Do Icelandic Sheepdogs Shed A Lot? | Grooming Guide

If you're considering welcoming an Icelandic Sheepdog into your family, you might be wondering about their shedding habits. Icelandic Sheepdogs have a moderate shedding level due to their thick, double coat, which is designed to protect them from harsh Icelandic weather. Their coat can be either short or long, with a dense undercoat and a weather-resistant outer layer.

This breed sheds year-round but experiences a more noticeable increase during seasonal changes, especially in spring and fall. Managing their shedding involves regular grooming routines that help keep their coat healthy and reduce loose hair around your home.

Understanding the Icelandic Sheepdog’s Shedding Patterns

Icelandic Sheepdogs have a double coat, consisting of a soft undercoat and a coarser outer coat. This combination provides insulation and protection but also means they naturally shed to adjust to temperature changes.

They shed moderately throughout the year, but the most intense shedding occurs during the spring and fall seasons, when they blow their coat to prepare for warmer or colder weather. This seasonal shedding can produce quite a bit of loose hair.

Their coat colors vary widely, including shades of tan, reddish-brown, chocolate, gray, and black, often accented with white markings. The variety in coat length means some dogs may shed slightly more visibly than others.

Practical Advice for Icelandic Sheepdog Owners

To keep shedding manageable, regular grooming is essential. Their double coat requires brushing about 2-3 times per week to remove loose hair and prevent matting. During heavy shedding seasons, daily brushing is recommended.

Here are some grooming tips:

• Use a slicker brush to gently lift loose undercoat hair.
• A de-shedding tool like the Furminator helps reach the dense undercoat effectively.
• Regular grooming sessions also stimulate healthy skin and distribute natural oils.

Additionally, frequent vacuuming and lint rolling around the house will help keep your living space free from dog hair.

Training and Management Strategies for Shedding

Managing your Icelandic Sheepdog's shedding can be easier with these simple steps:

1. Establish a grooming routine early. Start brushing your dog regularly as a positive experience.
2. Choose the right tools. Slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, and de-shedding tools are ideal.
3. Schedule extra grooming during seasonal blows. Increase brushing frequency in spring and fall.
4. Maintain a healthy diet. A balanced diet supports coat health and can reduce excessive shedding.
5. Regular vet check-ups. Shedding can sometimes be a sign of health issues, so ensure your dog is healthy.

Common Shedding Scenarios and Solutions

• Heavy shedding in spring/fall: Increase brushing sessions and consider professional grooming.
• Matting due to long coat: Detangle with a slicker brush and trim if necessary.
• Hair on furniture and clothes: Use lint rollers and washable furniture covers.
• Allergies triggered by shedding: Keep your home well-ventilated and clean regularly.

Conclusion

Icelandic Sheepdogs shed moderately year-round with seasonal increases during spring and fall. Their double coat requires consistent grooming—ideally brushing 2-3 times weekly—to manage loose hair and maintain coat health. With the right tools and routine, shedding can be controlled effectively, keeping both your dog and home comfortable.

Embracing their natural coat needs will help you enjoy the company of this charming and hardy breed without being overwhelmed by shedding.