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Icelandic Sheepdog Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Icelandic Sheepdog so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank144
Reviews3
User Ratings
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Icelandic Sheepdog dog profile picture
OriginIceland flagIceland
Other Names
What other names does the Icelandic Sheepdog have?
Canis IslandicusFriaar DogIceland DogIslandsk FarehondIslenskur FjarhundurIcelandic Spitz
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Icelandic Sheepdog Size and Weight

Size
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog small, medium or large dog?

How big do Icelandic Sheepdog get?

What is the average size of an Icelandic Sheepdog?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Icelandic Sheepdog weigh? How much should an Icelandic Sheepdog weight? What is the normal weight of an Icelandic Sheepdog? How much does a full-grown Icelandic Sheepdog weight?
20-30 pounds (9-14 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Icelandic Sheepdog?
25 pounds (11.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Icelandic Sheepdog? Icelandic Sheepdog height:
12-16 inches (31-41 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Icelandic Sheepdog?
14 inches (36 cm)

Icelandic Sheepdog Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Icelandic Sheepdog puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Icelandic Sheepdog in the United States? How much money is an Icelandic Sheepdog?

Where to buy an Icelandic Sheepdog with a good pedigree?

$800-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Icelandic Sheepdog, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Icelandic Sheepdog for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Icelandic Sheepdog gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Icelandic Sheepdog? How many Icelandic Sheepdog are there in the world?
Frequent: The Icelandic Sheepdog is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Icelandic Sheepdog Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Icelandic Sheepdog? Is the Icelandic Sheepdog breed dumb or smart?
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Icelandic Sheepdog obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Icelandic Sheepdog ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Icelandic Sheepdog dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Icelandic Sheepdog?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Icelandic Sheepdog good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Icelandic Sheepdog Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Icelandic Sheepdog have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
AgileEnergeticAlertInquisitiveCheerful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Icelandic Sheepdog sensitivity:
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Icelandic Sheepdog a good family dog?
High: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Canis Islandicus need? Icelandic Sheepdog social needs:
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Icelandic Sheepdog to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Icelandic Sheepdog roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Icelandic Sheepdog is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Icelandic Sheepdog have high prey drive?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Icelandic Sheepdog Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Canis Islandicus bark?
A lot: Icelandic Sheepdog is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Apartment Friendly
Is Icelandic Sheepdog good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Icelandic Sheepdog in an apartment?
It is not recommended to keep the Icelandic Sheepdog breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Icelandic Sheepdog indoors by introducing daily routines.

Icelandic Sheepdog Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Icelandic Sheepdog be left alone? How long can you leave an Icelandic Sheepdog alone?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Icelandic Sheepdog Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Icelandic Sheepdog has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Icelandic Sheepdog? How much bite force does an Icelandic Sheepdog have? How strong is an Icelandic Sheepdog bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Icelandic Sheepdog bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Icelandic Sheepdog measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Icelandic Sheepdog is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Icelandic Sheepdog bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Icelandic Sheepdog bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Icelandic Sheepdog puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Icelandic Sheepdog, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Icelandic Sheepdog bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Icelandic Sheepdog can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Icelandic Sheepdog bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Canis Islandicus? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Icelandic Sheepdog? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Icelandic Sheepdog has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Icelandic Sheepdog do?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Icelandic Sheepdog dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Icelandic Sheepdog Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Icelandic Sheepdogs tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Icelandic Sheepdog breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Icelandic Sheepdog breed? Most common health risks of Icelandic Sheepdog:
Hip Dysplasia Patellar LuxationEye Problems
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Icelandic Sheepdog breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Icelandic Sheepdog see the vet?
Frequent
The Icelandic Sheepdog should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs live? How old can a Icelandic Sheepdog be? What is the age limit of the Icelandic Sheepdog? How many years can the oldest Icelandic Sheepdog live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Icelandic Sheepdog?

How long is the lifespan of an Icelandic Sheepdog?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Icelandic Sheepdog: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers cold weather
The Icelandic Sheepdog can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months.

Icelandic Sheepdog Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Icelandic Sheepdog have? What is the activity level of the Icelandic Sheepdog?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Icelandic Sheepdog need? How much exercise do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs require per day?

Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs need a lot of exercises?

Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Icelandic Sheepdog breed need?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Icelandic Sheepdog Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Icelandic Sheepdog need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Icelandic Sheepdog breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Icelandic Sheepdog? How much food should I feed my Icelandic Sheepdog?
1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Icelandic Sheepdog risk for obesity:
Average: The Icelandic Sheepdog has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Icelandic Sheepdog weight regularly.

Icelandic Sheepdog Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Icelandic Sheepdog have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseSoftWavyThickStraight
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Icelandic Sheepdog coats?
BlackGray Red Cream White Fawn Chocolate Gold
Grooming
How to groom the Icelandic Sheepdog and how often? How often should I take my Icelandic Sheepdog to the groomer?
Average: The Icelandic Sheepdog requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Icelandic Sheepdog, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Canis Islandicus? Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs shed a lot?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Icelandic Sheepdog need a bath? How often should you give an Icelandic Sheepdog a bath? Can I bathe my Icelandic Sheepdog every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Icelandic Sheepdog breed hypoallergenic?
No
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Icelandic Sheepdog has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Icelandic Sheepdog drool?
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Icelandic Sheepdog could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Icelandic Sheepdog.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Icelandic Sheepdog Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs get along with other pets? Are Icelandic Sheepdog dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Icelandic Sheepdog temperament with other people:
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Icelandic Sheepdog dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Icelandic Sheepdog temperament with children:
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Icelandic Sheepdog breed live with a cat?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Icelandic Sheepdog good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs get along with other dogs?
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Icelandic Sheepdog breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Icelandic Sheepdog breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Icelandic Sheepdog dogs good office canines? Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
Yes
Icelandic Sheepdog is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Canis Islandicus temperament with senior people? Are Icelandic Sheepdog dogs good for elderly owners?
Icelandic Sheepdogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Icelandic Sheepdog As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Icelandic Sheepdog be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Icelandic Sheepdog be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Icelandic Sheepdog be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Icelandic Sheepdog be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Icelandic Sheepdog be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Icelandic Sheepdog be a boat dog?

Not really

Icelandic Sheepdog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Icelandic Sheepdog be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Icelandic Sheepdog dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Icelandic Sheepdog Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Icelandic Sheepdog pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Icelandic Sheepdog breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Icelandic Sheepdog: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Icelandic Sheepdog have in a litter? How many puppies can the Icelandic Sheepdog breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Icelandic Sheepdog have? How many puppies can an Icelandic Sheepdog give birth to?
4-8 puppies

Icelandic Sheepdog Recognition

AKC Group
Is Icelandic Sheepdog recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2010 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Is Icelandic Sheepdog recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Spitz and primitive types group, in the Nordic Watchdogs and Herders section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Icelandic Sheepdog breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.

Icelandic Sheepdog Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Drooling Tendency: The Icelandic Sheepdog is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Adaptability: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Icelandic Sheepdog is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Icelandic Sheepdogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Health Issues: Icelandic Sheepdogs tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: It is not recommended to keep the Icelandic Sheepdog breed in the home.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Icelandic Sheepdog is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Rate The Icelandic Sheepdog Breed

Icelandic Sheepdog Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Arne C

    Dec 16, 2022, 7:35:31 AM:

    We have an Icelandic sheepdo. Only some of this fits: It does not bark at all, seems highly intelligent, does not mind being left alone for up to 6-7 hours, and it is clean as can be.

  • Corgi

    Nov 10, 2020, 2:56:40 PM:

    wow my best dog friend is a Icelandic sheepdog this didnt lie!

  • Styk

    Oct 9, 2020, 12:26:53 PM:

    I have a dog of this breed and they are incredibly cute and affectionate.