Icelandic Sheepdog
The Good
- Excellent family companion with gentle, friendly nature
- Highly intelligent and eager to please
- Good with children and other pets when properly socialised
- Hardy breed with relatively few health issues
- Moderate exercise requirements
The Real
- Heavy shedding, especially during seasonal coat changes
- Can be quite vocal - barking is part of their herding heritage
- Requires consistent grooming to prevent matting
- May chase cars and small animals due to herding instincts
- Needs mental stimulation to prevent boredom
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a delightful spitz-type breed that brings centuries of Nordic heritage into modern Australian homes. Standing at a compact 42-46 cm and weighing 11-14 kg, these dogs pack a huge personality into their medium-sized frame. Their fox-like face, curled tail, and dense double coat make them instantly recognisable and utterly charming.
What truly sets them apart is their temperament. They are genuinely friendly souls who treat strangers like old friends and want to be involved in every family activity. This isn't a breed that does aloof or standoffish. Their herding background makes them highly intelligent and quick to learn, so they thrive on positive training and are always eager to please.
In Australia, their adaptable nature shines, but their coat needs consideration. While they’ll love Canberra's crisp winters, their thick fur means they need air-conditioning and shaded rest during summers in Perth or Brisbane where temperatures regularly top 30°C. They're just as happy in a Sydney apartment (with enough exercise) as on a sprawling property, as long as they’re with their people.
History
The Icelandic Sheepdog's story begins about 1,100 years ago when Norse settlers sailed across the Norwegian Sea to establish Iceland. These seafaring pioneers didn't just bring their belongings - they brought their most trusted companions: their dogs. These hardy canines were essential for herding and guarding the livestock that would help the settlers survive in their new homeland.
Over the centuries, these dogs developed into the breed we know today, perfectly adapted to Iceland's harsh conditions and the demands of herding sheep, cattle, and even horses across rugged terrain. They're the only dog breed native to Iceland, making them a living piece of Scandinavian history.
The breed nearly faced extinction in the mid-20th century, but dedicated enthusiasts worked tirelessly to preserve these remarkable dogs. Their efforts paid off, and today the Icelandic Sheepdog is recognised worldwide, including by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2010.
What's fascinating is how little the breed has changed from its Viking ancestors. The same traits that made them invaluable to Norse settlers - their intelligence, loyalty, hardiness, and vocal communication skills - are exactly what makes them such wonderful family companions today. They've retained their working dog mentality, which means they're happiest when they have a job to do, whether that's herding livestock on a rural property or simply being the family's devoted guardian and companion.
This rich heritage explains many of their characteristics: their thick coat that handles extreme weather, their natural herding instincts, and their tendency to "talk" to their families - a trait that served them well when communicating across vast Icelandic landscapes.
Traits & Characteristics
Icelandic Sheepdog characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Icelandic Sheepdogs are generally robust, healthy dogs with a typical lifespan of 12-14 years. Their hardy Nordic heritage has given them good genetic diversity, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions that potential owners should be aware of.
The most common concerns include elbow and hip dysplasia - inherited conditions where the joints don't form properly, potentially leading to arthritis and mobility issues. Responsible breeders will have their dogs tested for these conditions before breeding. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place, can also occur and may require surgical correction in severe cases.
Eye conditions are another consideration. Cataracts can develop, potentially affecting vision, while retinal dysplasia - a condition where the retina doesn't develop properly - can occur in puppies. The good news is that reputable breeders screen for these conditions to reduce their occurrence.
For Australian owners, it's worth noting that their thick double coat and love of outdoor activities mean tick prevention is crucial, especially in areas like the NSW coast or Queensland where paralysis ticks are common. Regular vet checks, including dental care and ear cleaning, will help catch any issues early.
The breed's moderate size and good overall health make them relatively affordable to maintain from a veterinary perspective. Pet insurance is always worth considering, particularly for coverage of hereditary conditions. Most Icelandic Sheepdogs live long, healthy lives with proper care, regular exercise, and quality nutrition. Their robust constitution means they adapt well to Australia's varied climate, though owners should monitor them during extreme heat and provide adequate shelter and water.
Feeding an Icelandic Sheepdog is straightforward - they need a high-quality diet appropriate for a medium-sized, moderately active breed. Adult dogs do well on two meals per day, while puppies should eat three times daily to maintain stable blood sugar levels and support their rapid growth.
Choose a premium dog food that meets nutritional standards, focusing on options designed for medium breeds. The thick double coat and active nature of these dogs means they need adequate protein and healthy fats to maintain their energy levels and coat condition. During Australia's hot summer months, you might notice they eat less - this is normal, but ensure they're staying hydrated.
Portion control is important as Icelandic Sheepdogs can be prone to weight gain if overfed, especially if they're not getting enough exercise. Use the feeding guidelines on your chosen food as a starting point, but adjust based on your dog's individual needs, activity level, and body condition. Your vet can help you determine if your dog is at an ideal weight.
Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Given their intelligence and eagerness to please, they respond well to training treats, but choose healthy options and account for these in their daily food allowance.
Some Icelandic Sheepdogs with joint issues may benefit from supplements containing glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids, but always consult your vet before adding supplements. Fresh water should always be available, particularly during Australia's warmer months.
Life stage feeding is important - puppies need puppy-formulated food, adults need maintenance diets, and seniors benefit from age-appropriate formulations that support their changing nutritional needs as they age.
The Icelandic Sheepdog's beautiful double coat is both their crowning glory and their biggest grooming challenge. That thick, weather-resistant fur that kept their ancestors warm in Iceland's harsh climate requires regular attention to keep it looking its best and prevent matting.
Plan on brushing your Icelandic Sheepdog at least once a week year-round, but during their twice-yearly shedding seasons (typically spring and autumn), you'll need to brush daily. Trust me on this one - invest in a good vacuum cleaner and lint rollers, because these dogs shed considerably. The good news is that regular brushing significantly reduces the amount of fur floating around your home.
Use a slicker brush or metal comb to work through any tangles, paying special attention to areas prone to matting like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. Their dense undercoat can hide mats, so be thorough. If you stay on top of regular brushing, you shouldn't need professional grooming except for the occasional bath.
Bathing can be done monthly or as needed - their coat naturally repels dirt, so they often stay cleaner than you'd expect. When you do bathe them, use a dog-specific shampoo and ensure you rinse thoroughly to prevent skin irritation.
Don't forget the basics: trim nails regularly (overgrown nails can be painful), brush teeth several times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears monthly for wax buildup or signs of infection. Their pointed ears are less prone to infections than floppy-eared breeds, but regular cleaning is still important.
During Australia's tick season, thorough brushing sessions are perfect opportunities to check for these dangerous parasites, especially if your dog loves exploring bushland or coastal areas.
Icelandic Sheepdogs are a trainer's dream - intelligent, eager to please, and naturally responsive to their humans. Their herding background means they're bred to work closely with people, making them highly trainable when you use positive reinforcement methods. Harsh corrections don't work with these sensitive souls; they respond much better to praise, treats, and play.
Start socialisation and basic training early, ideally from 8 weeks old. Puppy classes are excellent for both training and socialisation, helping your Icelandic Sheepdog grow into a confident, well-mannered adult. Their natural friendliness means they typically do well with other dogs and children when properly introduced.
Exercise needs are moderate but consistent. A good daily walk, some playtime, and mental stimulation will keep most Icelandic Sheepdogs content. They love hiking, making them perfect companions for weekend adventures in places like the Blue Mountains or Grampians. Beach walks are also popular, though their herding instincts might have them trying to "collect" other dogs or even children!
Speaking of herding instincts, expect some chasing behaviour - cars, bikes, and small animals might trigger their working drive. This makes leash training absolutely essential, and a securely fenced yard is highly recommended. They're also naturally vocal, using barking as communication, so training a "quiet" command early will help maintain neighbourhood harmony.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. These clever dogs excel at dog sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Even simple puzzle toys or training sessions can provide the mental workout they crave. A bored Icelandic Sheepdog might become destructive or develop excessive barking habits.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Icelandic Sheepdog owner is someone who appreciates an intelligent, devoted companion and doesn't mind a bit of dog hair on their clothes. These dogs thrive with active individuals or families who can provide consistent exercise, training, and plenty of companionship.
If you're the type who enjoys weekend hikes, beach walks, or even just long strolls through your neighbourhood, an Icelandic Sheepdog will be your enthusiastic partner. They're particularly well-suited to families with children, as their gentle, patient nature and moderate size make them excellent playmates. However, they do best with kids old enough to respect a dog's boundaries.
These dogs aren't ideal for people who work long hours, as they genuinely need to be part of their family's daily life and can develop separation anxiety. Similarly, if you're looking for a quiet, low-maintenance pet, this might not be your breed—they're vocal and their grooming needs are significant. Given their rarity in Australia, be prepared for a potential waitlist when contacting registered breeders.
First-time dog owners can succeed with Icelandic Sheepdogs, provided they're committed to training and socialisation. Their eagerness to please makes them forgiving of mistakes, but consistency is key. Whether you live in a Brisbane apartment with nearby parks or a rural property in Tasmania, an Icelandic Sheepdog can adapt, but they need their people around. They're the type of dog that wants to be wherever you are—a devoted shadow who'll greet you like a returning hero every day.
Interesting facts about the Icelandic Sheepdog
Iceland's Only Native Dog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland's only native dog breed and has been a cherished part of the nation's culture for over 1,000 years.
Saved from Extinction
The breed faced near extinction in the mid-20th century but was successfully revived through dedicated breeding programs in Iceland and other countries.
A Viking's Best Friend
These dogs were so valued by the original Viking settlers that they feature in ancient Icelandic sagas and historical literature.
A Recent AKC Star
Despite their ancient origins, the breed was only officially recognised by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2010, where it competes in the Herding Group.
FAQ
In Australia, expect to pay between $2,500 and $4,000 AUD for a well-bred Icelandic Sheepdog puppy from a reputable ANKC registered breeder. The price reflects the breed's rarity in the country and the comprehensive health screening responsible breeders undertake.
Absolutely! They're gentle, patient with children, and naturally social. When properly socialised, they get along well with kids and other pets, making them excellent family companions.
Yes, they're naturally vocal dogs due to their herding heritage. With consistent training, you can teach them when barking is appropriate, but you'll never have a completely quiet dog.
They can adapt to apartment living if they receive adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation. However, their vocal nature means you'll need to consider your neighbours and work on bark training.
A moderate amount - about 30-60 minutes of walking plus some playtime or mental stimulation. They're not marathon runners but do need consistent daily activity to stay happy and healthy.
Yes, their eagerness to please and intelligence make them good choices for committed first-time owners willing to invest time in training and socialisation.
Their thick double coat means they need extra care during hot weather. Provide plenty of shade, water, and air conditioning during summer, and exercise them during cooler morning or evening hours.