Border Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Border Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Border Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Border Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Border Terrier5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Border Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Border Terrier4/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Border Terrier
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
SLEM: spongiform encephalopathy
Heart defects: valve issues
Epilepsy: seizure disorder
Eye problems: progressive issues
Dental issues: tooth decay risk
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
Border Terrier
Pros
Excellent with families
Adaptable to different living situations
Low grooming requirements
Good with children
Cons
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May dig and bark
Needs consistent exercise
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
Border Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Border Terriers were bred to keep pace with horses during fox hunts!
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Border Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the border country between England and Scotland during the 18th century, these terriers excelled at hunting foxes and rodents in the rugged terrain.
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
Border Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat condition. 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
OccasionalShedding
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