Group 5 · Spitz & primitive types
Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a medium-sized spitz with a curled tail, the only native dog breed of Iceland, where it herded sheep and horses. It is cheerful, sociable and playful, and loves people.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Ijslandse hond by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
The breeding programme sets no mandatory examinations for this breed.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Ijslandse hond, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 28/07/2025.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, no mandatory tests need to be carried out. A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. An Icelandic Sheepdog needs varied daily walks and play, and enjoys herding or dog sports. Its double coat needs a weekly brush and a daily one when moulting.
Questions for the breeder
- Which recommended examinations in the breeding programme have both parent dogs undergone, and may I see the results?
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
The Icelandic Sheepdog is cheerful and sociable and wants to be involved in everything. It likes to bark, which consistent training keeps in check. It does not like being left alone for long.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
