Icelandic Sheepdog Information & Dog Breed Facts
Collection of all the general dog breed info about Icelandic Sheepdog so you can get to know the breed more.
Group | Pastoral / Herding Dogs |
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Popularity Rank | 144 |
Reviews | 3 |
User Ratings | |
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Common Names & Aliases
What other names is an Icelandic Sheepdog known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed. | Canis IslandicusFriaar DogIceland DogIslandsk FarehondIslenskur FjarhundurIcelandic Spitz |
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Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is an Icelandic Sheepdog? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category. | Purebred |
Size Classification
What size category is an Icelandic Sheepdog? Learn how big the Icelandic Sheepdog breed typically grows. | Medium |
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Weight Statistics
How much does an Icelandic Sheepdog weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Icelandic Sheepdog breed. | 20-30 pounds (9-14 kg) |
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Icelandic Sheepdog? | 25 pounds (11.5 kg) |
Height
How tall is the Icelandic Sheepdog? Icelandic Sheepdog height: | 12-16 inches (31-41 cm) |
Average Height
What is the average height of an Icelandic Sheepdog? | 14 inches (36 cm) |
Price Range
How much does an Icelandic Sheepdog puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Icelandic Sheepdog costs. | $800-$1000 If you choose to purchase the Icelandic Sheepdog, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Icelandic Sheepdog for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Icelandic Sheepdog gets to a happy place. |
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Availability
How easy is it to get a Icelandic Sheepdog? How many Icelandic Sheepdog are there in the world? | Frequent: The Icelandic Sheepdog is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed. Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems. So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision. |
Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is an Icelandic Sheepdog? Discover the Icelandic Sheepdog's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities. | Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Icelandic Sheepdog obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.
The Icelandic Sheepdog ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs. |
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Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train an Icelandic Sheepdog? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's trainability and response to training methods. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure. |
Watchdog Rating
How good is an Icelandic Sheepdog as a watchdog? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's alertness and guarding instincts. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
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Territorial Protection
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog protective of its territory? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's guarding instincts and behavior. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation. |
Personality Traits
What personality does an Icelandic Sheepdog have? Learn about characteristic Icelandic Sheepdog temperament and behavior traits. | AgileEnergeticAlertInquisitiveCheerful |
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Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Icelandic Sheepdog sensitivity: | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.
Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment. |
Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Icelandic Sheepdog a good family dog? | High: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness. |
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Canis Islandicus need? Icelandic Sheepdog social needs: | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone. |
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Icelandic Sheepdog to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Icelandic Sheepdog roam? | The wanderlust potential of the Icelandic Sheepdog is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. |
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Icelandic Sheepdog have high prey drive? | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash. |
Barking Frequency
Does an Icelandic Sheepdog bark a lot? Learn about typical Icelandic Sheepdog vocalization patterns and triggers. | A lot: Icelandic Sheepdog is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.
The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense. |
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Playful Nature
How playful is an Icelandic Sheepdog? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Icelandic Sheepdog breed. | The Icelandic Sheepdog is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play. |
Apartment Adaptability
Can an Icelandic Sheepdog live in an apartment? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's suitability for apartment living. | It is not recommended to keep the Icelandic Sheepdog breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Icelandic Sheepdog indoors by introducing daily routines. |
Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is an Icelandic Sheepdog to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's flexibility to new situations. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner. |
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Alone Time Tolerance
Can an Icelandic Sheepdog be left alone? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's tolerance to solitude. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them. |
Bite Risk Assessment
What is an Icelandic Sheepdog biting potential? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's bite risk factors. | Low 🔽 The Icelandic Sheepdog has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.) |
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Mouthing Tendency
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog mouthy? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's tendency to use mouth during play. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Icelandic Sheepdog dogs need to be taught a good attitude. |
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is an Icelandic Sheepdog bite? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's bite force measured in PSI. | Between 200 and 400 PSI ⏺ Icelandic Sheepdog bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Icelandic Sheepdog measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Icelandic Sheepdog is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Icelandic Sheepdog bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Icelandic Sheepdog bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Icelandic Sheepdog puppy not to bite from an early age.
The Icelandic Sheepdog, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained. However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for. In conclusion, while the Icelandic Sheepdog bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Icelandic Sheepdog can be a loyal and protective companion for your family. |
Average Lifespan
How long does an Icelandic Sheepdog live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Icelandic Sheepdog breed. | 11-15 years The average lifespan of Icelandic Sheepdog: 13 years |
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Climate Tolerance
How well does an Icelandic Sheepdog handle different weather? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's climate adaptability. | Prefers cold weather The Icelandic Sheepdog can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months. |
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in an Icelandic Sheepdog? Discover typical conditions affecting the Icelandic Sheepdog breed. | Icelandic Sheepdogs tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
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Vet Care Frequency
How often does an Icelandic Sheepdog need vet visits? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's veterinary care requirements. | Frequent The Icelandic Sheepdog should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian. |
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Icelandic Sheepdog breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Icelandic Sheepdog breed? Most common health risks of Icelandic Sheepdog: | Hip Dysplasia Patellar LuxationEye Problems |
Energy Rating
How energetic is an Icelandic Sheepdog? Understand daily activity needs of the Icelandic Sheepdog breed. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you. |
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Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Icelandic Sheepdog need? How much exercise do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs require per day?
Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs need a lot of exercises? | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends. |
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Icelandic Sheepdog breed need? | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you. |
Obesity Tendency
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog prone to weight gain? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's obesity risks. | Average: The Icelandic Sheepdog has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.
If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Icelandic Sheepdog weight regularly. |
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Food Consumption
How much food does an Icelandic Sheepdog need daily? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's feeding requirements. | 1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. |
Allergy Friendliness
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog hypoallergenic? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's suitability for allergy sufferers. | No Icelandic Sheepdog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair. |
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Coat Colors
What colors does an Icelandic Sheepdog come in? Discover all possible Icelandic Sheepdog color variations. | BlackGray Red Cream White Fawn Chocolate Gold |
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does an Icelandic Sheepdog need? Learn about Icelandic Sheepdog coat maintenance requirements. | Average: The Icelandic Sheepdog requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential. Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes. Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath. If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Icelandic Sheepdog, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment. Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby. |
Drooling Tendency
Does an Icelandic Sheepdog drool a lot? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's drooling habits. | The Icelandic Sheepdog is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Icelandic Sheepdog could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Icelandic Sheepdog.
If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible. |
Stinkiness Rating
Does an Icelandic Sheepdog smell bad? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's natural odor levels. | Medium ⏺ The Icelandic Sheepdog has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks. |
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does an Icelandic Sheepdog have? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's fur characteristics. | DenseSoftWavyThickStraight |
Bathing Needs
How often does an Icelandic Sheepdog need baths? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's bathing requirements. | 3-4 weeks More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.
Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean. |
Shedding Level
How much do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Canis Islandicus? Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs shed a lot? | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type. |
Child Compatibility
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog good with children? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's behavior around kids of different ages. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
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Pet Compatibility
How well does an Icelandic Sheepdog get along with other pets? Discover the Icelandic Sheepdog's compatibility with other animals. | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are generally with other pets. |
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Icelandic Sheepdog temperament with other people: | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are stranger-friendly dogs. |
Cat Friendly
How well do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Icelandic Sheepdog breed live with a cat? | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average friendly towards cats. |
Dog Friendly
Is Icelandic Sheepdog good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs get along with other dogs? | Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average friendly towards other dogs. |
Good For First Time Owners
Is Icelandic Sheepdog breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Icelandic Sheepdog breed suitable for first-time owners? | Yes Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality. |
Office Friendly
Are Icelandic Sheepdog dogs good office canines? Do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs? | Yes Icelandic Sheepdog is one of the best dog breeds for office environment |
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Icelandic Sheepdog dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Canis Islandicus temperament with senior people? Are Icelandic Sheepdog dogs good for elderly owners? | Icelandic Sheepdogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people. |
Service Dog Capability
Can an Icelandic Sheepdog be a service dog? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's service work potential. | Not really This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for service purposes. |
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Therapy Work Suitability
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's therapy work aptitude. | Not really This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.
Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes. |
Scent Detection Ability
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog good at detection work? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's scenting abilities. | Not really They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.
Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for detection purposes. |
Search & Rescue Potential
Can an Icelandic Sheepdog do search and rescue? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's SAR capabilities. | Not really This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for SAR purposes. |
Maritime Work Ability
Is an Icelandic Sheepdog good on boats? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's maritime capabilities. | Not really Icelandic Sheepdog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo. Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats. |
Draft Work Capability
Can an Icelandic Sheepdog pull carts? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's drafting abilities. | Not really A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.
Icelandic Sheepdog is not the best breed for drafting purposes. |
Military Service Background
Was an Icelandic Sheepdog used in military service? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's military history. | Not really In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog. |
Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does an Icelandic Sheepdog usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes. | 4-8 puppies |
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Pregnancy Duration
How long is an Icelandic Sheepdog pregnant? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's gestation period. | 60-64 days Reproductive cycle of the female Icelandic Sheepdog: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.
During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge. The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days. The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color. The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months. |
Breeding Frequency
How often can an Icelandic Sheepdog have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals. | Once a year. More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year. |
AKC Classification
What AKC group is an Icelandic Sheepdog in? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's AKC classification. | Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2010 as a Herding breed. |
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FCI Classification
What FCI group is an Icelandic Sheepdog in? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's international classification. | Recognized by FCI in the Spitz and primitive types group, in the Nordic Watchdogs and Herders section. |
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize an Icelandic Sheepdog? Learn about the Icelandic Sheepdog's official recognition. | American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc. |
Icelandic Sheepdog Pros and Cons
- Drooling Tendency: The Icelandic Sheepdog is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
- Lifestyle Adaptability: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
- Child Compatibility: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
- Office Friendly: Icelandic Sheepdog is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
- Senior Citizens Friendly: Icelandic Sheepdogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
- Good For First Time Owners: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
- Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
- Health Concerns: Icelandic Sheepdogs tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
- Allergy Friendliness: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
- Apartment Adaptability: It is not recommended to keep the Icelandic Sheepdog breed in the home.
- Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Icelandic Sheepdog is strong enough to escape from home.
- Alone Time Tolerance: Icelandic Sheepdog dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
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Icelandic Sheepdog Comments, Reviews and Questions
- Arne C
Dec 16, 2022, 7:35:31 AM:
We have an Icelandic sheepdo. Only some of this fits: It does not bark at all, seems highly intelligent, does not mind being left alone for up to 6-7 hours, and it is clean as can be.
- Corgi
Nov 10, 2020, 2:56:40 PM:
wow my best dog friend is a Icelandic sheepdog this didnt lie!
- Styk
Oct 9, 2020, 12:26:53 PM:
I have a dog of this breed and they are incredibly cute and affectionate.