Icelandic Sheepdog Breed Guide
Also known as: Íslenskur fjárhundur, Iceland Dog, Friaar Dog
Iceland's hardy herders, Icelandic Sheepdogs are cheerful spitz breeds whose thick coats and friendly nature suit cold climates and active lifestyles.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
9-14 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Medium
Weight
9-14 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Icelandic Sheepdogs
Brought to Iceland by Viking settlers in the 9th century, the Icelandic Sheepdog was bred to herd sheep and horses in the harsh Arctic environment. Their thick double coat and spitz-like features provided excellent protection from extreme weather conditions.
Their dense double coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and sheds heavily during seasonal changes. Icelandic Sheepdogs are friendly and alert, known for their strong herding instincts and cheerful nature.
They are devoted to their families and generally friendly with strangers and other dogs. Icelandic Sheepdogs need moderate exercise and excel at activities that engage their herding instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Icelandic Sheepdogs
Expert advice on keeping your Icelandic Sheepdog healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Maintaining optimal nutrition for an Icelandic Sheepdog requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs. These energetic herding dogs thrive on high-quality protein sources that support their muscular build and active lifestyle. A well-balanced diet should include lean meats, wholesome carbohydrates, and essential fats to fuel their daily activities.
Portion control plays a crucial role in preventing obesity, a common concern in this breed. Owners should measure meals carefully and adjust serving sizes based on activity level, age, and overall health status. While treats are valuable training tools, they should constitute no more than 10% of daily caloric intake to prevent weight gain and ensure proper nutrition through main meals.
As Icelandic Sheepdogs transition through life stages, their nutritional requirements evolve. Puppies need specially formulated food to support growth and development, while senior dogs may benefit from reduced-calorie options with joint-supporting nutrients. Regular weight monitoring and veterinary consultations help determine appropriate dietary adjustments, ensuring these intelligent herders maintain their ideal body condition throughout their lives.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Icelandic Sheepdogs from our community of pet parents
Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for their friendly and playful nature. They are extremely loving, loyal and crave human companionship. These intelligent dogs are easy to train but can be a little bit stubborn at times. They get along well with other pets and are great with children, making them a wonderful addition to families.
Dog Breeds Similar to Icelandic Sheepdog
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Icelandic Sheepdog
Swedish Vallhund
Viking dogs with short legs, Swedish Vallhunds are energetic, confident herding dogs whose compact size and bold personalities suit active households.
Shetland Sheepdog
Miniature Lassies with big hearts, Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent, gentle herding dogs whose loyalty and trainability make them excellent all-around companions.