The Icelandic sheepdog, an ancient breed featured in the Icelandic Sagas and even mentioned by Shakespeare, will officially be recognized as a pedigree by the Kennel Club starting 1 April 2025.
This historic dog breed, believed to be over 1,000 years old, will join the pastoral group on the Kennel Club’s imported breed register, marking a significant milestone for its long history. In Shakespeare’s Henry V, the breed is referenced by the character Ancient Pistol, who calls it an “Iceland dog,” with a characteristic sharp description: “Pish for thee, Iceland dog, thou prick-ear’d cur of Iceland.”
The breed’s roots stretch deep into Icelandic tradition, with the Kennel Club noting its role in the country’s sagas and its long-standing use as a herding dog. Icelandic sheepdogs have historically served as versatile drovers, farm protectors, and alert dogs, and have also been employed to round up Icelandic horses. The Kennel Club describes them as “exceptionally friendly” and “most intelligent,” with a spitz-like appearance that adds to their appeal.
By the time the breed is fully recognized, the Kennel Club will acknowledge 224 pedigree dog breeds. The Icelandic sheepdog’s recognition will follow the recent approval of the Polish hunting dog in 2024. However, despite this acknowledgment, Icelandic sheepdogs will not yet be eligible to compete at Kennel Club-licensed breed shows until 2025.
The Kennel Club’s recognition is contingent on several generations of the breed being firmly established, ensuring consistent traits such as temperament, health, and grooming needs.
Wendy Laker, an advocate for the breed’s recognition and owner of a three-year-old Icelandic sheepdog named Stormur, described the dog as “friendly, active, and intelligent,” with a strong herding instinct. She noted that their vocal nature stems from their original purpose as herding dogs, using barks to manage livestock and communicate with their owners.
“They are easy to train and make great pets for the right owners who understand their needs,” Laker added, emphasizing that their spitz-like coat requires regular grooming and attention.
Key Facts about the Icelandic Sheepdog:
- Height: 18in (male), 16.5in (female)
- Weight: 30lb (male), 25lb (female)
- Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
- Colours: Various combinations of white, red, black, tan, and cream
- Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and dedicated, this spitz-type breed is known for its devotion to human companions and herding prowess.
With the official pedigree recognition, the Icelandic sheepdog is poised to take its rightful place in the world of prestigious breeds, continuing its long legacy as one of Iceland’s most cherished canine companions.
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