Icelandic dog: description and content

The phrase “a dog is a man’s best friend” has already become aphorism. And not without reason. This expression emphasizes the faithful and devoted nature of the four-legged pet. Today in the world there is a huge number of different breeds of dogs, besides breeders continue to deduce more and more new subspecies.

Particularly noteworthy is the breed of dogs known as the Icelandic Sheepdog. In today's article we will look at all the features and characteristics of this breed, study the history of origin, and also get acquainted with the rules of the content and principles of care for individual individuals.

The history of the Icelandic dog is quite interesting for its unusual details. Initially, the sheepdog of this breed appeared in Iceland (hence the name of the breed). This event historians date in different ways, obviously one thing - it happened in the I century AD in the period between 874 and 930 years. At that time, this type of dog was the most common and popular.

The ancients used dogs as guards and protectors (even though the shepherd dogs were small). The latter, in turn, met the expectations of their owners, served them faithfully and faithfully. In this regard, the shepherds and farmers were filled with real love for Icelandic dogs, many perceived four-legged animals not only as helpers and friends, but also as full-fledged family members.

Stories known period of the spread of the worldwide plague virus. Icelandic shepherd dogs were affected by this disease, their livestock decreased significantly in the years indicated. However, every cloud has a silver lining.

The wide spread of the disease was the reason that some individuals were removed from Iceland, and in this way the breed spread throughout the globe. A few years later, active work began on the breeding and breeding of dogs of this breed, and in 1969 the Icelandic Shepherd Dogs were recognized as part of the cultural heritage of Iceland. A little later, the breed was recognized internationally and assigned to the category of northern watchdogs and herding animals.

With regard to the Icelandic Shepherd, as with the absolute majority of other officially recognized dog breeds, international standards have been adopted, which must be met by both newborn puppies and adults.

So, first of all it is important to note that Icelandic shepherds have a rather powerful and strong body. The chest is wide, and the back has a strong build. The tail has no outstanding indicators, it is usually average in its length. A special force is distinguished by the limbs of a dog. They are fairly straightforward in their structure, but at the same time well developed. The whole body of a four-legged pet is proportional. The head, which is rather wide in its anatomical structure, is no exception.

Of particular interest in terms of appearance is the wool of the Icelandic Shepherd. Generally speaking, An animal can be both shorthair and longhaired. Anyway, the hairline has a sufficiently high density and is resistant to water and moisture.Regardless of whether the individual is a long-haired or short-haired individual, the hair on the paws, ears, skull and muzzle will be much shorter compared to the length of hair over the rest of the body. On the other hand, Increased fluffiness differs dog's tail.

As for the coat color, it can be very diverse. So, permissible colors, according to international standards for Icelandic shepherd, are shades of white and beige, golden, brown, gray and black.

If you decide to have a purebred Icelandic dog, contact the kennel. Since the breed is small, there are not so many representatives on the territory of Russia. Most often, puppies are brought from Sweden and Denmark.

When choosing a baby, first of all, pay attention to how he responded to your appearance. A healthy Icelandic puppy is curious, sociable and non-aggressive.. His tail should be raised above his back, like a flag. In addition, do not forget that a conscientious breeder will never sell a puppy without vaccinations and veterinary passports. The baby must be at least 2 months old.

If you try to characterize the Icelandic Shepherd with just a few words, then first of all it is worth mentioning such features as cheerfulness and peace-loving. Animals are friendly towards others (both people and other animals). They are good to contact even with small children.

Icelandic shepherds do not tolerate prolonged loneliness, because they love to be constantly in the company of their own owner.

To begin with, it should be noted that scientists, veterinarians, and experienced breeders do not recommend keeping an individual belonging to this breed in an apartment setting. Such an environment is uncomfortable for the animal and can cause stress. Iceland shepherd dogs are completely unsuitable for the urban environment.

It is in connection with such features of the animal. it is recommended to keep it only in the conditions of a private house with its own land or a local area. The dog must have enough space to run and throw out its energy. The minimum allowable time that your four-legged pet should spend on the street is 2 hours a day.

Iceland shepherd possess pronounced adaptive characteristics and can endure with almost any weather conditions. So, as for the northern regions, which are characterized by frosts, the animal is saved from low temperatures due to its thick coat, which helps to keep warm. In arid and hot climatic conditions, the dog's coat protects the animal from exposure to direct sunlight and prevents it from overheating. In addition, as mentioned above, the Icelandic Shepherd's hair is able to repel moisture, so the dog is not afraid of precipitation.

However, the animal's coat has not only positive properties. Should take into account the fact that the dog is prone to moult, so it must be regularly combed. The molting process is especially intensive in spring and autumn, so during these periods your pet needs increased attention with regard to care. Bathing activities can also be considered as an event. However, do not abuse this procedure - wash the animal only when it is dirty and when necessary.. Separately, veterinarians note the need regular claw clipping.

In general, it is noted that animals belonging to the Icelandic breed are not demanding in relation to the diet. However, even in spite of this, it is impossible to neglect the planning of meals by your four-legged friend and feed him with leftovers from the master's table.It should be remembered that anyway, but the nutrition of the animal must be beneficial and balanced. Try to saturate it with the maximum possible number of useful components that will ensure the active growth and development of the animal.

As a basis for feeding your pet, you can choose ready-made dry mixes and feed, which are sold in pet stores and in zoological markets. This option may seem more convenient and comfortable for those who do not like to cook and want to maximally facilitate their task in terms of providing their pet with food.

However, if you choose this option, before buying this or that feed, should consult with a specialist in advance and clarify whether it is suitable specifically for your pet. In addition, in this case, you will need to purchase various nutritional supplements and vitamins that are necessary for the animal's body.

The second option is considered more budget, but it is time-consuming. So, you can feed the Icelandic Shepherd with natural products that you eat. The diet of the dog should consist of cereals, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, as well as lean meat and fish. Remember that choosing natural food, you must prepare products for the dog separately. They must be fresh and of high quality. In no case pet should not be given expired, spoiled or stale products. You should also not feed it with leftovers from your table.

From time to time, to please your four-legged friend, you can purchase special treats for the dog, which are sold in zoological shops. Do not forget also to observe the water balance. Besides, It is important to systematically wash and clean the bowls with water and food of the animal, as there is a risk of harmful organisms or the development of infections.

It has been scientifically proven, as well as noted in practice, that the Icelandic Sheepdog breed is excellently trained and trained. In addition, these processes are a kind of game for animals, so they eagerly obey the owner, fulfilling and remembering all his commands and requirements.

Of course, learning should start from the very beginning, from the most basic commands. However, it is worth remembering that possessing fairly high mental abilities the dog is able to learn more complex tricks that, as usual, are not included in the generally accepted program. In this sense, the anatomical structure of the dog plays a positive role, which allows it to easily overcome obstacles or demonstrate dexterity and grace.

Thus, we were able to make sure that the Icelandic shepherd is by its nature a rather non-trivial animal that possesses a number of original features and characteristics. If you adhere to all the necessary recommendations for care and strictly follow the instructions of specialists, then you will be able to ensure a long and happy life for your pet. The average life expectancy of Icelandic shepherd dogs is 15 years.

In the next video you will find more information about an Icelandic dog.