If you want a dog that will follow you from room to room, bark at every bird that crosses the sky, and greet every stranger like a long-lost friend, the Icelandic Sheepdog might just be your soulmate. Iceland’s only native dog breed has been working alongside humans for over 1,100 years — and in all that time, they have never learned to shut up. Not even a little bit.
What they lack in volume control, they more than make up for in loyalty, cheerfulness, and an almost absurd level of devotion to their people. These medium-small spitz-type dogs look like foxes, act like shadows, and shed like it’s their full-time job. They are one of the rarest breeds in the world, with roughly 25,000 registered globally, and finding one in Australia takes patience, planning, and usually a waiting list that stretches well over a year.
This guide covers everything you need to know about owning an Icelandic Sheepdog in Australia — from the honest costs and health realities to the shedding situation (brace yourself) and why this cheerful little Viking dog might just change your life.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Pastoral (ANKC) / Herding (AKC) / FCI Group 5 – Spitz & Primitive Types |
| Origin | Iceland (brought by Viking settlers from 874 AD) |
| Height (Male) | 46 cm (18 inches) ideal |
| Height (Female) | 42 cm (16.5 inches) ideal |
| Weight (Male) | 14–18 kg (30–40 lbs) |
| Weight (Female) | 9–14 kg (20–30 lbs) |
| Coat Type | Double coat – two varieties: long-haired and short-haired |
| Coat Colours | Tan (cream to reddish-brown), chocolate brown, grey, black – always with white markings |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Temperament | Friendly, cheerful, loyal, vocal, confident, affectionate |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate to high – 45–90 minutes daily |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate – weekly brushing, daily during shedding season |
| Shedding Level | Heavy – blows coat twice yearly |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Good with Children | Yes – gentle and patient, especially with older children |
| Good with Other Pets | Yes – typically social with dogs and cats when socialised |
| Barking Level | High – bred to bark while herding, very vocal breed |
| Apartment Friendly | Possible with adequate exercise, but barking may be an issue |
| ANKC Registered | Yes – Pastoral Group |
| Estimated Price (AUD) | $3,500–$6,000+ (extremely rare in Australia) |
| Rarity | Rare – approximately 25,000 registered worldwide; ~100 puppies born annually in Iceland |
History & Origins
Viking Settlers and a 1,100-Year Legacy
The Icelandic Sheepdog arrived on Iceland’s shores with Norse settlers beginning in 874 AD. To anyone’s knowledge, there were no dogs on the uninhabited island before then. These early spitz-type dogs, closely related to the Norwegian Buhund and Swedish Vallhund, were brought to help manage sheep, cattle, and horses across Iceland’s rugged volcanic terrain. The breed’s claims of ancient origin are backed by both archaeological and written evidence — canine remains found in Scandinavian graves dating back thousands of years share genetic similarities with today’s Icelandic Sheepdog.
For centuries, these dogs were the backbone of Icelandic farming life. They herded livestock across vast pastures, located lost sheep in snow and mountains, rounded up horses, and even retrieved puffins from underground burrows. Their characteristic bark was not a flaw but a feature — essential for driving stock and communicating with shepherds across great distances.
Near Extinction and the Fight to Survive
In the late 19th century, a devastating plague of canine distemper and a parasitic tapeworm epidemic killed over 75% of Iceland’s sheepdogs. The Icelandic government responded by banning the importation of dogs and later imposing a burdensome dog tax that further reduced the population. By the mid-20th century, the breed was teetering on the brink of total extinction, surviving only in remote rural areas.
The rescue effort began in the 1960s when dedicated Icelandic breeders like Páll A. Pálsson and Sigríður Pétursdóttir worked to locate remaining dogs and rebuild breeding lines. British archaeologist Mark Watson played a pivotal role in the 1950s by exporting breeding dogs to California to safeguard the gene pool. The Icelandic Kennel Club, founded in 1969, formalised preservation efforts. In 1994, the Icelandic parliament declared the Icelandic Sheepdog part of the country’s cultural heritage, granting it protected status as a national breed.
International Recognition and Australia
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) published its standard in 2007, and the American Kennel Club officially recognised the breed in 2010. The breed is also recognised by Australia’s ANKC, the UK Kennel Club, the Canadian Kennel Club, and numerous other national bodies. In 1996, the Icelandic Sheepdog International Cooperation (ISIC) was formed with ten European member kennel clubs to coordinate global breeding efforts.
In Australia, the Icelandic Sheepdog is classified in the Pastoral Group under ANKC. The breed is extremely rare here, with only a handful of registered breeders — primarily in Victoria and New South Wales. Most Australian Icelandic Sheepdogs trace their pedigree to imported lines from Europe or Scandinavia.
A Working Dog, Not a Pet — Until Now
For most of their history, Icelandic Sheepdogs were strictly working dogs. They earned their keep by herding sheep and horses across Iceland’s volcanic terrain, locating stray animals buried under snow, and rounding up semi-wild Icelandic horses for seasonal gatherings. Their bark was a working tool — loud enough to carry across valleys and direct livestock without nipping or biting. They were also known to retrieve puffins from cliff-side burrows, a uniquely Icelandic job that speaks to their agility and determination.
Today, while some Icelandic Sheepdogs still work on farms in Iceland’s rural areas, most live as companion animals. The breed has also found modern working roles, including search and rescue operations with Iceland’s SAR teams, where their stamina and determination make them valuable in avalanche searches. Their transition from working farm dog to beloved companion has been remarkably smooth, largely because their temperament was already ideally suited to family life.
Shakespeare Knew Them First
The Icelandic Sheepdog even has a literary pedigree. In the mid-1500s, Swedish clergyman Olaus Magnus noted that thick-coated Icelandic dogs were popular among the Swedish upper class, particularly women and priests. British aristocracy followed suit. Abraham Fleming described them in his 1576 work “Of English Dogges” as curled, rough dogs greatly prized despite their unkempt appearance. Shakespeare himself mentioned the breed in Henry V, referring to “prick-ear’d cur of Iceland.” Not the most flattering mention, but when Shakespeare writes about your breed, you’ve made it.
Temperament & Personality
If you could bottle the personality of an Icelandic Sheepdog, you’d have liquid sunshine. These dogs are famous for their cheerful, outgoing temperament. They greet strangers like old friends, follow their owners from room to room, and wear a permanent “smile” that melts hearts on contact. The breed standard itself describes them as having a “gentle, intelligent and happy” expression — and that is not marketing. They really do look like they’re having the best day of their life, every single day.
Icelandic Sheepdogs are deeply affectionate and form strong bonds with every member of the household. Unlike some working breeds that bond primarily with one person, the Icie (as they’re often called) distributes love democratically. They are patient and gentle with children, social with other dogs, and generally accepting of cats when properly introduced.
There is no way around it: Icelandic Sheepdogs bark. A lot. This is not a defect — it is a defining breed characteristic. For centuries, these dogs used their voice to herd livestock, alert shepherds to predators, and communicate across Iceland’s vast landscapes. That instinct is alive and well in your living room.
They bark when someone arrives. They bark when someone leaves. They bark at birds, planes, the postman, and sometimes at absolutely nothing you can identify. Separation anxiety can amplify this, as Icelandic Sheepdogs strongly dislike being left alone. If you live in an apartment or have noise-sensitive neighbours, this breed demands serious consideration and early, consistent bark management training. The barking can be reduced with training, but it cannot be eliminated entirely. If a quiet dog is your priority, the Icelandic Sheepdog is not for you.
These dogs thrive on human companionship and suffer when isolated. They are not kennel dogs. They are not backyard dogs. They are “wherever you are” dogs. Many owners describe them as shadows — always underfoot, always watching, always ready to participate in whatever you’re doing.
Their herding instinct means they may try to herd children, cars, and other pets. They are generally not aggressive — having evolved in a country without natural land predators, the Icelandic Sheepdog has limited hunting instincts and virtually no aggressive tendencies. They make excellent watchdogs (all that barking is good for something), but they are all bark and no bite. An Icelandic Sheepdog will loudly announce a stranger’s arrival, then wag its tail and beg for pats.
If there is one thing every Icelandic Sheepdog owner agrees on, it is that this breed does not handle being left alone. Separation anxiety is the most commonly reported behavioural challenge, and it manifests primarily through excessive barking, destruction, and general distress. An Icie left alone in a house will bark continuously, and we mean continuously — not for five minutes, not for ten, but potentially for hours.
This is not a breed you can leave at home while you work a nine-to-five office job without a plan. Solutions include crate training from puppyhood, providing a companion animal (another dog or even a cat), arranging for a dog walker or doggy daycare, or working from home. Many breeders will not sell to buyers who plan to leave the dog alone for extended periods. This is not gate-keeping — it is breed knowledge. The Icelandic Sheepdog was literally bred to be with its humans at all times, and 1,100 years of selective breeding does not switch off because you have a commute.
Despite being one of the friendliest breeds on the planet, the Icelandic Sheepdog makes a surprisingly effective watchdog. They will alert you to every visitor, every delivery driver, every possum on the fence, and every suspicious leaf blowing across the yard. Their bark is loud, persistent, and unmistakable. However, they are all bark and absolutely no bite. An Icelandic Sheepdog will loudly announce a burglar’s arrival, then enthusiastically show them where the treats are kept. If you want a guard dog, look elsewhere. If you want an alarm system with a waggy tail, the Icie is your breed.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is widely regarded as an excellent family dog. They are patient, tolerant, and genuinely enjoy the company of children. Their medium-small size means they are sturdy enough for supervised play without being large enough to accidentally knock a toddler over. Older children who can participate in training and exercise are particularly good matches.
They typically get along well with other dogs and even cats, especially when raised together. Their social nature means they actually benefit from having a companion animal — many breeders recommend a second pet to help manage separation anxiety when the family is away.
Health & Genetic Conditions
The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally considered a healthy breed, benefiting from a relatively diverse gene pool that was carefully managed during conservation efforts. However, like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain conditions. Knowing what to watch for helps you catch problems early and budget accordingly.
| Condition | Description | Estimated AUD Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Malformation of hip joint leading to arthritis and lameness. Screen breeding dogs via OFA or PennHIP. | $1,500–$8,000+ |
| Elbow Dysplasia | Developmental disorder of elbow joint causing forelimb pain, especially after exercise. | $2,000–$6,000 |
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap slips out of position. Common in small-medium breeds. Ranges from asymptomatic to requiring surgery. | $1,500–$5,000 |
| Cataracts | Clouding of the eye lens causing vision impairment. Often hereditary. Surgery can restore vision. | $2,500–$5,000 per eye |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Inherited progressive blindness. Not painful but not curable. Genetic testing available. | No treatment – management only |
| Distichiasis | Extra eyelashes growing from eyelid margin. Can irritate the cornea and cause ulcers. | $500–$2,000 |
| Retinal Dysplasia | Inherited condition where retina develops abnormally. Ranges from mild to complete blindness. | No treatment available |
| Cryptorchidism | One or both testicles fail to descend. Increases risk of testicular cancer. Neutering recommended. | $500–$1,500 |
| Allergies | Environmental or food allergies causing skin irritation, itching, and GI issues. | $200–$1,500/year ongoing |
Recommended Health Screenings
The minimum recommended health testing for Icelandic Sheepdogs includes CAER eye examinations and OFA or PennHIP hip evaluations. Reputable breeders should provide clearances for both parents. Additional tests for patellar luxation and elbow dysplasia are also valuable.
Lifespan & Longevity
Icelandic Sheepdogs typically live 12–15 years, which is solid for a breed of their size. Many well-cared-for Icies exceed this range. Their relatively robust health, combined with centuries of natural selection in harsh Icelandic conditions, has produced a hardy breed that ages well when given proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care.
| Life Stage | Key Care Focus |
|---|---|
| Puppy (0–12 months) | Vaccinations, socialisation, crate training introduction. Start positive reinforcement training early. Three meals daily to prevent hypoglycaemia. |
| Adolescent (1–2 years) | Continue structured training and socialisation. Energy levels peak. Transition to twice-daily feeding. First adult dental check. |
| Adult (2–8 years) | Maintain consistent exercise routine (45–90 min daily). Annual vet checks. Monitor weight to prevent obesity. Dental care ongoing. |
| Senior (8+ years) | Bi-annual vet visits. Joint supplements may help. Adjust exercise intensity. Senior-specific diet. Watch for cataracts and mobility changes. |
Longevity Tips
Keep your Icelandic Sheepdog at a healthy weight — obesity puts extra stress on joints already predisposed to dysplasia. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for their life stage. Maintain regular dental care, as dental disease is the most common chronic problem in dogs and can affect overall health. Provide consistent mental stimulation to keep this intelligent breed engaged and happy throughout life.
Grooming & Care
The Icelandic Sheepdog’s gorgeous double coat is one of its most striking features — and one of its biggest maintenance commitments. Whether your dog has the long-haired or short-haired variety, you are signing up for a life of fur management. The good news? Unlike many breeds, the Icelandic Sheepdog should never be clipped or trimmed. Their coat is presented in a natural, unaltered state. The breed standard actually penalises trimmed coats in the show ring.
| Task | Frequency | Notes / Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing | 1–2 times weekly (daily during shedding season) | Slicker brush + undercoat rake |
| Coat Blow | Twice yearly (spring and autumn) – heavy shedding for 2–4 weeks | Undercoat rake, deshedding tool, patience |
| Bathing | Every 6–8 weeks or as needed | Dog-specific shampoo – avoid over-bathing |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Clippers or Dremel |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly check, clean as needed | Vet-approved ear cleaner |
| Dental Care | Daily brushing ideal; minimum 3x weekly | Dog toothpaste + brush |
| Coat Trimming | NOT RECOMMENDED – coat should remain natural | N/A – breed standard faults trimmed coats |
| Professional Grooming | Optional – mainly for bath and blow-dry during coat blow | $80–$130 per session |
The Shedding Truth
Let’s be clear: Icelandic Sheepdogs shed. They shed year-round at a moderate level, and then twice a year they “blow” their entire undercoat over the course of two to four weeks. During coat blow season, you will find tufts of fur on every surface of your home, embedded in your clothes, and floating through the air like tiny clouds. A good robot vacuum and a quality deshedding tool are not luxuries — they are survival equipment.
The breed is not hypoallergenic. If anyone in your household has dog allergies, the Icelandic Sheepdog is probably not the right choice. One silver lining: the breed is naturally clean and does not tend to develop the strong “doggy odour” common in many other breeds.
Coat Adapts to Climate
An interesting trait of the Icelandic Sheepdog’s coat is its adaptability. Dogs living in warmer climates will naturally develop a thinner coat, while those in cooler regions grow a thicker one. This is worth knowing for Australian owners — your Icie’s coat may not be as dense as one living in Scandinavia, but it will still shed heavily during seasonal changes.
Exercise Needs
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a moderate to high energy breed that was built for all-day work on Icelandic farms. An adult Icie needs 45 to 90 minutes of daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. This does not need to be a gruelling marathon — a mix of walks, play sessions, and off-leash time in a securely fenced area works well.
These dogs excel in canine sports including agility, rally, obedience, tracking, herding trials, and barn hunt. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them natural competitors, and the mental stimulation of structured activities goes a long way toward preventing boredom-related behaviours.
One important note: Icelandic Sheepdogs are not reliable off-leash in unfenced areas. Their herding instinct means they will chase moving objects — cars, bikes, birds, neighbourhood cats — and their focus shifts entirely to the “prey.” Always exercise in fenced areas or on-leash.
Australian Climate Considerations
The Icelandic Sheepdog was bred for subarctic conditions and prefers cold weather. Their thick double coat makes them vulnerable to overheating in Australia’s warmer months, particularly in Queensland, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. During summer, exercise should be shifted to early morning or late evening. Always provide shade, fresh water, and never leave an Icie in a hot car or unshaded yard. If you live in a consistently hot climate, think carefully about whether this breed suits your environment.
Conversely, if you live in cooler parts of southern Australia — Victoria, Tasmania, the ACT, or highland areas of NSW — the Icelandic Sheepdog will feel right at home. They genuinely enjoy cold weather and will happily romp through rain that would send other breeds running for the couch.
Under-Exercised Icelandic Sheepdogs
A bored or under-exercised Icie will find ways to entertain itself, and you probably will not appreciate the methods. Excessive barking, digging, chewing, and attempting to herd anything that moves (including your children) are common signs that this breed is not getting enough physical and mental stimulation. If you cannot commit to daily activity, this is not the breed for you.
Water Babies
A lesser-known trait of the Icelandic Sheepdog is that many of them absolutely love water. Swimming, wading, splashing through puddles, and even boating are common favourites. If you live near a beach, lake, or have a pool, your Icie may well become an avid swimmer. This can be a fantastic outlet for exercise, particularly during warmer months when land-based activity needs to be limited. Just remember that even water-loving dogs need supervision, and their thick double coat can become waterlogged, making it harder to swim for extended periods.
Training Guide
Icelandic Sheepdogs are intelligent, eager to please, and generally easy to train. They respond beautifully to positive reinforcement and will shut down completely if subjected to harsh corrections. This is a sensitive breed that wants desperately to make you happy — use that to your advantage with rewards-based methods, consistency, and patience.
| Age | Training Focus |
|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks | Socialisation, crate training, name recognition, basic housetraining, gentle handling. Begin bark management early — teach “quiet” command. |
| 3–6 months | Puppy classes, sit, down, stay, recall basics. Introduce leash walking. Continue socialisation with people, dogs, sounds, and environments. |
| 6–12 months | Adolescence – consistency is key. Proof basic commands in new environments. Begin impulse control exercises. May test boundaries. |
| 1–2 years | Advance to intermediate training. Introduce dog sports (agility, rally, herding). Reinforce recall and leash manners. Address any emerging behavioural issues. |
| 2+ years | Ongoing enrichment and training. Most Icies mature into well-behaved adults by 2–3 years. Maintain mental stimulation throughout life. |
Barking Management
Training an Icelandic Sheepdog not to bark at all is like training the sun not to rise. It is not going to happen. What you can do is teach them when barking is appropriate and when it is not. Start early with the “quiet” command, reward silence consistently, and provide enough stimulation that they are not barking out of sheer boredom. Many breeders recommend crate training from a young age to help manage separation-related barking.
Dog Sports and Activities
If you are interested in dog sports, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a fantastic choice. Their agility, intelligence, and desire to work with their handler make them competitive in multiple disciplines. In Australia, look into agility trials, rally obedience, tracking, and herding events through your state kennel club. Barn hunt is another growing sport that suits their natural curiosity and determination. The key advantage of the Icelandic Sheepdog in sports is their versatility — they may not be the absolute best at any one thing, but they are genuinely good at almost everything they try.
Suitable for First-Time Owners?
Yes, with a caveat. Icelandic Sheepdogs are among the more forgiving herding breeds and their eagerness to please makes them manageable for first-time owners who commit to training classes and consistent daily routines. However, the barking, shedding, and separation anxiety issues can overwhelm unprepared owners. Do your research thoroughly before committing.
Cost of Ownership (AUD)
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a rare breed in Australia, which affects both availability and price. Expect to wait 12 to 24 months or more for a puppy from an Australian breeder, and potentially longer if importing from overseas.
Initial Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Puppy Purchase (ANKC registered) | $3,500–$6,000+ |
| Import Costs (if sourcing overseas) | $5,000–$12,000+ (includes transport, quarantine, paperwork) |
| Microchipping | $60–$80 |
| Vaccinations (initial course) | $170–$350 |
| Desexing (if required) | $300–$600 |
| Bed, Crate, Bowls & Lead | $250–$500 |
| Initial Vet Check | $80–$150 |
| Pet Insurance Setup | $40–$80/month |
| TOTAL (Aus-bred puppy) | $4,400–$7,760+ |
Annual Ongoing Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Premium Dog Food | $1,000–$1,800 |
| Vet Check-ups & Vaccinations | $300–$600 |
| Pet Insurance | $480–$960 |
| Flea, Tick & Worming | $200–$400 |
| Grooming (professional, optional) | $300–$600 |
| Treats, Toys & Enrichment | $200–$400 |
| Training / Dog Sports | $200–$600 |
| Dental Care | $100–$400 |
| TOTAL (Annual) | $2,780–$5,760 |
Finding an Icelandic Sheepdog in Australia
This is the hardest part. The Icelandic Sheepdog is one of the rarest breeds in Australia, with only a small number of ANKC-registered breeders — primarily based in Victoria and New South Wales. Litters are infrequent, typically just one to two per breeder per year. Expect a waiting list of 12 to 24 months as standard.
Your best starting points are Dogz Online (dogzonline.com.au) for current breeder listings, Dogs Victoria or Dogs NSW for registered breeders in those states, and the ANKC/Dogs Australia website for national breeder referrals. Some Australian owners have imported Icelandic Sheepdogs from European or Scandinavian breeders, which adds significant cost but opens up a wider gene pool.
There is no established Icelandic Sheepdog rescue network in Australia due to the breed’s rarity. Internationally, the National Icelandic Sheepdog Rescue Alliance (NISRA) operates in the United States, but Australian options are essentially non-existent. If you find one in need of rehoming, it will be through breed community word of mouth rather than formal rescue channels.
Lifetime Cost Estimate
Based on the figures above, the estimated lifetime cost of owning an Icelandic Sheepdog in Australia over a 13-year lifespan is approximately $40,500 to $82,600 AUD. This includes the initial purchase price, annual ongoing costs, and a reasonable buffer for unexpected veterinary expenses. If you are importing the dog, add $5,000 to $12,000 to the initial figure. These numbers are comparable to other medium-sized breeds, with the main cost driver being the initial purchase price and the difficulty of sourcing a puppy.
Importing an Icelandic Sheepdog to Australia
Given the breed’s rarity in Australia, some owners choose to import. This is a complex and expensive process. Australia has strict biosecurity requirements including mandatory quarantine periods. You will need to work with an experienced pet transport company, organise health certificates, vaccinations, microchipping, and customs documentation. The total import cost from Europe or North America typically runs $5,000 to $12,000 AUD or more depending on the country of origin. The process takes months of planning, so factor this into your timeline. Start by connecting with breeders through the Icelandic Sheepdog International Cooperation (ISIC) at icelanddog.org or the Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America at icelanddogs.com.
Is This Breed Right for You?
Want a devoted companion that will follow you everywhere and shower you with affection. Have an active lifestyle with time for daily walks, hikes, or dog sports. Can handle significant shedding and commit to regular grooming. Live in a cooler part of Australia (Victoria, Tasmania, ACT, or southern NSW). Are prepared for a vocal breed and can invest in bark management training from day one. Work from home or have a household where someone is home most of the day. Are patient enough to wait 12–24 months for a puppy from a reputable breeder.
Need a quiet dog — the barking is non-negotiable. Are away from home for long hours — separation anxiety is a genuine breed issue. Have dog allergies — this breed sheds heavily and is not hypoallergenic. Live in a hot climate without reliable air conditioning — the double coat makes heat a real concern. Want an off-leash dog — herding instinct makes them unreliable without a fence. Prefer a low-maintenance coat — year-round shedding plus biannual coat blow is a commitment.
| Breed | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| Shetland Sheepdog | Similar size, trainability, and herding instinct. Shelties tend to be more reserved with strangers while Icies are more universally social. Both breeds bark. |
| Finnish Lapphund | Slightly larger with more coat. Similar spitz-type look and friendly temperament. Lapphunds may have slightly lower energy levels. |
| Keeshond | Similar fluffy spitz appearance. Keeshonds come in one colour pattern while Icies offer more variety. Both are devoted family dogs. |
| Norwegian Buhund | Close genetic relative. Similar size and temperament. Buhunds may be slightly more independent. Both are vocal herding breeds. |
| Swedish Vallhund | Another Viking breed with shared ancestry. Vallhunds are lower to the ground (corgi-like body). Both are energetic herders with big personalities. |
- The Icelandic Sheepdog is 1,100 years of Viking heritage packed into a smiling, barking, shedding bundle of unconditional love.
- They are rare, vocal, and demanding of your time and attention — but they repay every moment with a loyalty and cheerfulness that is genuinely hard to find in any other breed.
- If you are patient enough to find one, prepared for the shedding, and can make peace with the barking, the Icelandic Sheepdog will give you the best 12–15 years of your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Icelandic Sheepdog cost in Australia?
Expect to pay $3,500 to $6,000+ AUD for an ANKC-registered Icelandic Sheepdog puppy from a reputable Australian breeder. Due to the breed’s rarity, waiting lists are typically 12–24 months. Importing from overseas can cost $5,000–$12,000+ including transport and quarantine.
Do Icelandic Sheepdogs shed a lot?
Yes. They shed moderately year-round and have two major “coat blow” seasons each year (spring and autumn) where they shed their entire undercoat over 2–4 weeks. Daily brushing during shedding season is essential. They are not hypoallergenic.
Are Icelandic Sheepdogs hypoallergenic?
No. Icelandic Sheepdogs are not hypoallergenic. They shed heavily, especially during seasonal coat blows, and are not suitable for people with dog allergies.
Do Icelandic Sheepdogs bark a lot?
Yes. Barking is a breed characteristic. They were bred to bark while herding livestock, and this trait remains strong. They bark to alert, communicate, and sometimes just for fun. Bark management training is essential, especially in apartments or close neighbourhoods.
Are Icelandic Sheepdogs good family dogs?
Excellent. They are gentle, patient, and affectionate with children and bond strongly with all family members. Their medium size makes them sturdy but not overwhelming. Supervision with very young children is always recommended.
How big do Icelandic Sheepdogs get?
Males ideally stand 46 cm (18 inches) at the shoulder and weigh 14–18 kg (30–40 lbs). Females ideally stand 42 cm (16.5 inches) and weigh 9–14 kg (20–30 lbs). They are a medium-small, sturdy spitz-type breed.
What is the lifespan of an Icelandic Sheepdog?
12–15 years, which is typical for a breed of their size. With good care, many live into their mid-teens.
What colours do Icelandic Sheepdogs come in?
Tan (cream to reddish-brown), chocolate brown, grey, and black. All colours must have white markings, typically on the face, chest, feet, and tail tip. The breed does not come in solid colours.
Can Icelandic Sheepdogs live in hot climates?
They can adapt but require careful management. Their thick double coat is designed for cold weather. In hot Australian climates, exercise must be limited to early morning/late evening, shade and water must always be available, and air conditioning is strongly recommended.
Are Icelandic Sheepdogs easy to train?
Yes, they are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable with positive reinforcement methods. They excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. Harsh corrections should be avoided as they are sensitive dogs.
What is the difference between long-haired and short-haired Icelandic Sheepdogs?
Both coat types are accepted. Long-haired varieties have longer guard hairs and a fuller ruff, tail, and breeches. Short-haired varieties have a denser, shorter coat. Both shed equally heavily. The coat type is determined by genetics and does not affect temperament.
1. PetMD – Icelandic Sheepdog Dog Breed Health and Care – https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/icelandic-sheepdog
2. American Kennel Club – Icelandic Sheepdog Breed Information – https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/icelandic-sheepdog/
3. WebMD – What to Know About an Icelandic Sheepdog – https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-icelandic-sheepdog
4. Wisdom Panel – Icelandic Sheepdog Facts – https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-us/dog-breeds/icelandic-sheepdog
5. Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America – Temperament – https://www.icelanddogs.com/temperament
6. Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America – AKC Breed Standard – https://www.icelanddogs.com/akc-breed-standard
7. Wikipedia – Icelandic Sheepdog – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Icelandic_Sheepdog
8. Dogz Online – Icelandic Sheepdog Breeders Australia – https://www.dogzonline.com.au/breeds/breeders/icelandic-sheepdog.asp
9. AKC – Icelandic Sheepdog History: Beloved Scandinavian Symbol – https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/icelandic-sheepdog-history-beloved-scandinavian-symbol/
10. Vetstreet – Icelandic Sheepdog Breed Information – https://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/icelandic-sheepdog