ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISIcelandic sheepdog
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog icelandic sheepdog!
Here, you will find all the useful information about icelandic sheepdog. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
Imported to Scandinavia by the Vikings in the 9th century, the Icelandic Sheepdog is an ancient breed with profoundly Nordic origins. Its evolution was shaped by the extremely hardy climatic conditions and lifestyle of Icelandic shepherds, which enabled it to develop extraordinary resistance to the cold. As a result, it has become very popular for guarding and guiding herds on the northern island.
Although little known outside Iceland, the Icelandic Sheepdog is gradually beginning to win over people in Europe and the United States thanks to its great adaptability, making it an excellent family dog. The FCI recognised the breed definitively on 17 July 1972, and the latest update of the official standard in force was published on 15 June 2018.
Resembling a large Nordic Spitz, Icelandic Shepherd Dogs are lively and attentive to their environment. They have a compact body that is proportionately longer than it is tall. Although it is considered a medium-sized dog, it is more on the low side. Their almond-shaped eyes are small, and their colour varies depending on the coat, ranging from dark black to lighter. Pure white is not permitted according to official standards.
The tail is set high, thick and curled over the top of the back with panache. Icelandic Sheepdogs come in two coat varieties: a semi-long-haired variety with a soft, thick undercoat, and a longer-haired variety with a dense, soft undercoat.
They have a pleasant, jovial character. Always ready to play or go for a walk, these active dogs make excellent companions. Very demonstrative towards their owners, Icelandic Shepherds need to share time with them to flourish. They adapt well to everyday life, although they don't really like to be left alone.
Sociable, they are neither timid nor aggressive, and cohabiting with other animals or congeners generally poses no problems. In conclusion, Icelandic Shepherd Dogs are a reflection of their homeland: natural, cheerful and endearing.
As adults, Icelandic Shepherd Dogs stand between 42 and 48 cm (16.5" to 18") tall at the withers for males and between 38 and 44 cm (14" to 17") for females. Weight varies from 10 to 15 kg (22 to 33 lb). With their elegant appearance and charming temperament, Icelandic Sheepdogs are ideal companions for lovers of Nordic dogs.
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Origins
The Icelandic Sheepdog, also known as the Icelandic Sheepdog, is a very ancient breed of dog, directly related to the dogs brought to Iceland by the first Viking settlers in the 9th century. These ancestors common to Scandinavian spitz dogs were isolated in Iceland, which allowed for a remarkable purity of the breed to be preserved to this day. Initially used to guard herds against predators and to gather sheep in the vast Icelandic terrain, they are deeply rooted in Iceland's history and culture.
History
Over the centuries, the Icelandic Sheepdog has evolved to adapt to the harsh conditions and rugged terrain of Iceland, becoming a robust and enduring dog. Threatened with extinction in the early 20th century due to introduced diseases and changes in breeding practices, conservation efforts have been in place since the 1960s. Today, although still considered a rare breed, the Icelandic Sheepdog is enjoying increasing popularity both in Iceland and abroad.
Standard
According to the standard of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the Icelandic Sheepdog is a medium-sized, well-proportioned dog with a double coat resistant to harsh weather conditions and various colors including black, brown, and white. The ears are triangular and erect, adding to their lively and alert expression. Their tail is curved and carried high, expressing their playful nature.
Physical characteristics
This dog has a body slightly longer than high, with a strong bone structure and well-developed musculature. Its coat can be either short or long, but always double for maximum protection against cold and humidity. Distinctive features also include their expressive and friendly eyes that reflect their gentle temperament well.
Character
The Icelandic Sheepdog is known for its joyful, friendly, and very sociable temperament. It is an extremely loyal and affectionate dog towards its family. With great intelligence and a strong desire to please, it is both an ideal family companion and a competent worker.
Life expectancy
Icelandic shepherds have an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Their longevity is supported by an active life and quality nutrition, as well as a robust constitution inherited from their Viking ancestors.
Exercise and activity needs
This breed requires a lot of daily exercise due to its energy and history as a working dog. Long walks, active playtime, and agility training are essential for their physical and mental well-being.
Recommended diet
A high-protein, moderate-fat diet designed for active dogs is ideal for the Icelandic Sheepdog. It is important to monitor their calorie intake to prevent overweight, especially if activity levels decrease with age.
Training and obedience
The Icelandic Sheepdog is receptive to training thanks to its intelligence and its desire to collaborate with its master. Positive and consistent training from a young age is recommended to develop good manners and social skills.
Behavior with children
Naturally gentle and patient, the Icelandic Sheepdog is excellent with children. Its protective and playful nature makes it an excellent family companion, although supervision is always advised with very young children.
Compatibility with Other Animals
Thanks to its past as a herding dog, the Icelandic Sheepdog can peacefully coexist with other pets, especially cats and other dogs, especially if they are raised together.
Grooming needs
Grooming Icelandic Shepherd is relatively simple but requires regular brushing to manage hair loss, especially during shedding seasons. An occasional bath is sufficient unless they are particularly dirty.
Health
Although robust, the breed can be prone to genetic conditions typical of purebred dogs, such as hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary exams are recommended to maintain good health.
Average price
The cost of an Icelandic Sheepdog puppy generally ranges between 1,200 and 2,000 euros, depending on the breeder and lineage. In the United States, the price can range from 1,500 to 2,500 dollars.
Expenses
The annual expenses for raising an Icelandic Sheepdog, including food, veterinary care, grooming, and other necessities, are estimated between 1,000 and 1,500 euros (1,100 to 1,650 dollars). These costs can vary depending on the dog's healthcare and activity level.
Name ideas
For an Icelandic Shepherd, choosing a name can reflect his heritage or traits. For example, "Frosti", meaning frost in Icelandic, evokes his ability to tolerate the cold, while "Loki", the mischievous Nordic god, can reflect a mischievous character. "Bjorn", meaning bear, could describe his robustness, "Saga" for Iceland's rich stories, "Vinda" meaning wind for his speed, "Kári" which is the name of the wind giant in Norse mythology, "Snjó" for snow, "Eldur" meaning fire for his energy, "Hekla" after the famous volcano for a fiery temperament, and "Nótt" for night, reflecting a dark fur color.
Legislation and regulation
There are no specific restrictions regarding the Icelandic Sheepdog in most countries, although owners are encouraged to check local regulations regarding dog ownership.
Official recognition
The Icelandic Sheepdog is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), ensuring an international standard. The official organization in its country of origin is the Icelandic Sheepdog Association of Iceland, which promotes the breed and maintains its standard.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees are available for the Icelandic Shepherd from official breed associations. These documents are essential to confirm the purity of the lineage and adhere to breed standards.
Destination and usage
The Icelandic Shepherd is traditionally used for herding and as a companion dog. Its adaptable and energetic nature makes it suitable for various roles, including dog sports competitions and family activities.
Prohibitions
There are no specific restrictions affecting the Icelandic Sheepdog, although local regulations may vary. It is always advisable to check the laws regarding dog ownership in different countries or regions.
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