Icelandic Sheepdog Breed Information:
Thought to be companions to the ancient Vikings, the Icelandic Sheepdog breed was used to protect flocks, especially lambs, from birds of prey. They still retain the habit of watching the sky and barking at birds as well as everything else they see or hear. This breed is also known as the Icelandic Spitz or Icelandic Dog.
Icelandic Sheep dog Group: Herding Dogs.
Icelandic Sheepdog Height: 16 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder.
Icelandic Sheepdog Weight: 20 to 30 pounds.
Icelandic Sheepdog Life Span: 14 to 15 years.
More About This Dog Breed:
Icelandic Sheepdogs are very affectionate with their humans, and as you may have guessed, they do well in colder climates. However, novice pet parents should beware. 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.
Icelandic Sheepdog History:
The Icelandic sheepdog is considered Iceland's only native dog breed. This rare canine is also one of the world's oldest dog breeds. It's believed that the Vikings brought their spitz-type dogs to Iceland more than 1,000 years ago, which became the predecessors for the Icelandic sheepdog.
Icelandic Sheepdog Size:
The Icelandic Sheepdog is just shy of being a medium-sized dog. Males stand about 18 inches at the shoulder, females stand 16.5 inches. Weight is in proportion to height, ranging from about 20 to 30 pounds.
Icelandic Sheepdog Personality:
Affectionate, confident, and playful, the Icelandic Sheepdog gets along well with people and other dogs. Males tend to be more laid-back and cuddlier than females. Trained with consistency and patience, Icelandics learn quickly and willingly.
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Icelandic Sheepdog Health:
The Icelandic Sheepdog generally has little health issues with an average life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. Main health concerns associated with the Icelandic Sheepdog include hip dysplasia and an eye disorder called distichiasis.
Icelandic Sheepdog Care:
Icelandic sheepdogs need plenty of exercise each day, along with mental stimulation. Their grooming needs are relatively straightforward. They typically take well to training, which should begin ideally when they are puppies.
Icelandic Sheepdog Feeding:
Icelandic Sheepdogs are medium-sized dogs that are fairly energetic, so you can expect to feed them around 2.5 to 3 cups of dry dog food a day. They do have some common joint issues that can be exacerbated by obesity and weight gain, so it's important not to overfeed them.
Icelandic Sheepdog Coat Color And Grooming:
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. The tail is very bushy. Weekly brushing will keep the coat in good shape.
Icelandic Sheepdog with Children And Other Pets:
Icelandic sheepdogs are great with children, other dogs and smaller pets. The prey drive is not strong in this breed, so smaller pets should be welcomed by them. Always supervise your dog with smaller animals because the hunting instincts can vary depending on the individual dog. Calm but firm training is recommended.