I named my kennel, Lukehaven Icelandic Sheepdogs, in honor of Luke, an extraordinary Icelandic Sheepdog who forever holds a special place in my heart. Luke was far more than just a remarkable dog—he embodied my vision and brought my dreams vividly to life.

I imported Luke from Iceland, where he was bred by Erla Bjork, and he quickly proved to be one of those rare, unforgettable dogs. His accomplishments speak volumes about the excellence I continuously strive for in my breeding program. Twice named Best of Breed at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Luke exemplified superior conformation and adherence to breed standards. He also earned the title of Best of Breed at the AKC Eukanuba National in 2013.

Beyond conformation, Luke’s remarkable versatility shone brightly. He earned a PAX title in agility and a PT title in AKC herding, achievements that highlighted his exceptional intelligence, agility, and working capability—qualities at the very heart of the Icelandic Sheepdog breed. He participated notably in both the first Westminster agility trial and the conformation trial in 2014, one of only two dogs to do so. His charm even caught the media’s eye; his photo appeared in the New York Times, flashed prominently on the NASDAQ board in Times Square, and made a brief but delightful appearance on Good Morning America.

Tragically, Luke’s life was cut short at age seven when he suddenly fell ill and passed away just 11 days later from a meningioma, a type of brain tumor. At the time of his passing, he was just 23 points shy of earning his PACH title in agility.

Luke was more than a champion dog—he was my beloved buddy who greeted everyone with boundless enthusiasm and joy. His legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Lukehaven Kennel, serving as a guiding light that inspires me every day. My dedication to excellence, versatility, and the breed’s historical roots reflects my ongoing commitment to honoring Luke’s extraordinary legacy.

Luke’s spirit lives on in his offspring and their descendants. His daughter Scout gave us Freyja and son Roy proudly continue his line, along with his granddaughters Freyja and Raina, and great-granddaughter Elsa, ensuring Luke’s influence endures through generations.

I miss Luke every day, but I am incredibly proud and grateful to carry forward his legacy, celebrating the remarkable qualities he embodied. ~Loren🐾