Hailing from the cold, frigid island of Iceland, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a breed with a vibrant history. With its existence spanning a few thousand years, this canine is an ancient breed that still charms the hearts of many today. Read on to learn more about the Icelandic Sheepdog!
1. This Breed Has a Rich Nordic History
The Icelandic Sheepdog is descended from a founding group of dogs brought into Iceland by the Vikings. In fact, these canines also gave rise to a few other related breeds, such as the Norwegian Buhund and the Swedish Vallhund.
The Icelandic Sheepdog was well-known throughout the rest of Continental Europe, as these canines were exported as gifts, with this breed being popular amongst royalty. This breed has been recorded in written texts as early as 1492, and William Shakespeare even referenced this breed in Henry V in 1599. In 1788, German naturalist Johann Friedrich Gmelin even classified this dog as a species of its own, Canis islandicus (which is invalid today, as the Icelandic Sheepdog is, in fact, just a breed of domestic dog).
At some point during the late 1800s, both the bubonic plague and canine distemper ravaged the island, destroying over 75% of the Icelandic Sheepdog population. As a result, this breed almost became extinct and the importation of dogs into Iceland was then banned. With the recognition of its status as a breed being accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1972 and the founding of the Icelandic Sheepdog International Cooperation in 1996, this canine is now regarded as a national treasure in Iceland.
The breed itself was then recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2010. While significantly recovered, this breed remains rare today with only around 5,000 registered individuals existing worldwide.
2. These Are Iceland’s Only Native Dogs
The Icelandic Sheepdog is the only known dog breed that is native to Iceland, where it is highly regarded as a cultural heritage breed. Being bred to work with livestock, such as sheep and horses, this sheepdog belongs to a group of dogs known as the spitzes. While traits aren’t fully set in stone, dogs in the spitz group typically sport traits such as a fuzzy double coat, pointy ears, and a curved tail. Most of these breeds come from northern, colder climates. Popular breeds in this group include Pomeranians, Chow Chows, and Huskies.
As the Icelandic Sheepdog has remained isolated from others for more than a thousand years (and is considered rare), breeders and fanciers vow to ensure that this breed isn’t crossbred with other dog breeds. Due to this, breeding the Icelandic Sheepdog is done with lots of care and strictness to ensure that this canine remains. As a result, this canine is most common in Iceland, with individuals of this breed being more difficult to find or acquire outside of the island.
3. These Dogs Were Bred for Herding
The Icelandic Sheepdog was bred to work with livestock, mainly used for herding. These dogs are highly intelligent and learn fast, making them a versatile companion out in the pastures. The Icelandic Sheepdog is a hardy breed that can traverse through rough terrain, being useful in searching for lost sheep or other stray animals. This breed has a water-resistant double coat that keeps it protected from the elements, from cold temperatures to snowy or rainy weather.
While mostly used for herding, the Icelandic Sheepdog is also highly alert, keeping on the lookout for potential threats, such as birds of prey that can be dangerous for newborn lambs. This breed alerts its handlers by barking, and this trait can even be seen in companion dogs (which should be considered if you want to bring an Icelandic Sheepdog home). It is still used by sheep herders today, both in and out of Iceland!
4. This Sheepdog Has Double Dewclaws!
Interestingly, the Icelandic Sheepdog has extra dewclaws on its hind legs, which are listed as part of this dog’s breed standard. Scientifically, this is known as polydactyly, or having extra toes. Some believe that the extra digits allow these dogs to gain extra traction when navigating rocky ground.
The Icelandic Sheepdog isn’t the only breed that sports double dewclaws. Other breeds, such as the Great Pyrenees, Beauceron, and the Briard, are also known for having extra dewclaws. A closely related breed, the Norwegian Buhund, is also known to have extra digits as well.
Having extra digits brings an extra responsibility in terms of maintenance. Unlike the main dewclaw, the extra appendages are often just attached loosely by the skin. Some breeders amputate them from puppies at a very young age, though this is considered controversial by some. Either or, if your dog has double-digited dewclaws, care must be taken to prevent injury.
Most people don’t recommend removing these extra dew claws. While some may believe that these dewclaws can be injured easily, such incidents don’t often occur very frequently. As with other toes on your dog, the nails should be trimmed every few weeks along with the rest.
5. This Breed Is Generally Healthy
The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally a very healthy breed, with its overall issues being ailments that other dogs experience. Such issues include elbow or hip dysplasia and luxating patellas. Elbow/hip dysplasia can occur if your dog’s joints grow out of place, causing discomfort as your dog tries to walk around. Luxating patellas, which are more common among smaller breeds, occur when your dog’s kneecaps pop out of place, making them limp and causing discomfort.
Both issues can occur with any dog, and it is important to be observant of any early signs that your dog may display; in extreme cases, surgery may be required. Your dog should be examined annually by a veterinarian to ensure that any problems are detected early and halted before they progress. If your dog shows any symptoms of illness, schedule a veterinary appointment as soon as possible.
6. These Dogs Have Moderate Grooming Needs
The Icelandic Sheepdog’s grooming routine shouldn’t be very difficult, though this breed needs to be brushed weekly to remove excess fur and to prevent matting. Like some other breeds, this canine will blow its coat heavily around twice a year. During this time, extra brushing may be needed to assist in removing extra stray hairs.
The Icelandic Sheepdog isn’t a dog that needs to be bathed too often; in fact, bathing should be done only around every four to six weeks if needed. Overbathing can strip natural oils from your dog’s coat which can then cause other issues, such as skin problems.
Like other dogs, the Icelandic Sheepdog’s nails should be trimmed every few weeks (and take note of its extra dewclaws), and its ears should be kept clean to ward off infection. While your dog’s teeth should optimally be brushed daily, two to three times a week can suffice if needed. While dental chews are enjoyed, take note that these should not be used as a substitute for tooth brushing.
7. This dog enjoys exercise
Every dog should be exercised daily, and the Icelandic Sheepdog is no exception to the rule. This breed enjoys moderate exercise and would thrive in households with active families. The Icelandic Sheepdog makes a great partner on long walks and hikes. As with all other dogs, a bored dog is typically a destructive one. Typical fun games, such as fetch are also great ways to let your dog release some steam. Interestingly, this breed reportedly has a love for swimming, having a water-resistant coat and an overall athletic sense of ability.
Around half an hour to an hour of exercise a day can satisfy an Icelandic Sheepdog, but more is always appreciated in this energetic breed. The Icelandic Sheepdog can participate in a variety of sports, such as agility trials, herding, and tracking. As this breed has a great tracking ability and excels in herding, these activities are a great way to allow the Icelandic Sheepdog to perform tasks that this canine was bred for.
8. This Dog Makes a Loving Companion
The Icelandic Sheepdog is an easygoing dog with bursts of energy. It is also highly intelligent and known to be an easy dog to train. As with all breeds, the Icelandic Sheepdog thrives on positive reinforcement and patience. Socialization should begin early in puppyhood to prevent behavioral problems from arising later.
Barking is an issue that may arise in this breed. As the Icelandic Sheepdog alerted ranchers of threats by barking, this is a trait that has carried on in their descendants. A consistent training routine should be established to mitigate barking. This should also be noted for those who have neighbors who probably wouldn’t appreciate loud noises.
This dog typically gets along well with its loved ones and is very eager to please, making them a wonderful companion to have around the house. Separation anxiety is common in this breed, so this dog shouldn’t be kept alone for long periods. For those who want an active, fun-loving, and affectionate companion with a rich history, the Icelandic Sheepdog may be just right for you!
