American Hairless Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog

American Hairless Terrier
American Hairless Terrier

Energetic, Alert, Curious

Icelandic Sheepdog
Icelandic Sheepdog

Friendly, Playful, Inquisitive

Breed Compatibility

87% Compatible

Energy Level

American Hairless Terrier: N/A
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Less Compatible

Trainability

American Hairless Terrier: N/A
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible

Grooming Needs

American Hairless Terrier: N/A
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible

Cost Category

Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible

Compatibility with Others

Good with Children
American Hairless Terrier5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Hairless Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
American Hairless Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5

Living Requirements

Health & Care Comparison

American Hairless Terrier

Allergies: Skin sensitivity issues
Dental issues: Regular cleaning needed
Patella luxation: Knee joint problems
Eye problems: Various conditions
Heart issues: Regular monitoring needed
Thyroid concerns: Hormone imbalances

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

American Hairless Terrier

Pros
Hypoallergenic
Great for families
Low maintenance grooming
Highly adaptable
Intelligent and trainable
Cons
Needs sun protection
Temperature sensitive
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
May be vocal

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

American Hairless Terrier Fun Fact

They're born with a fine coat of fur that falls out, leaving them completely hairless by 6-8 weeks of age!

Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact

These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.

Heritage & Purpose

American Hairless Terrier

Origin: United States

Developed in Louisiana during the 1970s from a hairless mutation in Rat Terriers. Bred specifically as companion dogs and for families seeking hypoallergenic pets.

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

American Hairless Terrier

Needs sun protection and temperature regulation. Regular skin care required. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Special attention to dental hygiene important.

Icelandic Sheepdog

Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.

Shedding

Seasonal

Related Comparisons