Icelandic sheepdogs are outgoing, friendly, loving, and loyal! They enjoy being with you wherever you go and love having a "job" to do, whether it's some casual tricks, fetch, or agility. Because of this desire to be with you, they can be prone to undesirable behaviors when left alone, like excessive barking. This breed likes to bark - a lot! They particularly like to bark at birds as they are one of the only natural predators in their home country of Iceland. This bird hatred may extend to airplanes and any other airborne objects. Icelandics shed twice a year, but are fairly low-shedding the rest of the year, and do not have the typical doggy odor that is present in a lot of breeds. Though they are active dogs, they have a great "off switch" and will be relaxed if you are.
If you are considering adding an Icelandic Sheepdog to your home, be prepared for an intelligent, quirky companion who desires to be with you (always!) and who may throw a bit of a tantrum if they aren't able to be. A dog who announces every visitor - and maybe even every airplane - they see. A dog that will nap with you for hours but jump up in a moment if you pick up a tennis ball. A sensitive, loving, active dog that you will cherish, and who will cherish you.