Icelandic Sheepdog
Lively, cheerful, and eager to please, this spitz excels as both a herding partner and affectionate family companion. Its playful spirit and alert nature make every day brighter.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
46–48 cm (male)
42–44 cm (female)
WEIGHT
11–16 kg (male)
9–14 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–15 years
Icelandic Sheepdog: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Icelandic Sheepdog isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Icelandic Sheepdog's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Icelandic Sheepdog is friendly, cheerful, and alert, often displaying a strong attachment to family and a social nature with people and other dogs.
Key Personality Traits
Warm and welcoming with people and dogs
Quick learner, responds well to training
Highly active, needs regular exercise
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to new environments and changes
Strengths
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly alert and responsive to surroundings
- Energetic and enjoys regular activity
- Strong herding instincts and work ethic
- Adaptable to various climates and environments
Challenges
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Requires frequent brushing due to double coat
- Can be vocal and bark frequently
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- May chase small animals due to prey drive
Protect your Icelandic Sheepdog
Icelandic Sheepdog are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and cataracts. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Icelandic Sheepdogs are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Quick learner
Overall rating
This breed is intelligent, quick to learn, and responsive to consistent, positive training, making them suitable for obedience and agility activities.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
Icelandic Sheepdogs have high energy levels and thrive with daily physical exercise and mental stimulation, requiring regular walks, play, and tasks to stay healthy and content.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Icelandic Sheepdogs are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Icelandic Sheepdog would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Intelligent and trainable, but needs consistent socialization and engagement
Apartment Living
Needs space and can be vocal, which may disturb neighbors
Active Lifestyle
Energetic nature matches active lifestyles and outdoor activities
Kids
Gentle and playful demeanor works well with young children
Multiple Pets
Social, but may try to herd or dominate other pets
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods, leading to stress or destructive behavior
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Icelandic Sheepdogs compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Icelandic Sheepdog
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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