Herding Group
Icelandic Sheepdog
Champion Pedigree
Cheerful
Fox-Like
Herder
Brought to Iceland by Viking settlers over a thousand years ago, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a spitz-type herding breed with a fox-like face and a cheerful, curled tail. Iceland’s only native breed, it remains a capable farm herder and watchful companion.
Lifespan
12–14 years.
Did You Know?
The Icelandic Sheepdog is believed to have arrived with the earliest Norse settlers over 1,100 years ago, making it one of the oldest breeds still in its original form.
Breed Traits
Size
Males 18 in. tall, 30 lbs; females 16.5 in. tall, 25 lbs.
Energy Level
Moderate to high — enjoys regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Coat & Grooming
Thick double coat, short or long variety; moderate to heavy shedder.
Good With Families
Cheerful and friendly, generally excellent with children and other pets.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Íslenskur Fjárhundur
Origin
Iceland, brought by Norse settlers over a millennium ago.
Typical Litter Size
4 to 6 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK)
Disposition
Cheerful, alert, and friendly; a natural watchdog instinct with a tendency to bark to alert its family.
Coat Colors
Tan, chocolate brown, gray, and black, often with white markings.
Working Roles
Historically a livestock herding and farm watchdog in Iceland; today primarily a companion breed.
Health & Wellness
Generally very healthy, though hip dysplasia and an inherited eye condition are worth screening for.
Notable Icelandic Sheepdogs
Iceland’s Only Native Breed
The sole dog breed originating in Iceland, largely unchanged since Viking settlement.
Near-Extinction History
Twice nearly wiped out by disease epidemics in Iceland before recovering through careful breeding programs.
Registry Newcomer
A relatively recent addition to major kennel club registries outside Scandinavia.
Related Reading
Icelandic Sheepdog Gifts
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