Australian Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Terrier: Energetic0.8
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Terrier5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Terrier
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Luxating Patella: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint degeneration
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Cruciate Ligament: Knee joint problems
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
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
Australian Terrier
Pros
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Loyal companion
Good watchdog
Adaptable
Intelligent
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Strong prey drive
Can be territorial
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
Australian Terrier Fun Fact
Australian Terriers were the first native Australian breed to be recognized and shown in their homeland!
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s, these terriers excelled at controlling rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, proving invaluable to colonial settlers.
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
Australian Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important 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
InfrequentShedding
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