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Basic Description: The Icelandic Sheepdog is a Nordic herding spitz, slightly under medium size with the pointed muzzle, erect triangular ears, dense coat and curled tail typical of the Northern breeds. This is essentially a herding dog that evolved over many centuries in the harsh Icelandic climate. The coat should be very weather-resistant and of good quality. It is thicker and longer around the neck, forepart of the shoulders and chest, forming a lion-like ruff which is more profuse in the male than the female. The rump and hind legs down to the hocks are also covered with thicker, longer hair forming the characteristic breeches or trousers. The double coat consists of a short dense undercoat, with longer guard hairs growing through it forming the outer coat, which may be of either medium or long length. It may be straight or moderately wavy. Seen from the side the dog is rectangular, fox like in appearance, the length is in proportion to height and in harmony with general appearance. Lips should be slightly curved up at the corners of the mouth giving the characteristic smile. There should be a strong neck and back, straight front legs and especially strong loins. The normally angled shoulder and upper-arm should match the rear angulation. The chest is deep with well-sprung ribs. Hindquarters should be particularly well developed, stifles well bent. The plumed tail may be tightly or loosely curled and may be carried upright over the back or rest flat on it. A loving companion dog the expression is gentle, intelligent and happy. A confident and lively bearing is typical for this dog whose alert carriage presents a picture of strength, agility, dignity, beauty and grace which are all evident in the eyes, ears and tail. There is a marked difference in appearance between the sexes. Males are larger and masculine without coarseness or aggressiveness. Females are feminine without over-refinement, or softness of temperament. Both are compactly built, balanced with good substance, and have a smooth gait.
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Note: Any Club that wishes to provide a better quality description of this breed is invited to contact the web master. Your assistance in making this a useful site is greatly appreciated. Also, if corrections or additions are found, please let me know at once.
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American Kennel Club Link
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Canadian Kennel Club Link
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National Rescue Group Link(s)
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Local Club contacts below if listed here
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Additional Information on local Clubs (Obedience, Agility etc.) and Rescue groups can be found under their respective heading in the Content section.
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Breed Fanciers that have agreed to share their knowledge of this breed.
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Would you like to be listed here – go to Invitation and if you agree with the simple requirements – WE WANT YOU – then go to Fancier Questionnaire and fill out the form. The form is sent directly to the webmaster.
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