THE ICELANDIC SHEEPDOG
GUNNAR “VALI” - Soulmate Salmon, Kodiak Alaska
Icelandic Sheepdogs are a Nordic Spitz. They were brought to Iceland by the Vikings in 874 AD. Icelandic Sheepdogs are a natural treasure to Iceland.
They are a herding dog that is intelligent, cheerful, friendly, unafraid, and playful. They are a child's dream dog.
Runestone Thora 'Piper'
An Unknown Special Breed
Icelandic Sheepdogs are so unknown, it wasn't until 2010 that the AKC finally recognized this wonderful 1200 year old breed. There are written references to Icelandic Sheepdogs in 900AD. They were exported to England, and other European nations, upper classes and royalty. They were considered a favorite family pet.
Runestone Thora "Piper"
Iceland's Only Native Breed.
By 1960 as few as 35 Icelandic Sheepdogs remained on the planet. A lack of interest and distemper epidemics in Iceland nearly lead to this ancient breed's extinction. An Englishman, Sir Mark Watson loved Iceland and the breed. He moved to California to revive the breed. His efforts were not as successful as he had hoped, but with the help of a local Icelandic breeder, the Icie was saved. Although the Icelandic Sheepdog continues to be an unknown breed, they are not endangered anymore.
Runestone Thora 'Piper', Runestone Gryla fra Arnleifur and Runestone Elska
A Very Visual Dog.
In Iceland, the main predator to herds of sheep grazing the grass lands and crossing glaciers, is the white tailed eagle. Icelandic Sheepdogs learned to look skyward, ready to defend against attacks from above. To this day your Icie will defend your property from birds, aircraft, and your neighbors drone.
“ISAA - Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America”