Old Chieftains

Although the population of the Icelandic Sheepdog remains rather small, the breed is generally healthy and remarkably long-lived compared to many other dog breeds.

Recently, I heard of a dog that lived to be over twenty years old – the oldest case I’ve ever come across. You can read about him, Askur, in the newest story added to the collection: Askur–Laxi vom Rensberg.

The picture above shows Kría, taken in February 2024 when we were producing material for the Heritage Center. Kría was born on December 19th, 2009, and passed away recently, on April 23rd, sixteen years old. She was a breeding bitch owned by Connie at Breiðanes and had twelve offspring. The youngest in my group of dogs, Breiðanes Fönn, is her granddaughter.

Kría was always gentle, calm, and carried that special charm that older dogs so often possess. She is deeply missed, but she lives on in the memories of those who met this canine queen – and in her children and grandchildren.

It is a privilege to share life with a dog for so many years.

The longevity of the Icelandic Sheepdog reflects the breed’s healthy genetic foundation and the care and dedication that breeders have shown through the years.