side, since they are unhappy when regularly left alone for long stretches.
Are Icelandic Sheepdogs easy to train?
Generally yes. The breed is highly trainable, lively, intelligent and eager to please. These dogs do poorly with harsh handling, so consistent, gentle training suits them best.
Do Icelandic Sheepdogs have double dewclaws?
Many do. Dewclaws on the hind legs are a special characteristic of the breed, with double dewclaws preferred and single ones also acceptable. If you are new to the breed, ask your groomer or vet to show you how to keep those extra nails trimmed.
What were Icelandic Sheepdogs bred for, and can they live in a city?
They are farm dogs. Norse settlers brought spitz-type dogs to Iceland about 1,100 years ago to herd sheep and round up ponies, and the Icelandic Sheepdog is the country's only native breed. The dog adjusts to family life in the city or the country, but it is not a good match for inactive people. Moderate exercise every day suits it.
