I'm Joan "Gail" H., the breeder behind Hrafnkell Icelandics located in Brownsville, OR. We give preference to applicants with prior experience with Icelandic sheepdogs and who live an active lifestyle that includes the dog in active outdoor activities, canine performance sports, herding and other related activities. Positive reinforcement and the use of Puppy Culture are important.
Q. & A. with Joan "Gail"
Why did you start breeding?
The late Thordur Runolfson sold us our first Icelandic sheepdog, a male. When we decided to bring a female into our family, Thordur arranged for us to purchase Gerplu Blida Snotra from his cousin in the home country. She is now a GCH CH Bronze in AKC ratings. It seemed to me important that her genetic characteristics continue in the breed.
What makes your program special?
We work to place dogs in the home environment that is best for them, given the dog's individual characteristics. The welfare of the dog comes first. They came into the world because of me and I am responsible for the lifetime of the dog. Part of that process a thorough assessment by a professional knowledgeable about the breed and the role of purpose bred dogs.
Where do your breeding dogs live?
They live in my home.
Matched dogs
These dogs are already reserved or have gone home.
Boy 1
Went home
Male
Boy 1
Went home
Male
Boy 2
Went home
Male
Getting a puppy from Joan "Gail"
Joan "Gail" has been certified by Good Dog’s screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you’re ready to reach out, feel free to ask any questions about the breed, their program, or specific puppies.
Together, you’ll choose the puppy that’s right for you, stay in touch with regular updates, and plan how to bring your new puppy home.
Price
Puppy prices include a $500 deposit and $2,000 final payment, before taxes & fees.
“The price includes socialization, health examination, vaccines and microchip, preliminary AKC registration, and a full evaluation of temperament, appropriate working placement, and conformation show potential. All puppies are the same price regardless of sex, size, color, or potential. Buyers may indicate a preference as to sex but that is not guaranteed. Family lifestyle is a significant factor.”
Contract & health guarantee
Joan "Gail" may provide a written contract or
health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps
protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you
both have a clear understanding of the terms of your
puppy purchase. If Joan "Gail" offers a contract
or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them.
If you have any questions or want to know more,
don’t hesitate to reach out to Joan "Gail" directly.
You can drive or fly to pick up your puppy from Joan "Gail".
Breeder’s location
Meet in Brownsville, OR
Other pick-up locations
Meet at Seattle–Tacoma Airport
More about Joan "Gail"
Club memberships
Joan "Gail" is a member of Linn County Kennel Club, Chintimini Kennel Club, Linn County Kennel Club, and Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America.
Certifications & recognitions
CHIC Certified.
Joan "Gail" has been a member of Good Dog for about 3 years
Joan "Gail" was screened for responsible practices and has been a member since 2022.
Joan "Gail" is a trusted Good Dog breeder
Hrafnkell Icelandics meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:
Responsible breeding practices
Health of breeding dogs and puppies
Puppy environment and enrichment
Buyer education and policies
Parent dogs
Snotra, mom
Icelandic Sheepdog
About Snotra
Snotra is a female Icelandic Sheepdog. Carefully selected as a great representative of her breed, Joan "Gail" decided to make her part of their program. Joan "Gail" has passed Good Dog’s screening process, which involved a review of their breeding practices, environment, and the mental and physical health of their dogs.
Kokie, dad
Icelandic Sheepdog
About Kokie
Kokie is a male Icelandic Sheepdog. Carefully selected as a great representative of his breed, Joan "Gail" decided to make him part of their program. Joan "Gail" has passed Good Dog’s screening process, which involved a review of their breeding practices, environment, and the mental and physical health of their dogs.
Parent health testing
Breeder-Reported Testing
Great level
Hrafnkell Icelandics reports to performing the health tests below on their breeding dogs. Ask your breeder about the tests performed on the parents of your litter. Learn more about health testing for Icelandic Sheepdogs.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip testing reduces the chance of passing down hip dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause hip pain and the eventual loss of the function of the hip joint.
Eye Certification (CAER, registered with OFA)
Eye testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide range of hereditary eye illnesses including retinal dysplasia, lens luxation, and glaucoma, which can cause impared vision or blindness.
Full Embark Panel
Genetic testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide variety of hereditary diseases of differing prevalence and severity such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disease) and Von Willebrand's Disease (a blood disease).