In a milestone for dog lovers and breed enthusiasts, the Kennel Club has announced that it will officially recognize the Icelandic Sheepdog as a pedigree breed starting from April 1, 2025. This charming spitz-type herding dog, known for its friendly nature and hardworking spirit, boasts an ancient lineage dating back over 1,000 years – having been mentioned in the historic Icelandic Sagas and even getting a shout-out in Shakespeare’s Henry V.
From Saga Star to Shakespeare’s Stage
The Icelandic Sheepdog’s journey to pedigree status has been a long time coming. Referenced in Iceland’s treasured Sagas, which were written in the 13th century and recount events dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries, this hardy breed has played an important role in Icelandic farming life for generations.
Across the North Atlantic, the bard himself, William Shakespeare, name-dropped the “Iceland dog” in Act II of his play Henry V, penned around 1599:
“Pish for thee, Iceland dog, thou prick-ear’d cur of Iceland!”
– Ancient Pistol, Henry V, Act II
While the context may not be entirely flattering, the reference itself underscores the breed’s long history and far-reaching reputation.
Herding Heritage
As a traditional drover dog, the Icelandic Sheepdog excelled at herding livestock and serving as an all-purpose farm dog. Their responsibilities included guarding property, alerting owners, and even helping to manage Iceland’s unique horses.
The Kennel Club describes the breed as “most intelligent and exceptionally friendly,” highlighting their role as dependable working companions. Wendy Laker, an owner who advocated for the breed’s recognition, elaborated:
“As an owner, I would describe the breed as friendly, active and intelligent. They can certainly be vocal and bark to alert, this is because they were originally bred as herding dogs who would bark to keep animals in a flock, communicate with their owners and protect their flock’s young.”
– Wendy Laker, Icelandic Sheepdog owner
Recognition Requirements
To gain pedigree status, a breed must have several established generations, allowing the Kennel Club to confirm a predictable lineage with consistent characteristics such as temperament, health needs, exercise requirements, and grooming demands.
As of April 2025, the Icelandic Sheepdog will join the ranks of 224 pedigree breeds acknowledged by the Kennel Club. This follows the recognition of the Polish Hunting Dog in April 2024.
Breed Characteristics
So what defines the newly minted pedigree? Here’s a snapshot of key Icelandic Sheepdog traits:
- Height: 18 inches (male), 16.5 inches (female)
- Weight: 30 pounds (male), 25 pounds (female)
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Coat colors: various combinations of white with red, black, cream, gold, grey, sable, and tan
- Temperament: friendly, faithful, enthusiastically devoted herders
Laker emphasized the breed’s intelligence and trainability, but noted that their thick double coat requires regular grooming, and their energetic nature means they thrive with ample exercise and mental stimulation.
Pedigree Perks
With Kennel Club recognition, Icelandic Sheepdogs can now look forward to:
- Heightened breed awareness and interest from prospective owners
- Inclusion in prestigious dog shows (though not Crufts in the initial year)
- Wider access to pedigree-focused breeding programs and resources
- Greater visibility for breed-specific health research and initiatives
For a breed that has weathered the centuries with unwavering dedication and charm, this recognition feels long overdue. As Icelandic Sheepdogs step into the pedigree spotlight, their ancient roots, steadfast spirit, and endearing personality are sure to win over even more hearts worldwide.
“As an owner, I would describe the breed as friendly, active and intelligent. They can certainly be vocal and bark to alert, this is because they were originally bred as herding dogs who would bark to keep animals in a flock, communicate with their owners and protect their flock’s young.”
– Wendy Laker, Icelandic Sheepdog owner
Recognition Requirements
To gain pedigree status, a breed must have several established generations, allowing the Kennel Club to confirm a predictable lineage with consistent characteristics such as temperament, health needs, exercise requirements, and grooming demands.
As of April 2025, the Icelandic Sheepdog will join the ranks of 224 pedigree breeds acknowledged by the Kennel Club. This follows the recognition of the Polish Hunting Dog in April 2024.
Breed Characteristics
So what defines the newly minted pedigree? Here’s a snapshot of key Icelandic Sheepdog traits:
- Height: 18 inches (male), 16.5 inches (female)
- Weight: 30 pounds (male), 25 pounds (female)
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Coat colors: various combinations of white with red, black, cream, gold, grey, sable, and tan
- Temperament: friendly, faithful, enthusiastically devoted herders
Laker emphasized the breed’s intelligence and trainability, but noted that their thick double coat requires regular grooming, and their energetic nature means they thrive with ample exercise and mental stimulation.
Pedigree Perks
With Kennel Club recognition, Icelandic Sheepdogs can now look forward to:
- Heightened breed awareness and interest from prospective owners
- Inclusion in prestigious dog shows (though not Crufts in the initial year)
- Wider access to pedigree-focused breeding programs and resources
- Greater visibility for breed-specific health research and initiatives
For a breed that has weathered the centuries with unwavering dedication and charm, this recognition feels long overdue. As Icelandic Sheepdogs step into the pedigree spotlight, their ancient roots, steadfast spirit, and endearing personality are sure to win over even more hearts worldwide.
