The Icelandic sheepdogs are attractive, sweet, intelligent, and loyal. What a great dog, want one? Can’t think of your life without one? Well then, if you are thinking of adding an Icelandic dog to your family, spend a little time making sure it is the right breed for you.

Here are many common reasons for wanting one:

I saw one or a photo of one and it was the most beautiful dog I’d ever seen!

You are right they are a very beautiful breed, but don’t forget that this breed is a pure breed but has many dogs that do not look exactly the same. They have an ample color variety to choose from: Black, gray, chocolate and tonalities varying from yellow (from crème to reddish brown) with white always accompanying the predominant color. Then there is the coat, all will have double coating, they WILL go out of fur, which requires a REGULAR brushing. They come in these varieties of coat; short, medium and long. Each one has a different aspect and you could choose which fits you the best. Another thing to think about is did you see a female or a male?  There is a significant difference between the sexes when we speak of looks. Perhaps you wanted a female but your dream dog was a male. Be sure!

I want a do that is good with kids.

The truth is a well trained ISD is a fantastic companion for children, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t have to teach the child how to treat and behave around a dog. It also doesn’t mean that you don’t have to make sure that the puppy feels comfortable and safe around them. It’s too easy hurting a young dog and to make them shy or the children, if treated improperly. With this said I still have never heard of an ISD nor seen one that didn’t love kids.

I love that relaxed temperament!

Most of the ISD’s have a naturally relaxed nature, calm and silent inside the house. Some BARK more than others, but with consistent constant training you will have a dog that you can live with for many years. I have heard some breeders say they can distinguish a pup that will be a talker or not, ask your breeder. Be honest about what you seek. If you are in a city perhaps the better choice would be a female who is naturally silent rather than an active and dominant male. If you live on a farm or want a good alarm dog, you could ask for one that is more of a talker

I love that soft fur coat.

You are right – A well groomed ISD is the cuddliest dog you can find- but the ISD needs to be groomed to be like that. Maintaining an adult ISD brushed will take a few hours a month. It must be done every month without fail. The good news is that the ISD´d don’t need baths to smell better or good. They are an arctic breed, which means they maintain themselves clean and if you brush regularly for the oils move along the hairs then you will have a pretty gorgeous dog. Do not forget the two changes a year that dogs go through, spring and autumn. Basically the under coat will fall like snow flakes, think about it?

They are pretty expensive, but if I save money, I could buy one…

Buying is only the beginning. Vaccinations, routine vet check ups, food, leashes, collars, brushes, and perhaps a training school, fencing, bedding will also be a cost especially in the first year. Are you sure that you can support the cost of all of this and the initial cost, before making a commitment for the next 15 years.

 

I like that they are so loyal. I always wanted a dog that adored me more that anything in the world.

The ISD´s are very loyal dogs, and will adore you more than anything, but they will also ask to be petted by strangers and willingly go for a walk around with the kids on the block. They are great family dogs and even if they have that one special person in their life, they will love being with everyone. If you want a dog that is a “one person dog” this breed is not for you.

I am pretty active I love long walks camping and keep in shape by running every day

ISD´s are good little working dogs and were bred for resistance, but they have to grow – any extra stress on the growing bones can be a strong indication for HD (hip displasia). Not forgetting that they shouldn’t have forced walks or runs while their bones are growing, and they shouldn’t be jumping until they reach two years of age. If your puppy was born of parents both free of HD, and you let him grow calmly, feeding the correct food and of quality which will maintain him in elegant form, it is well possible that you will have a good companion for the next 10 to 15 years. Just let him grow up!