Purina New Zealand
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Icelandic Sheepdog

Icelandic Sheepdog

A true Nordic spitz, the Icelandic Sheepdog is distinguished by his prick ears and curled tail. This hardy, agile breed was developed to herd livestock in the mountainous regions of Iceland. Highly intelligent and clever, this sheepdog is an enthusiastic and playful companion that can be quite vocal. The breed sheds his undercoat twice a year and requires moderate grooming.

DID YOU KNOW? Iceland’s only native canine, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a popular breed that has been featured on postage stamps. Believed to be the world’s oldest breed, the Icelandic Sheepdog was brought to Iceland by the Vikings from 874 to 930 A.D., earning him the nickname “dog of the Vikings.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: Icelandic Spitz, Iceland Dog, Íslenskur fjárhundur, Islandsk Farehond, Friaar Dog, Canis islandicus

The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
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Pet Card

  • Living Considerations: Good with children, not hypoallergenic, not suitable for apartment living
  • Size: Medium
  • Height: Males – 46 centimetres, Females – 42 centimetres
  • Weight: Should be proportionate to height
  • Coat: Long or Short
  • Energy: Medium
  • Colour: Shades of tan from cream to reddish brown, chocolate brown, gray, or black with white markings
  • Activities: Obedience, Rally, Agility, Therapy, Flyball, Herding, Conformation
  • Indoor/Outdoor: Both

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