The Icelandic Sheepdog, or Iceland Dog as he is also known, is believed to be a descendant of small herding dogs brought to Iceland during the time of colonization by the Vikings.
He is an intelligent, lively and affectionate dog and, like most Nordic Spitz breeds, he enjoys the outdoors and regular exercise. He has great self-esteem, determination and endurance, capable of solving many tasks. Used as a guard dog and protector of sheep and lambs from birds of prey, he has excellent eyesight and characteristically observes and barks at everything that approaches from above. Because of his non-aggressive and friendly nature, however, he is not a guard dog but rather a very good watchdog who will always bark an alarm to protect everything that he considers his territory, including property and small animals.
Icelandic Sheepdogs are tough and energetic. Hardy and agile, they are extremely useful for herding and driving livestock or finding lost sheep. However, the dogs are not known for hunting. Icelandic Sheepdogs are very alert and will always give visitors an enthusiastic welcome, without being aggressive. Friendly and cheerful, the Icelandic Sheepdog is inquisitive, playful and unafraid. Most adore children and get along well with other dogs and pets.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is known to be a very healthy and long lived breed with average life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. However, like all breeds of dogs, the Icelandic Sheepdog is known to have some health problems, including:
Hip Dysplasia
Distichiasis — This is thought to be a hereditary eye disorder. Distichiasis occurs when a hair or hairs grow in the band of the eyelid causing irritation to the cornea.
