Origin and History

The Icelandic Sheepdog, known as Íslenskur fjárhundur in Icelandic, is a breed with a rich historical background. It originates from dogs brought to Iceland by Viking settlers in the ninth century. This breed is closely related to the Buhund of Norway and the Vallhund and Norrbottenpets of Sweden, sharing the same ancestral stock. The dog became well-known in European countries such as England and France in the Middle Ages, with early descriptions dating back to 1492. The breed faced significant challenges in the late nineteenth century due to the plague and canine distemper, which destroyed over 75% of the population. The Icelandic Sheepdog was again on the brink of extinction in the late twentieth century.

In 1969, the Hundarræktarfélag Íslands, the Icelandic Kennel Club, was formed to preserve the breed. The first dog show featuring the Icelandic Sheepdog took place in 1973. The breed was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1972 and by the American Kennel Club in 2010. As of 2022, approximately 5,000 Icelandic Sheepdogs were registered worldwide.

The breed's traditional uses include herding sheep and horses, reflecting its strong working heritage. Its adaptability to the rough terrain of rural Iceland showcases its resilience and agility. The Icelandic Sheepdog has been a part of the cultural heritage of Iceland since 1994, when the national parliament determined it should be protected as a national breed.

Physical Description

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a medium-sized spitz-type herding dog, weighing between 14-16 kg for males and 11-14 kg for females. Males stand at a height of 46-51 cm, while females are slightly shorter at 42-47 cm. The breed is known for its thick, weatherproof double coat, which can be short or long-haired. The coat colors range from light, tan, or fawn to black, chocolate-brown, or grey, often with extensive white and light markings.

The breed's coat is not hypoallergenic, meaning it may not be suitable for individuals with allergies. Despite this, the Icelandic Sheepdog is muscular and hardy, capable of moving easily over the rough terrain of rural Iceland. Its curved, bushy tail is characteristic of the breed, and its prick ears add to its distinct appearance.

Dogs of this breed are expected to live for 12-14 years, with the average weight and height providing a good indication of their size.

Temperament and Personality

The Icelandic Sheepdog is known for its cheerful and inquisitive nature, making it a friendly and playful companion. This breed is also alert, energetic, intelligent, and confident, traits that make it well-suited for various activities and environments. The breed's temperament is often described as friendly, outgoing, and eager to please, which contributes to its popularity as a family pet.

With a life span of 12-14 years, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a long-term companion for those looking for a loyal and active dog.

Breeding and Registry

The Icelandic Sheepdog is bred for its working ability as a herding dog. This breed's intelligence and trainability make it highly capable of learning and performing tasks. The breed's registry has seen significant growth over the years, with registrations in the Nordic countries totaling 137 in Iceland, 100 in Denmark, 44 in Finland, 35 in Norway, and 76 in Sweden as of 2015.

The Icelandic Sheepdog International Cooperation, formed in 1996, works with ten European member kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club, to promote and preserve the breed. The breed's acceptance by these organizations underscores its recognition as a unique and important part of the canine world. The registry's efforts ensure the breed's genetic diversity and health are maintained.

Owners of Icelandic Sheepdogs can take pride in the breed's cultural significance and its role in Iceland's heritage. The registry not only preserves the breed's history but also ensures that future generations of Icelandic Sheepdogs will continue to excel in their roles as herding dogs and beloved companions.

Health Considerations

Like all breeds, the Icelandic Sheepdog is prone to certain health conditions. Owners should be aware of potential issues such as hip dysplasia, which can affect mobility; epilepsy, a seizure disorder; and cataracts, a clouding of the eye lens.

Choosing an Icelandic Sheepdog

Its herding background means it is suited for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.

Given the breed's historical significance and cultural heritage, owning an Icelandic Sheepdog can be a unique and rewarding experience. The breed's connection to Iceland's past and its role in preserving the country's cultural identity make it a special choice for pet owners.

Cost is also an important consideration. While the exact cost of purchasing an Icelandic Sheepdog can vary, it is a breed that may be more expensive due to its rarity and unique characteristics. Additionally, ongoing costs such as food, veterinary care, and grooming should be taken into account.