| Country of origin: | Iceland |
| Registries: | AKC FSS, UKC, CKC |
| Occupation: | Herder, watchdog |
| Size: | 16.5 to 18 in tall; weight proportionate to height |
| Longevity: | 14 to 16 years |
| Exercise: | Moderate to active |
| Training: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Moderate |
| Colors: | Fawn, black, blue, brindle, harlequin |
Spitz-type dogs were brought to Iceland by Viking settlers at the end of the 9th century, and from those dogs evolved this tough, agile, enthusiastic, and expert herder, also known as the Icelandic Dog, Islandsk Farehond, and Friaar Dog. Its history is troubled. In the late 19th century, canine distemper reduced numbers drastically. Then, before effective tapeworm treatments were developed, the breed was banned from Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik following the spread of the Echinococcus parasite in humans – the result of dogs consuming contaminated sheep carcasses. The ban still survives today. No longer on the brink of extinction, the Icelandic Sheepdog makes a fine guard dog and companion. It exists mainly in Scandinavia and northern Europe.
The legacy of the Icelandic Sheepdog as herd protector is evident today in its role as watchdog. These dogs won’t hesitate to bark an alarm when their territory is approached.