Our Icelandic Sheepdog

Rikki

Stokk-Sels Steinríkur CGC TKN
"Rikki"

S: IS CH Heiðarhofs Kolmar
SS: Keilis Frakkur
SD: Stefsstells Hátíð
D: Stokk-Sels Skíma
DS: IS CH Arnarstaða Askur
DD: Stokk-Sels Verðandi Snjódís

After sadly losing our first Icelandic Sheepdog, Loki, we spent years looking for just the right male Icelandic Sheepdog to add to our family. When we saw Rikki's photo, we instantly knew he was the one. He is a stunning boy in every way, but his handsome good looks are only outshined by his sweet temperament.

Rikki is an absolute joy to have around the farm. He is great with the horses and, of course, loves every guest who arrives. He is quick to learn and enjoys training. Unlike many Icelandic Sheepdogs, Rikki only barks when necessary and is generally a quiet, mellow guy who loves to snuggle more than anything else.

Rikki has successfully produced several litters. Several of his offspring are already champions in their own right, have passed important health tests, and are successfully competing in performance events. And, of course, many have the fabulous Rikki looks and temperament that make them ideal family dogs.

Rikki
What a face!

Rikki has passed several important health tests and is CHIC qualified. The results of his health testing can be found here: OFA / Embark. Rikki is available for breeding to approved Icelandic Sheepdog bitches. Please contact us for more information on Rikki.

To view more photos of Rikki, please visit his photo album.


The Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog is an ancient Nordic spitz breed and Iceland's native dog. The ancestors of today's Icelandic Sheepdogs came to Iceland with the early Viking settlers, traveling alongside the horses, sheep, and people who shaped the country. For centuries, these cheerful and hardy dogs helped Icelandic farmers manage livestock, especially sheep and horses, in a challenging landscape and climate.

Loki herding horses
Loki herding horses

Icelandic Sheepdogs are herding dogs at heart. They are alert, intelligent, energetic, and usually very interested in whatever their people are doing. Many are naturally vocal, especially when working, and use their voices as part of their herding style. They are quick learners and often enjoy obedience, agility, tricks, rally, scent work, and other activities that let them use their brains.

Above all, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a family companion. The breed is known for being friendly, happy, affectionate, and deeply connected to its people. Most Icelandic Sheepdogs are cheerful greeters and enjoy being part of daily life. They are usually good with children and other animals when properly raised and socialized, although their herding instincts may make them want to chase or organize movement.

The Icelandic Sheepdog coat comes in two varieties: short and long. Both are double coats and are designed to protect the dog from harsh weather. Icelandic Sheepdogs generally love cold weather, but they can also do well in warmer climates with common sense care. Their coats shed, especially seasonally, but regular brushing usually keeps grooming manageable.

This is a rare and special breed, but not a breed for everyone. Icelandic Sheepdogs are bright, social, and people-oriented, and they do best in homes where they receive attention, training, exercise, and a real place in the family. In the right home, they are wonderful companions: joyful, clever, affectionate, and full of personality.

For more information about the breed, please see the links page.

Rikki with Norðurvindur's Mæra, a Loki granddaughter owned by Andrea's mother
Rikki with Norðurvindur's Mæra, a Loki granddaughter owned by Andrea's mother