Icelandic Sheepdog: Lifestyle and Habits Unveiled

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a mediumsized breed known for its spirited and lively nature, intelligence, gentleness, and amiability, making it one of the most popular dog breeds. It is also one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with a history marked by immense hardship. Let's delve deeper into the fascinating world of the Icelandic Sheepdog.

Part 1: The Lifestyle of the Icelandic Sheepdog

1. The Icelandic Sheepdog is a robust mediumsized dog with a gentle and friendly demeanor, making it an excellent guardian. However, they can be stubborn, requiring strict training and discipline from their owners to ensure they are wellbehaved companions.

2. These dogs are highly adaptable to various environments, thriving in harsh climates. They are diligent workers with sharp minds, making them exceptional sheepdogs. Their keen sense of smell aids in locating lost livestock, and their unique barking can drive away unwanted animals. While their herding skills are still present, the modern Icelandic Sheepdog is more commonly kept as a beloved family pet, with their hunting abilities having diminished over time.

3. Intelligent and brave by nature, the Icelandic Sheepdog is nonaggressive and leaves a lasting impression of friendliness. They are affectionate and enjoy being around people, particularly children, making them a loyal and cherished companion.

4. Loyal and compliant to their owners, the Icelandic Sheepdog is prone to barking and can be somewhat headstrong, which may not be ideal for urban living. They are better suited to rural or suburban settings.

Part 2: Key Points for Choosing an Icelandic Sheepdog

1. Purchase through reputable channels. When acquiring an Icelandic Sheepdog, it's best to buy from a recognized dog breeding center. Ensure to ask for accurate health checks, lineage, and other vital information from the seller, verifying that these details are genuine and reliable. This information is crucial in assessing the dog's health and quality.

2. Inspect the dog's body. A healthy Icelandic Sheepdog should appear strong, vigorous, and wellproportioned without any health issues. Standard measurements for adult male Icelandic Sheepdogs are 16.5 to 18.9 inches in height and 11 to 14 pounds, while adult females are 15.0 to 17.3 inches tall and weigh 9 to 11 pounds. Their eyes, ears, and nose should be clean and free of abnormalities.

3. Observe the dog's behavior and temperament. Typically, Icelandic Sheepdogs are curious, brave, and intelligent, forming deep and loyal bonds with people. They enjoy interaction and should not exhibit signs of laziness, lack of movement, or aggression. Engage with the dog during your visit to gauge its behavior and personality.

4. Consider the price. The market price for an Icelandic Sheepdog is approximately 3000 yuan, with actual prices varying slightly based on the dog's appearance, lineage, and condition. However, a healthy and wellkept Icelandic Sheepdog should not be sold for less than 3000 yuan. If the price is significantly lower, be cautious as it may indicate underlying health issues.

We hope this overview of the Icelandic Sheepdog's lifestyle and selection tips provides you with valuable insights.