Icelandic sheepdog is the only dog breed native to Iceland. It is sometimes called the “dog of the Vikings.” The Icelandic sheepdog came to Iceland with the Vikings in the 800’s, but it is thought to be one of the oldest breeds in the world. It is an agile and hardy herding dog. It was originally bred to herd sheep, cattle, and horses.
The Icelandic sheepdog measures up to 18 inches (46 centimeters) tall at the shoulder for males and 16 1/2 inches (42 centimeters) for females. It weighs 25 to 30 pounds (11 to 14 kilograms). There is a marked difference in appearance between male and female Icelandic sheepdogs. The dog’s thick, weather-proof coat may be any of several colors ranging from black to fawn (light beige) to tan, with white markings. The dog may be short-haired or long-haired. It has a foxlike face, pointed ears, and a bushy tail.
Icelandic sheepdogs have a gentle, happy, and extroverted personality. These qualities make them great therapy dogs.
