Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Families with kids
- Cold climates
- Active owners
Watch out for
- Barks a lot
- Heavy shedding
- Doesn't like being alone
Daily care
Exercise: About an hour a day.
Grooming: Brush weekly; more when shedding.
Cold weather: Made for cold climates.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Icelandic Sheepdog
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- FoodSmall breed dog food
Formulas made for small breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate30-inch dog crate
A 30" crate fits most adult Icelandic Sheepdogs (up to about 30 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysDurable chew and fetch toys
Icelandic Sheepdogs have a lot of energy; tough rubber toys and balls hold up to hard play.
See options on Amazon - GroomingDeshedding brush
Icelandic Sheepdogs shed a lot; an undercoat rake or deshedding tool cuts down on loose hair.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Icelandic Sheepdog near you
We're building a list of trusted Icelandic Sheepdog rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Icelandic Sheepdog page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Icelandic Sheepdog rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Icelandic Sheepdog is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
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