Animalz

Icelandic Sheepdog

Icelandic Sheepdog
Veronica Druk · CC BY-SA 3.0
Weight
11–14 kg[3]
Lifespan
12–14 years[3]

Temperament

Friendly, Playful, Inquisitive

[3]

Work on the island

The FCI standard describes the breed as descended from dogs brought by Iceland’s first settlers around AD 870–930. It worked on farms to gather sheep and other livestock, adapting to the island’s terrain and way of life.

[1]

Build and working style

A sturdy Nordic herding Spitz, slightly below medium size, it has a somewhat rectangular outline, erect ears and a curled tail. Its standard describes barking as useful when driving livestock.

[1]

Coat and colours

The standard recognises short- and long-coated forms, both with a thick, weather-resistant double coat. It lists fawn and red shades, grey, chocolate brown and black, with white markings accompanying the main colour.

[1]

Sources

  1. Icelandic Sheepdog
  2. Icelandic Sheepdog
  3. Icelandic Sheepdog
  4. Icelandic Sheepdog

Related breeds and coats