Icelandic Sheepdog
Male: 11-14 kg; Female: 9-11 kg
Male: 46 cm; Female: 42 cm
12-15 years
Iceland
About the Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland's only native dog breed, brought to the island by Viking settlers. A member of the Spitz family, this breed is characterized by its prick ears and curled tail. They are remarkably hardy, having evolved to work livestock in the rugged Icelandic terrain. Their personality is distinctively friendly and lacks aggression, making them devoted companions as well as capable workers. Physically, they are slightly below medium size with a rectangular silhouette. Their most defining trait is their vocal nature; they use their bark to herd animals in the mist and ward off predatory birds. In a domestic setting, this translates to a dog that is highly communicative and always alert to its surroundings, requiring an owner who appreciates an active, 'chatty' companion.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Icelandic Sheepdog must display a rectangular frame with a confident, lively expression. The movement should be agile and ground-covering, showing the endurance required for mountain herding. A key feature is the tail, which should be high-set and curled over the back.
In Australia
The Icelandic Sheepdog was recognised by Dogs Australia in 2018.
Bred For
Herding livestock (sheep, cattle, and horses) and guarding lambs from birds of prey.
Temperament
Hard-working, alert, friendly, and inquisitive. They are known for being exceptionally cheerful and courageous herders.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate to High. Requires daily long walks combined with mental stimulation or herding games to satisfy their working instincts.
Grooming Needs
Moderate. They require regular brushing to manage the thick double coat, with increased frequency during seasonal shedding 'blows'.
Living Suitability
Not ideally suited for apartment living due to their vocal nature. They thrive in homes with a secure yard where they can patrol and exercise.
Good with Kids
Excellent. They are known for being patient and gentle with children, though supervision is always recommended with younger kids.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs and household pets, though their herding instinct may lead them to 'round up' smaller animals.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please. They learn quickly but can be sensitive to harsh corrections; positive reinforcement works best.
Coat & Colours
Double coat: a thick, waterproof outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Exists in both short-haired and long-haired varieties.. Various shades of tan (ranging from cream to reddish brown), chocolate, grey, and black. Always accompanied by white markings.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a vocal herder by nature, meaning they are more likely to bark at environmental changes, birds, or visitors—this is a breed trait that requires management rather than total elimination. They are prone to heavy seasonal shedding, or 'blowing their coat,' which requires significant vacuuming and grooming during these periods. Prospective owners should be aware that they are predisposed to hip dysplasia and patellar luxation; while not every dog will be affected, maintaining a lean weight and choosing breeders who health-screen is essential. Additionally, they may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, as they are intensely pack-oriented. They are also more likely to develop digestive sensitivities if fed low-quality fillers, often thriving much better on a fresh, species-appropriate diet like Majestik to avoid skin irritations and maintain their thick coat lustre.
Feeding Guide for Your Icelandic Sheepdog
Healthy Weight
9-14 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
220-420 grams
For an adult Icelandic Sheepdog, feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily in high-quality fresh food. This should be split into two meals. Adjust portions based on individual activity levels to prevent obesity, as their thick coat can sometimes mask weight gain.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality protein-rich diet. As an active working breed, they thrive on nutrient-dense fresh or raw diets that support joint health and maintain a thick double coat.
For Australian owners using Majestik Pet Food, a rotation of Beef, Lamb, and Kangaroo provides excellent lean protein sources. Inclusion of fish or fish oil is highly recommended to support their dense double coat and skin health. Portion sizes should be strictly monitored to maintain a lean frame, supporting their joints against predispositions like hip dysplasia.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Icelandic Sheepdog Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Icelandic Sheepdog? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-6 puppies
Icelandic Sheepdog Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Icelandic Sheepdog owners
Other Medium Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
