A new museum honouring the Icelandic Sheepdog has opened in North Iceland. In the first month, hundreds of visitors have already visited and learned about this unique breed and its rich history.
Evelyn Ýr Kuhne opened the museum as she wanted to introduce the Icelandic Sheepdog to a wider audience. Evelyn’s fascination with the breed began in 2019 when she became the owner of an Icelandic Sheepdog. She realised how little information was available about the breed’s history and decided to take the matter into her own hands three years ago.
Among the materials at the museum are the oldest drawings of the Icelandic Sheepdog and copperplate engravings from 1755. Artwork and photographs are among other materials at the museum used to shed a light on these curious species.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is known for its sociable and cheerful nature, commonly appearing to be smiling. Barking is one of the breed’s main working tools.
One of the visitors observed: “I knew about the Icelandic horse, that’s why I came here, but I had no idea that there was an Icelandic dog.”
Original story by RÚV English.
Where Does the Icelandic Sheepdog Come From?
The Icelandic Sheepdog was originally brought to Iceland by the Vikings around settlement in 874 AD. The breed descends from dogs found in Scandinavia and has a resemblance to Norwegian Buhund as well as the Shetland Sheepdog. It also relates to the Finnish breed, Karelian Bear Dog.
The isolation of Iceland contributed to the development of distinct characteristics for the Icelandic Sheepdog, namely adapting to the harsh climate and developing its herding instincts, which were essential for the survival of local farmers. As the name suggests, the Icelandic Sheepdog was used for herding and protecting sheep.
What Characterizes the Icelandic Sheepdog?
The Icelandic Sheepdog is medium size and typically weighs between 20 to 35 pounds. It has a solid build and displays a thick double coat which protects it from the elements. It has a curled tail and pointy ears.
The breed is known for its friendliness and playfulness. They are vocal and known to bark at unfamiliar things (also spinning wheels of vehicles, other dogs and smaller and bigger animals) which makes them good watchdogs.
Icelandic Sheepdogs are active and require regular exercise. Daily walks and play sessions are an absolute must which makes them so suitable for countryside living, where they have the freedom to roam freely. They typically live for 12-15 years.
Below are two photos of our favorite Icelandic Sheepdog, Bali, in Icelandic nature. She is also a regular at the office.
