Breed Info
Thanks to the isolation of Iceland, today’s Icelandic Sheepdogs — also called the Icelandic Spitz or Icelandic Dog — probably look a lot like their ancestors.
For centuries the Icelandic Sheepdog was used to protect flocks, especially lambs, from birds of prey, and to this day he retains the habit of watching the sky and barking at birds. He also barks to alert his family to anything and everything that he sees or hears. He’s too friendly to be much of a guard dog, but you’ll never be surprised by visitors.
Affectionate, confident, and playful, the Icelandic Sheepdog gets along well with people and other dogs. Males tend to be more laidback and cuddlier than females. Trained with consistency and patience, Icelandics learn quickly and willingly.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is an abnormal formation of the hip socket that can cause pain and lameness. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. If you’re buying a puppy, ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and are free of problems.
- Allergies: Quite common is dogs, there are three main types of allergies: food allergies, which are treated by eliminating certain foods from the dog’s diet; contact allergies, which are caused by a reaction to a topical substance such as bedding, flea powders, dog shampoos, and other chemicals; and inhalant allergies, which are caused by airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and mildew. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes.
These dogs have high energy and won’t take as well to apartment life. If you can provide plenty of exercise and open space, along with experienced and consistent training, then this might be the dog for you!
The thick double coat of the Icelandic Sheepdog is very waterproof and can be one of two lengths: medium or longer, always with a thick, soft undercoat. It can be straight or slightly wavy, and it comes in several colors — shades of tan, ranging from cream to reddish brown; chocolate brown, gray; and black — all with white markings and sometimes with a black mask.
Affectionate, confident, and playful, the Icelandic Sheepdog gets along well with children and other dogs. Males tend to be more laidback and cuddlier than females.
