English Toy Spaniel vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
91% Compatible
Energy Level
English Toy Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
English Toy Spaniel: Independent0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
English Toy Spaniel: 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
English Toy Spaniel5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
English Toy Spaniel5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
English Toy Spaniel3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
English Toy Spaniel
Heart Disease: Mitral valve issues common
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Syringomyelia: Neurological condition
Dental Issues: Tooth overcrowding
Respiratory Issues: Due to flat face
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
English Toy Spaniel
Pros
Gentle temperament
Good with families
Adaptable to apartment living
Affectionate nature
Cons
Regular grooming needed
Health issues common
Can be stubborn
Temperature sensitive
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
English Toy Spaniel Fun Fact
King Charles II was so devoted to these spaniels that they were allowed to roam freely in all royal palaces.
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
English Toy Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the Tudor period as companions for nobility. Favored by King Charles II, these spaniels served as cherished royal lap dogs and palace 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
English Toy Spaniel
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements. Health monitoring important due to breed-specific conditions.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
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