Icelandic dog
| Icelandic dog (Íslenskur fjárhundur) |
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| FCI Standard No. 289 | ||
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| Origin : | ||
| Alternative names: |
Icelandic Spitz, Icelandic Shepherd Dog |
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| Withers height: |
Males: ideally 46 cm. |
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| List of domestic dogs | ||
The Icelandic dog is an FCI recognized dog breed from Iceland ( FCI Group 5, Section 3, Standard No. 289 ). Since 2010 the breed has also been recognized by the AKC .
Origin and history
The Icelandic dog came to Iceland with the Vikings , first mentions date back to 880. The first standard was set in 1898, but due to lack of interest it did not prevail. In 1972 it was renewed. The Icelandic name is "Íslenskur fjárhundur" (without article) or "Íslenski fjárhundurinn" with article. The term “Islenskur fjárhundur” currently used by the FCI is incorrect.
description
The Icelandic dog is the only dog breed with Iceland as its country of origin. It grows up to 46 cm. All colors are allowed, but one should predominate. Two types of fur are bred:
- Short-haired: medium-length, rather coarse outer coat with a thick, soft undercoat
- Long-haired: The top hair is longer than the short-haired variant, rather coarse, with a thick, soft undercoat.
The ears are erect, of medium size; triangular with stiff edges and slightly rounded tips. The tail is set high and curled over the back, touching it.
Essence
As with all herding dogs, sufficient physical and mental exercise is important so that the Icelandic dog can be a balanced family dog. Icelandic dogs usually show little hunting behavior, but the breed is known for its ability to bark.
Since the Icelandic dog, in its role as a herding dog, did not have to drive away any wild animals that were dangerous for the herd, care was taken during breeding to ensure that aggressive behavior was bred out of the breed. Especially because the dog was often the only playmate for the children on the widely scattered farms in Iceland, the breed should have an agreeable and sociable nature. This also distinguishes today's Icelandic dog.
Web links
- Breed standard No. 289 of the FCI: Icelandic dog (Íslenskur Fjárhundur) (PDF)
- German Club for Nordic Dogs
- Link catalog about Icelandic dogs at curlie.org (formerly DMOZ )