Barbet vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Barbet: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Barbet: Agreeable0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Barbet: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Barbet5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Barbet5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Barbet3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Barbet
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
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
Barbet
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Good with families
Low shedding coat
Intelligent and trainable
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires regular exercise
Can be expensive to maintain
Prone to ear infections
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
Barbet Fun Fact
Barbets are so water-loving that their nickname in France is 'Barbet of the marshes'!
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Barbet
Origin:
French water dogs from the 16th century, Barbets were developed to retrieve waterfowl from marshes and lakes. Their waterproof coat and swimming ability made them invaluable hunting companions.
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
Barbet
Regular grooming to maintain their distinctive coat, access to swimming opportunities, and protection from ear infections during water activities are essential.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
SeasonalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Barbet vs Labrador Retriever →Same Group
Barbet vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Barbet vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Barbet vs Afghan Hound →