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Icelandic Sheepdog

Icelandic Sheepdog is a medium herding breed from Iceland also known as Icelandic Spitz, Friaar Dog, Islandsk Farehund.

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Icelandic Sheepdog

Breed overview

Icelandic Sheepdog is a medium herding breed from Iceland also known as Icelandic Spitz, Friaar Dog, Islandsk Farehund.

Iceland's only native dog breed, brought to the island by Viking settlers around 874-930 AD. They're mentioned in Icelandic sagas and were essential for survival in the harsh Nordic climate, herding sheep and horses.

People looking into Icelandic Sheepdog usually prepare for High exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 25–30 lbs • 16–18 in.

Icelandic SpitzFriaar DogIslandsk Farehund

History and origin

Icelandic Sheepdog is tied to originating from Iceland, specifically Iceland, with sources often placing its development around 874 CE.

Icelandic Sheepdog is described here as placed in the herding group and marked as an established breed.

Iceland's only native dog breed, brought to the island by Viking settlers around 874-930 AD. They're mentioned in Icelandic sagas and were essential for survival in the harsh Nordic climate, herding sheep and horses.

Browse dog breeds from Iceland Browse more herding breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
herding
Size
Medium
Origin country
Iceland
Region
Iceland
Origin year
874 CE
Weight
25–30 lbs
Height
16–18 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
5 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 5/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Icelandic Sheepdog is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleThickWeather Resistant

Icelandic Sheepdog is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized spitz with rectangular build
  • Dense double coat in various colors with white markings
  • Erect, triangular ears and curled tail
  • Confident, happy expression with dark eyes

What this breed is known for

  • Iceland's only native dog breed, brought to the island by Viking settlers around 874-930 AD. They're mentioned in Icelandic sagas and were essential for survival in the harsh Nordic climate, herding sheep and horses.
  • Nearly extinct twice in the 20th century due to disease outbreaks and strict import laws. By the 1950s, only about 50 dogs remained. The breed was saved through dedicated conservation efforts and is now Iceland's national dog.
  • Known for their unique herding style - they drive livestock by barking rather than nipping, and they naturally work above the flock on mountainsides. They're the only dog breed mentioned in Icelandic law regarding livestock protection.

Health and care notes

Icelandic Sheepdog is noted here for High exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions

Coat details: Double, Thick, Weather Resistant

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Icelandic Sheepdog come from?

Icelandic Sheepdog is closely associated with Iceland, especially Iceland in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Icelandic Sheepdog get?

Typical size details for Icelandic Sheepdog on this page are 25–30 lbs, 16–18 in, 12–14 years.

What is the Icelandic Sheepdog known for?

Iceland's only native dog breed, brought to the island by Viking settlers around 874-930 AD. They're mentioned in Icelandic sagas and were essential for survival in the harsh Nordic climate, herding sheep and horses.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Icelandic Sheepdog reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.