The Icelandic Sheepdog, also known at times as the Iceland Dog, the Iceland Spitz, the Islandsk Spidshunde, the Islandsk Farehond, the Friaar Dog and the Fiaarhundur, is Iceland’s only native canine breed. It is an ancient breed that was developed for the purpose of herding, controlling and guarding flocks of sheep and rounding up other types of livestock. It also was (and still is) used to pull sleds and prized as a family companion, when not working in Iceland’s tough terrain. These are spunky, friendly, small-to-medium-sized dogs with pricked ears, plume-like tails and thick, warm coats that come in both long and short-haired varieties. The Icelandic Sheepdog is so adored in its native country, both for its working capabilities and for its companionship, that it has been depicted on one of its postage stamps. The Icelandic Sheepdog was recognized by the American Kennel Club as a member of its Herding Group quite recently, in 2010.
The ancestors of the Icelandic Sheepdog are believed to have arrived on the island of Iceland between 874 and 930 AD, coming with the first Norwegian settlers (the Vikings) and their livestock. This is thought to be one of the very oldest of all domestic dog breeds. Icelandic Sheepdogs were described in the Icelandic Sagas more than one thousand years ago and are mentioned in modern literature dating back to the 16th century. During the
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a naturally lively, alert, outgoing and confident breed, without being overly pushy or aggressive. The standard published by the American Kennel Club describes them as being “cheerful, friendly, inquisitive, playful and unafraid.” They are known for having a solid, willing work ethic. Icelandic Sheepdogs are extremely social animals that will not thrive if they are separated from their people for prolonged periods of time. They are gentle, patient and especially fond
The Icelandic Sheepdog is one of the many spitz-like breeds. It is smallish in size, with pointy erect ears that rotate to pick up the slightest sounds from almost any direction. The high-set, fluffy tail of this breed curls tightly over and touches its back. When looked at from the side, Icelandic Sheepdogs are muscular and rectangular in shape. Their facial expression is kind, intelligent and happy, which is accentuated by the dark rims around
The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Icelandic Sheepdog Pictures and Icelandic Sheepdog images. Get an in depth look at the Icelandic Sheepdog nd see the many things that this breed has to offer.