Icelandic Sheepdog
Also known as Íslenskur Fjárhundur · Chien de Berger Islandais · Islandhund · Perro de Pastor Islandés
Iceland, Nordic Watchdogs and Herders
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 42–46 cm
- Weight
- 9–14 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Cheerful
- Friendly
- Vocal
- Intelligent
- Active
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a small-to-medium spitz-type herding dog from Iceland, brought by settlers and used to gather sheep and other farm animals. It has a sturdy, compact body, a thick double coat, a curled tail and prick ears, in shades of tan, red, black and grey, usually with white markings. It is an energetic, cheerful dog and is the only native Icelandic dog.
Temperament
Cheerful, friendly and outgoing, usually good with family and other animals. Vocal and keen to alert owners to visitors. Intelligent and eager to please, though can be independent.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and active play. It enjoys herding games, agility and outdoor activity.
Grooming
Thick double coat sheds seasonally. Brush a few times a week and more during moult.
Care & wellbeing
Barking may need training. Thick coat can be warm in summer.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 11.5 kg adult- Water
- 460 ml–690 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 700 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Icelandic Sheepdog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A spitz-type herding dog brought to Iceland by early settlers and used to gather sheep and ponies. It is a friendly, lively, vocal dog with a thick double coat, known for barking to alert owners.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
Not every Icelandic Sheepdog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Icelandic Sheepdog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Icelandic Sheepdog get?
Adult Icelandic Sheepdogs typically stand about 42–46 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 9–14 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Icelandic Sheepdogs live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Icelandic Sheepdog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Icelandic Sheepdog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Icelandic Sheepdogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Icelandic Sheepdogs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Icelandic Sheepdogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Icelandic Sheepdog live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Icelandic Sheepdogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems. Not every Icelandic Sheepdog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Iceland
- Type
- Nordic Watchdogs and Herders
- Internationally recognised
- 1972