Where we believe in developing the Total Dog through a lifetime of learning and breeding for sound structure and temperament
Icelandic Sheepdogs | German Shepherds | Glen of Imaal Terriers
The History of our Breeds
Icelandic Sheepdogs
The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland's only native dog breed, dating back thousands of years. The population of the breed has fluctuated throughout its history and was even near extinction! With careful considerations and organized breeding, dedicated breeders were able to bring this wonderful breed back to life for us to enjoy.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a herding dog bred to have a great work ethic for a full day of farm work. These happy, sweet-tempered dogs enjoy having a job (even if it's not on a farm) and are very useful for a variety of chores. In Iceland during bad weather, visibility is limited, their sense of smell helps them locate the sheep. They also use their "voice" to scare birds of prey from the livestock. They joined the American Kennel Club's herding group in 2010 when they were fully recognized by the organization.
Icelandic Sheepdogs should be 16.5-18" tall at the shoulder. They can be short-haired or long-haired and come in a variety of colors, with white always accompanying. Double Dewclaws are desirable, singles are required. To learn more about the breed, please check out our Icelandic Sheepdog Page!
German Shepherds
The standardization of German Shepherds started in 1889 with the goal of creating a supple but powerful dog that possessed endurance, steadiness and intelligence. Through careful breeding selection (and inbreeding), the bloodline was consolidated and the breed began to form.
By 1913, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America was formed, however in 1917 the name was briefly changed to The Shepherd Dog Club of America because all things German became taboo. The breed was highly sought after during World War II and employed as mine detectors, guard work, messengers and other services. Breeders have continued to select for the strong qualities that are endearing to the breed, strong work ethic, sound temperament, agility and beautiful structure. Additionally, importing new pedigrees across generations has proved valuable in improving deficiencies and increasing diversity.
German Shepherds should be between 22-24"(female) and 24-26"(male) tall at the shoulder. They can be long coated, but it is considered a minor fault. They should be strong, well-muscled and have strong rich colors. Their temperament should be aloof but accepting, direct and fearless. To learn more about the breed, please check out our German Shepherd Page!
Glen of Imaal Terriers
The Glen of Imaal Terriers were developed in the 17th and 18th centuries in Glen of Imaal region of the Wicklow Mountains. Long and low to the ground, the Glens were purposefully bred to be short and stocky. They guarded livestock, hunted badger, fox and otter and dispatched vermin of all sorts around the farm. They were bred to be silent hunters, but many times worked alongside other more vocal terriers. Legend has it that the Glens were employed as a "turnspit dog" paddling a treadmill to turn a spit in the hearth. Throughout the breed history into today, versatility of these wonderful animals was and remains very important to the Glen breeders.
Glens should be between 12.5 and 14" at the shoulder and a ratio of approximately 5 (length) to 3 (height). Their coat is medium in length with a harsh texture and soft undercoat. Their coat does require hand striping. They come in three colors: wheaten, blue or brindle (most commonly blue brindle). To learn more about the breed, please check out our Glen of Imaal Page!