Icelandic Sheepdog
Herding Group
Height at Shoulders
16-18 in
Weight
20-30 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-14 yrs
History
The Icelandic Sheepdog originated in Iceland about 1,100 years ago when Norse settlers arrived with their spitz herding dogs: the ancestors of the Icelandic Sheepdog. The dogs were bred specifically to keep the sheep from straying and to protect them from birds of prey. Icelandic Sheepdogs are known to be very watchful of the sky and bark at birds. Dogs very similar to the Icelandic Sheepdog were found in graves in Denmark and Sweden from about 8,000 BCE, suggesting it might be one of the oldest dog breeds.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Icelandic Sheepdogs share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
★★★★★
★★★★☆
★★☆☆☆
★★★★☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
★★★★★
Intelligence
★★★★☆
Affection Towards Family
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★★★☆
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★☆☆☆
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
Energy Level
★★★★☆
Sensitivity
★★★☆☆
Noise Level
★★★★☆
Prey Drive
★★★★☆
Shedding
★★★★★
Common Traits
Intelligent, quick learners who are eager to please
Will bark at everything- especially birds
Affectionate and people-oriented- need companionship and don't like to be left alone for long
Known to chase after cars so be sure to keep them leashed when near roads
Males tend to be more affectionate than females, although they're all friendly with family
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