The phrase “a dog is a man’s best friend” has already become an aphorism. And for good reason. This expression emphasizes the faithful and devoted character of the four-legged pet. Today in the world there is a huge number of different breeds of dogs, in addition, breeders continue to breed more and more subspecies.
Of particular note is the breed of dog known as the Icelandic Shepherd. In today's article, we will consider all the features and characteristics of this breed, study the history of origin, and also get acquainted with the rules of maintenance and principles of caring for individual individuals.
Origin history
The history of the Icelandic dog is quite interesting for its unusual details. Initially, a shepherd of this breed appeared in Iceland (hence the name of the breed). Historians date this event in different ways, one thing is obvious - it happened in the 1st century AD between 874 and 930 years. At that time, this type of dog was the most common and popular.
Ancient people used dogs as guards and protectors (even despite the small size of the shepherd). The latter, in turn, met the expectations of their owners, served them faithfully. In this regard, shepherds and farmers were imbued with real love for Icelandic dogs, many perceived four-legged animals not only as helpers and friends, but also as full members of the family.
History is known for the worldwide spread of the plague virus. Icelandic shepherds were affected by this disease, the number of which decreased significantly in these years. However, there is no silver lining.
The wide spread of the disease caused individual individuals to be exported from Iceland, and in this way the breed spread throughout the globe. A few years later, active work began on the selection 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 internationally recognized and categorized as northern guard and herding animals.
However, even despite all this, a breed called the Icelandic Shepherd is considered quite small.
Breed characteristics
For the Icelandic Shepherd, as well as for the vast majority of other officially recognized dog breeds, international standards have been adopted that both newborn puppies and adults must meet.
So, first of all, it is important to note that Icelandic shepherd dogs have a fairly powerful and strong body. The chest is wide, and the back has a strong build. The tail does not have outstanding indicators, it is usually average in its length. The dog's limbs are especially powerful. They are quite straightforward in structure, but at the same time well developed. The entire body of a four-legged pet is proportional. The head, which is rather wide in its anatomical structure, is no exception.
Scientists classify the type of dog bite as scissors.
Of particular interest in terms of appearance is the wool of the Icelandic Shepherd. Generally speaking, an animal can be either short-haired or long-haired. One way or another, the hairline has a fairly high density and is resistant to water and moisture. Regardless of whether a single individual is long-haired or short-haired, the hair on its paws, ears, skull and face will be significantly shorter than the length of the hairline throughout the rest of the body. On the other hand, increased fluffiness is characterized by the tail of the dog.
As for the color of wool, it can be very diverse. So, the acceptable colors, according to international standards for the Icelandic Shepherd, are shades of white and beige, golden, brown, gray and black.
How to choose a puppy
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 reacted to your appearance. A healthy Icelander puppy is curious, sociable and not aggressive. His ponytail 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 a passport. The baby's age should be at least 2 months.
Nature and behavior
If you try to characterize the Icelandic Shepherd with just a few words, then in the first place it is worth mentioning such features as cheerfulness and peace. Animals show friendliness towards others (both people and other animals). They make good contact even with young children.
Icelandic shepherds can not stand long loneliness, because they like to constantly be in the company of their own owner.
Animals are able to show aggression only in response to malicious and aggressive behavior, or if they anticipate danger.
Maintenance and care
To begin with, it should be noted that scientists, veterinarians, as well as experienced breeders do not recommend keeping an individual belonging to this breed in an apartment. Such an environment is uncomfortable for the animal and can cause stress. Icelandic shepherds 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 a private house with its own lands or adjoining territory. The dog should have enough space to run and splash out its energy. The minimum time that your four-legged pet should spend on the street is 2 hours a day.
Iceland Shepherd Dog pronounced adaptive characteristics and can withstand virtually 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 direct sunlight and does not allow it to overheat. In addition, as mentioned above, the hairline of the Icelandic Shepherd Dog is able to repel moisture, so the dog is not afraid of rain.
However, animal hair has not only positive properties. The fact that the dog is prone to molting, so it must be combed regularly. The molting process is especially intensive in spring and autumn, so during these periods your pet needs increased attention in relation to care. Also, bathing activities can be attributed to nursing activities. However, do not abuse this procedure - wash the animal only as it becomes dirty and, if necessary. Separately, veterinarians note the need regular nail clipping.
Food
In general, it is noted that animals belonging to the Icelandic breed are not demanding in relation to the diet. However, even despite this, you should not neglect the planning of meals for your four-legged friend and feed him leftovers from the master's table. It should be remembered that one way or another, but the animal’s nutrition should be healthy 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 the nutrition of your pet, you can choose ready-made dry mixes and feeds that 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 ease the task of providing food for their pet.
However, if you have chosen this option, then before buying this or that food, you should consult with a specialist in advance and clarify whether he is specifically suitable for your pet. In addition, in this case, you will need to purchase various nutritional supplements and vitamins necessary for the body of the animal.
The second option is considered more budgetary, but it is time-consuming. So, you can feed the Icelandic Shepherd with natural products that you yourself eat. The diet of the dog should consist of cereals, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, as well as lean meat and fish. Remember that when choosing natural nutrition, you must prepare products for the dog separately. They must be fresh and of high quality. In no case should a pet be given expired, spoiled or stale products. Also, do not feed him leftovers from your table.
From time to time, to please your four-legged friend, you can purchase special treats for dogs that are sold in zoological stores. Do not forget to maintain water balance. Besides, It is important to systematically wash and clean bowls with water and animal food, as there is a risk of harmful organisms getting into them or developing infections.
The optimal number of meals per day is 2 times. Moreover, it is advisable to feed the dog after a walk, training or active games.
Parenting and training
It has been scientifically proven, as well as noted in practice, that the Icelandic shepherd breed lends itself well to training and training. In addition, these processes are a kind of game for animals, so they are very willing to obey the owner, performing and remembering all his commands and requirements.
Of course, training should begin with the basics, from the most basic teams. However, it is worth remembering that having rather high mental abilities the dog is able to learn more complex tricks, which, as usual, are not included in the generally recognized 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.
In addition, it is important to note that the training and education of Icelandic Shepherd Dogs is a physiological and intellectual necessity rather than a whim of the owner.
Thus, we were able to make sure that the Icelandic shepherd by its nature is a rather nontrivial animal, which has a number of original features and signs. If you follow all the necessary recommendations for care and clearly follow the instructions of specialists, then you can ensure a long and happy life for your pet. The average life span of an Icelandic shepherd is 15 years.
In the next video you will find more information about the Icelandic dog.
