The icelandic shepherd is the only known breed of Icelandic origin, known for its pointed ears and curly tail, a hardy, robust, and intelligent breed that developed to graze in the Icelandic mountains.
< h3 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" > variety overview</h3>
The main function of the Icelandic Shepherd is herding, the adult dog height is 42 cm to 45 cm, the weight is 22 to 27 pounds, the hair is a waterproof double layer of thick fur, there are short hair breeds, there are also long hair breeds. There are also many colors: cream, chocolate, black and gray. Even though the colors are different, all Icelandic Shepherds have white markings on their bodies. Their life expectancy is between 12 and 14 years.
<h3 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" > characteristics of Icelandic Shepherds</h3>
They are very friendly to humans, and they are very harmonious with children, although there will be some resistance to other pets at first, but I believe that after proper training and guidance, they can also get along well under the same roof. Given that they are almost grazing, the demand for exercise is not small, and if the owner does not take them for a walk, they will be very naughty at home. Thanks to their very high intelligence, it is also very simple to train. For such a vibrant dog, it is actually not recommended for novice owners to breed, nor is it suitable for breeding in apartments.
<h3 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" > the history of Icelandic Shepherds</h3>
Native to Iceland, the Icelandic Shepherd is the only breed that originated in Iceland, and this rare dog is one of the oldest breeds in the world. It is said that icelandic shepherds came to Iceland with the Vikings and settled there at the end of the 9th century.
Honed over the centuries, these dogs adapted to the harsh terrain and the needs of Icelandic farmers and shepherds. Icelandic Shepherds usually protect flocks of sheep and cattle on Iceland's rugged terrain. They are also good companions for their owners and loved ones when they are not working in the field. As local agricultural demand declined in the 20th century, Icelandic Shepherds were also endangered.
<h3 class= "pgc-h-arrow-right" > the care of Icelandic Shepherds</h3>
The fur of the Icelandic Shepherd is short and long, with an outer layer and an inner layer in both lengths. Although they have thick double coats, they do not require frequent care. Just comb once or twice a week to remove loose fur. Icelandic Shepherds undergo hair removal twice a year, and during periods when their fur is naturally shed, it is recommended to brush their teeth frequently so that their mouths are not affected by falling hairs. This breed does not require frequent bathing, as long as you brush your teeth regularly, and the cleanliness of other parts is easy to maintain. Like other dog breeds, nails should be trimmed every three to four weeks as needed.
The Icelandic Shepherd is a sporty, lively, intelligent animal that is energetic. Daily exercise is very important. Breeds used for grazing usually share a common trait, and they all require a combination of mental and physical exercise to make them truly happy. In order to maintain the physical and mental health of these dogs, owners need to accompany them throughout their lives on many projects, including playing with educational toys, agility training, smell training, long-distance exploratory walks, running, etc. Icelandic Shepherds are people-oriented and are therefore able to engage in positive social interactions with humans. Without proper physical and mental exercise, Icelandic Shepherds can become extremely destructive and have some behavioral problems.
<h3 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" > common health problems</h3>
No genetic or common health problems directly associated with this variety have been identified. However, Icelandic Shepherds are also prone to health problems such as hip dysplasia, patellar dislocation, and cataracts.
<h3 class= "pgc-h-arrow-right" > diet</h3>
The diet of Icelandic Shepherds should correspond to their age and level of exercise. In everyday life, be sure to make sure they have clean fresh water to drink.
Before you decide to have an Icelandic Shepherd, be sure to assess your own conditions, although they are very smart, but not suitable for every owner