Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is described by the AKC as friendly, playful, inquisitive, a member of the Herding Group, originally from Iceland.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 18 inches (male), 16.5 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 30 pounds (male), 25 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Friendly / Playful / Inquisitive [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | Iceland [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 138 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Icelandic Sheepdogs enjoy outdoor activities and make great companions on long walks or hikes. Moderate exercise every day will help keep them healthy and happy. This can come in the form of walks and play sessions. [1]
Grooming
The Icelandic Sheepdog has a profuse double coat, with a longer outer coat and a dense undercoat. Icelandic Sheepdogs shed a fair amount, even more so during shedding season, which occurs twice a year. Weekly brushing'¿daily during shedding season'¿will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Icelandic Sheepdogs are generally very healthy dogs. They can be prone to a few health conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia and patellar luxation. Responsible breeders test their stock for conditions that can occur in the breed. An Icelandic's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Icelandic Sheepdog in 2010. [1]
- It ranked No. 138 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 140 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Icelandic, aka Iceland Dog (U.K.).” [1]
- The AKC lists Iceland as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Icelandic Sheepdogs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Icelandic Sheepdog get?
AKC breed information lists height 18 inches (male), 16.5 inches (female) and weight 30 pounds (male), 25 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Icelandic Sheepdog?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Icelandic Sheepdog, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.