AN ICELANDIC sheepdog from Herefordshire is heading to Crufts with her owner, who first discovered the rare breed through a Facebook post.
Nora, a spitz‑type herding dog, joined the home of Jessica Huntley in Leominster in 2024.
Now, the young dog is preparing to compete at the world’s biggest dog show, an event which has existed in its modern form since 1891.
Dogs and owners are invited from around the world to compete in Crufts with thousands also spectating.
In 2024, over 24,000 dogs and 155,000 humans attended, while 8.7 million viewers tuned in from around the world.
Nora
Miss Huntley, who grew up surrounded by animals said she fell in love with Nora's breed and knew she was the perfect choice.
She said: "I found I definitely love Spitz breeds, but my husband grew up with collies.
"The Icelandic sheepdog is a spitz breed but as a herding dog has some very similar markings to a collie."
The Icelandic sheepdog has recently been recognized as Britain’s newest pedigree breed by the Kennel Club, marking a significant milestone.
The ancient herding dog, with roots tracing back over 1,000 years, became the 224th breed to be officially recognised.
Mrs Huntley had to find a breeder abroad as there are only around 30 of the dogs in the UK.
"I found a breeder in France and the parents were beautiful." She said.
"Nora was born at the end of November and I knew instantly which one I wanted. She was beautiful, playful, loving and made herself stand out."
Getting Nora home proved a challenge, as Jessica was unable to drive long distances due to health issues.
"We went through so many companies until we found the right one who would drive her back and stay with her until she arrived.
"The day of delivery came and I kept checking my phone constantly, she finally arrived and it was love at first sight." She said.
Training
Nora was allowed to start competing at around seven months old, with her owner training her to be highly successful.
"By the time Nora was a year old, she had three reserve best bitches under her belt, multiple puppy group placings and best of breed." Mrs Huntley said.
"She qualified for Crufts at her first championship show, was the first Icelandic to do so, and I have no doubt she will continue to take the show world by storm!
"She is the most successful Icelandic sheepdog showing to date."
Nora will compete in Crufts 2026.
Mrs Huntley said: "She is my everything, my reason for getting up each day. She has taught me how to speak to people as everyone asks about her.
"She provides love and comfort every single day without fail.
"She's been there for everything and I cannot be without her."
