Airedale Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Airedale Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Airedale Terrier: Eager to Please1.0
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Airedale Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Airedale Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Airedale Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Airedale Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Airedale Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Skin Allergies: Various dermal reactions
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid gland disorder
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Icelandic Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cataracts: Vision impairment
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Distichiasis: Abnormal eyelash growth
Cryptorchidism: Retained testicles
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Pros & Cons Comparison
Airedale Terrier
Pros
Intelligent and trainable
Excellent watchdog
Low shedding
Versatile working ability
Good with families
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
High exercise needs
May chase small animals
Strong prey drive
Icelandic Sheepdog
Pros
Highly trainable
Good with families
Weather resistant coat
Excellent herding instincts
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Strong herding drive
Airedale Terrier Fun Fact
Airedales served as military messenger dogs in World War I and were among the first police dogs in Britain.
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Airedale Terrier
Origin: England
Developed in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire during the 1800s, these versatile dogs excelled in hunting otters and vermin while serving as capable farm dogs and family protectors.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Origin:
Dating back to the 9th century in Iceland, these dogs served as invaluable herding companions to Viking settlers, managing sheep across rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions.
Special Considerations
Airedale Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed every 8-12 weeks. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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