The Icelandic Sheepdog is member of the Spitz family and originated in Scandinavia. Graves dating back to 8000 BC have been found with Spitz/Icelandic Sheepdog remains.
The dogs were brought to Iceland in 874 by the Vikings. Although other breeds of dogs were brought to Iceland in an attempt to improve the herding instinct; the "original" Sheepdogs have survived in the remote, isolated locations.
Iceland is not a kind environment and has produced in a tough, sturdy dog. Their numbers were reduced during the 10th century because of a severe famine. Because of the severe environment, there has been a ban on importing animals since 1901 and the dog population has stabilized.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is hardy and agile, outgoing, intelligent and inquisitive. It is playful, cheerful and gentle. Although it was bred to guard sheep and herd them, it isn't particularly good at herding; but, it will bark enthusiastically at visitors and guard its home.
The Icelandic Sheepdog can have one of two types of coats, but both are thick, double and water repellent. The coat can be of medium length with a thick, soft undercoat or longer haired with a thick, soft undercoat. The outer coat can be straight or wavy, soft or coarse. The tail should be bushy and the dog will have a thick "ruff" around the neck. The most common colors are tan, chocolate brown, gray and black with white markings on the face.
This medium-sized dog stands about 16 - 18" tall and will need regular brushing to maintain the dense coat.
