ICELANDIC SHEEPDOG

Apartment Living

Good for 1st Time Owners

Tolerance Levels

Affection for Family

Kid Friendliness

Stranger Friendliness

Ease of Grooming

General Health

Trainability

Prey Drive

Exercise Needs

Energy Level

History

The Icelandic Sheepdog originated from dogs that came along Norwegian settlers (Vikings) to Iceland. This breed is very much similar to the Shetland sheepdog, Welsh Corgi Norwegian, and the Buhund. The dogs are mostly used for herding sheep across the Icelandic countries.

Temperament & Personality

Icelandic Sheepdog puppies are friendly, playful and loves children. They easily gets along with other dogs. It loves to be in the crowd and hates loneliness for a longer period. They usually welcome guests but may bark during the first approach. Icelandic Sheepdog is not at all aggressive towards strangers. These dogs do not like to be with the pet birds and are utmost happy when they are with the family.

Exercise

A daily exercise is essential to keep them physically fit and energized since they are highly active. Jogging and a long walk with playtime in a fenced ground will be adequate.

Grooming

Icelandic dog will require brushing once or twice a week to remove dead hair as they have two coat lengths and both shed remarkably as both the undercoats are dense. Everyday brushing will reduce hair fall. Icelandic Sheepdog is a seasonal shedder, and the undercoat comes out in clumps, during this time regular brushing is recommended. Toothpaste approved by the veterinarian is favored. Trimming of nails once a week is advised.

Health Problems

Major health problems include Patellar Luxation Distichiasis and Hip Dysplasia while minor concerns are cataracts, bilateral cryptorchidism. Recommended random tests are Eye, Hip X-Rays, eye examination and physical examination.

Training

Friaar dog is lovable to the trainers due to their intelligence. They respond very well to training with positive techniques. Keep the dog busy in exciting activities to make them different. Particularly teaching of the commands like “stay,” “stop” makes them highly obedient.