Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 3rd February 2026
Icelandic Sheepdog
By
Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 3rd February 2026
The Icelandic sheepdog is a spitz breed, rising to excellence as efficient herding dogs, guarding livestock along the Icelandic countryside. This medium-sized canine has a rectangular body, longish head, almond-shaped eyes, erect ears, broad chest and a curled tail. Sturdy and robust, these dogs make for a useful family pet.
Icelandic Sheepdog Pictures
Quick Information
| Other Names | Iceland dog, Iceland sheepdog, Icelandic spitz, FriaarI dog, Islenkur Fjarhundur, Islandsk Farehond |
| Coat | Long or short, thick and waterproof |
| Color | Black, chocolate, cream, fawn, tan, red, sable, golden, gray, black and white, fawn and white, chocolate and white |
| Type | Purebred |
| Group | Herding, Spitz |
| Size | Medium |
| Lifespan/ Life Expectancy | 12 years |
| Height | 17 to 18 inches |
| Weight | 20 to 30 pounds |
| Litter size | 4-8 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Friendly, energetic, extrovert, alert, inquisitive |
| Good with Children | Yes |
| Barking | High |
| Shedding | Moderate to heavy |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/ Information | AKC, FCI, CKC, UKC |
| Country | Iceland |
1 Month Old Icelandic Sheep Dog Puppies Video
Other Similar Breeds
History
Known as one of the oldest dog breeds worldwide, they have a long history, migrating along with the Viking settlers during 874 to 930 AD, and settling in the region as livestock guardian dogs. Owing to their strong and versatile nature, they were capable of working with ease in the rough terrain of Ireland, gathering the sheep grazing on the hills and returning them safely to their masters. Their sense of smell was so profound that they were capable of identifying their owner’s sheep with ease.
Their numbers declined drastically in the latter part of the 19th century, the main reasons being canine distemper and plague. In the second half of the 20th century, they were almost on the verge of extinction with 50 dogs only remaining. In 1969, the HRFI (Icelandic Dog Breeder Association) was set up for preserving them.
To know the actual roots of the Iceland dogs, blood samples of 56 of them were collected in 1983. Results showed their relation to the Karelian Bear Dog, a breed of Finnish origin.
It attained recognition from the AKC in June 2010 alongside two other breeds, namely the Cane Corso and Leonberger.
Temperament
These loyal, devoted dogs enjoy the company of their family, loving to follow its owner wherever he goes. It has a versatile temperament unlike most working dogs because whenever indoors it loves lying down calmly near its master’s feet.
Being lively and extrovert, they welcome visitors delightfully by wagging their tails with enthusiasm.
Because of their sociable nature, staying alone for prolonged periods may result in destructive behavior. These playful and fearless dogs are inquisitive about everything around them. They are fascinated in looking at the sky, probably observing birds.
They share an excellent rapport with children, dogs or any other pets. They have a high tendency to bark, which heightens on spotting a bird as they were assigned the task of keeping the livestock out of reach of the winged species.
Since they have a strong herding tendency, it is better to keep them away from rodents and birds.
Care
Exercise
Since they are highly active, a daily dose of exercise is essential to keep them physically and mentally energized. A long walk, jog, coupled with plenty of playtime in a big fenced yard or garden would suffice. Owing to their high energy levels farms or houses with big yards would suit them well.
Grooming
Its thick, waterproof, double coat needs to be brushed one or two times a week using a pin brush along with a comb for removing the loose fur. Other hygiene measures include nail trimming and teeth brushing.
Health Problems
Though healthy, some of the common problems that it may be afflicted with include elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation.
Training
These intelligent and eager-to-please breeds are a trainer’s delight. With patience and positive reinforcement techniques, they would do respond well to training.
- To control your dog’s barking tendency, try to minimize the triggers that may result in such behavior. Engage your dog in a host of interesting activities to keep him deviated.
- Give your Icelandic sheepdog obedience training particularly teaching him to follow commands like “Stay”, “Stop”, “Pause”, so that when he gets into a destructive behavior your firm voice may stop him.
Feeding
Feed the Icelandic sheepdog well with proper dog food alongside a nutrient-rich diet.
Interesting Facts
- In Iceland, this breed has been portrayed on the postage stamps.
FAQ’s
I used to think my dog was a Finnish Spitz until I came to this web site for Icelandic Sheepdogs. it was like someone had taken my dog’s picture for the article. I adopted her from the local Humane Society. She had gone out on adoption 3 times and been returned. Her problems included a lot of barking, fearful of many things and showed no signs of training. She showed signs of neglect and mistreatment. My previous dogs had included 3 Rottweilers at different times. We had a meeting of our hearts. I told her we can do this; life will be better than you have ever known. She was about 1 1/2 years old. She is now 13. In good health, does well with other dogs, loves kids and once she trusted me was a dream to train. Very much into routine. I feel it gives her confidence. Sometimes I think she reads my mind.