German Wirehaired Pointer vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
German Wirehaired Pointer: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
German Wirehaired Pointer: Eager to Please1.0
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
German Wirehaired Pointer: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
German Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
German Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
German Wirehaired Pointer4/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
German Wirehaired Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward
Gastric Torsion: Stomach bloating 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
German Wirehaired Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Versatile working ability
Strong tracking skills
Loyal family dog
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
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
German Wirehaired Pointer Fun Fact
Their wiry coat is naturally water-repellent and can protect them while working in thick brush or icy water.
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
German Wirehaired Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 19th century, these versatile gun dogs excelled at hunting various game in different terrains. Master trackers and retrievers on both land and water.
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
German Wirehaired Pointer
Weekly brushing and hand-stripping of coat needed. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues important.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.