Caring for your Icelandic Sheepdog coat and skin

Quick answer

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a robust and active breed that requires consistent grooming to maintain healthy skin and a dense coat. While they are generally hardy, owners should prioritize regular brushing, thorough drying after baths, and routine checks of the skin and ears to catch potential issues before they become serious. Maintaining a consistent grooming schedule and monitoring your dog's overall body condition will help keep them comfortable and healthy throughout their life.

Understanding your dog's coat

The Icelandic Sheepdog possesses a thick, protective double coat designed to withstand harsh weather. Because this coat is so dense, it can easily hide skin issues from view. You must look beneath the surface to ensure the skin remains healthy. Owners should match their brushing frequency to the density of the coat, which may change with the seasons as the dog sheds. Use a sturdy brush that reaches down to the skin to remove loose undercoat, which prevents matting and allows air to circulate against the skin surface.

Skin and coat maintenance

Beyond brushing, you should perform a full-body check on a regular basis. During these sessions, lift the coat to inspect the skin for any signs of irritation, flaking, or unusual odors. Pay close attention to areas where the coat might be thinner or where skin folds may exist, as these are common spots for moisture and debris to accumulate. If you notice persistent scratching or redness, this is a recognised tendency in the breed that warrants a closer look by your veterinarian. The vet will likely perform a skin scraping or cytology to determine if there is an underlying infection or allergy that requires treatment.

Ear health and hygiene

Because of the shape and set of their ears, Icelandic Sheepdogs can sometimes experience issues with moisture or debris buildup. You should make it a habit to look into the ears during your weekly grooming session. Healthy ears should be clean and have no strong odor. If you notice your dog shaking their head frequently or scratching at their ears, this is a recognised tendency in the breed. A veterinarian will use an otoscope to look deep into the ear canal to check for inflammation or infection. It is important not to use cotton swabs inside the ear canal, as this can push debris deeper and cause damage.

Managing environmental factors

Your dog's skin health is closely linked to their environment. Because they are active and inquisitive, they may encounter various allergens or irritants outdoors. Keep an exercise log to track where your dog has been and how they react to different weather conditions. If you notice that your dog's skin becomes itchy or inflamed after being in tall grass or specific areas, this is a recognised tendency in the breed. How this passes down is not settled, but managing their exposure can significantly improve their comfort. Always rinse your dog's paws and belly if they have been playing in areas that might harbor pollen or environmental irritants.

Monitoring body condition

While not directly a skin condition, maintaining a healthy weight is vital for overall skin health. An overweight dog may develop skin folds that are difficult to keep clean, leading to chronic irritation. Perform a regular body-condition check by feeling the ribs and waist. If you cannot easily feel the ribs under the coat, your dog may be carrying extra weight. Consistency across all caregivers is essential here, as feeding habits often vary between family members. If you are unsure about your dog's ideal weight, your vet can provide a target range based on their frame and activity level.