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Icelandic Sheepdog is the only original species of dogs native to Iceland. They belong to the group of Nordic herding Spitz. They have originated from the breed of dogs brought in Iceland by the Viking settlers who came in the 9th century.
The sheepdog of Iceland has an average height of 12 to 16 inches and weigh about 20 to 30pounds. They have brown eyes, strong muzzle, prick ears and a curled tail. They can be of various colors like white, black, brown, tan, and so on. The coat of the Icelandic sheepdog is extremely thick so that it can stay protected from the harsh cold.
The sheepdogs in Iceland are friendly in nature, not only to men but to other animals as well. They can work very hard. However it is not the strength but the determination of these dogs that makes them special. Their keen sense of smell makes them efficient watchdogs and they are extremely helpful for herding sheep and driving horses, and also finding lost sheep. The hunting instincts of the Icelandic sheepdog are not very good.
The sheepdogs in Iceland are friendly in nature, not only to men but to other animals as well. They are active,agile and alert but not aggressive. They start barking as a sign of warning, specially when birds of prey are around.
The sheepdog in Iceland were on the brink of extinction because of natural as well as man-made slaughter, but through the active endeavor of all their number has increased in recent times.
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