Icelandic Shepherd Dog
Country: Islande Life expectancy: 12 years old Height: between 38 and 44 cm females / 42 to 48 cm males Weight: between 10 and 15 kg
History, origin & features
The only dog native to Iceland, the Icelandic Sheepdog arrived with the first Viking settlers (874-930 A.D.), adapted to the harsh climate and habits of the local population and became indispensable as a herding dog. The Icelandic Sheepdog is a herding dog par excellence: lively and alert, he can be trusted. Naturally cheerful and enthusiastic, with no malice, they enjoy human company and are not suspicious. With their playful instincts, Icelandic Shepherds are perfect for children, as well as other family pets. Icelandic Shepherds resemble Nordic Spitzes. Icelandic Shepherd Dogs are medium-sized to small, with erect ears and a curled tail. It's a breed that exudes joie de vivre just by looking at it. They come in two coat varieties: semi-long-haired and long-haired, with a thick, soft undercoat. As far as color is concerned, all are permitted, but only one color should predominate (fawn, brown, gray, black).