Overview:

Icelandic sheepdog also known as Iceland dog is a medium sized dog of the Spitz family having a characteristic body conformation particular with the Spitz dogs. The predominant color is white with other colors. This dog is very energetic needing a lot of exercise to keep it happy.

Country of Origin:

Norway

Size type:

Medium dog breeds

Character: 

This is a high-spirited and friendly dog which is sociable, equable, intelligent and eager to learn, affectionate, attentive and vigilant, that is hard on itself, brave and can be stubborn. It likes to bark.

Breed Group:

Herding dog breeds (AKC)

Height:

The shoulder-height is 43-47cm (17-18 ½ in) for dogs and 41-45cm (16 ½ - 17 ½ in) for bitches.

Weight:

The weight is 14-18kg (31-39lb) for dogs and 12-16kg (26 ½ -35 ½ lb) for bitches.

Temperament:

This delightful family dog needs quite a lot of exercise to keep it happy. Take it regularly for longer walks, giving it chance to run and play off the lead. These dogs like to be part of the family and regard being left on their own as a severe punishment.

Coat:

The Iceland Dog has a double-layered coat of soft, sleek hairs. The predominant colors are white with pink markings and light roe-deer brown with black tips to the hairs. A few dogs turn up that are black with white markings.  

Care:

The coat of the Iceland Dog does not require much attention. Comb out the loose hairs of the undercoat during the moult.

This nice family dog needs quite some exercise to feel happy. Take it on long walks regularly and let it run and play freely. This breed bonds strongly to the family. If they are left alone major parts of the day, this will be felt as a severe punishment.

Training:

The training of the Iceland Dog is not usually difficult. The breed learns quickly and is intelligent. Handle them always with utmost consistency and in a friendly manner, trying to bring as much variety as possible into the exercises. Bear in mind that the dog must see the purpose of the command. They do quite well at both fly-ball and agility skills trials.

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