Great Pyrenees vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
79% Compatible
Energy Level
Great Pyrenees: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Great Pyrenees: Independent0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Great Pyrenees: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Great Pyrenees3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Great Pyrenees3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Great Pyrenees3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Great Pyrenees
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Bone Cancer: Higher risk breed
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
Great Pyrenees
Pros
Excellent guardian
Gentle with family
Independent nature
Good with children
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Heavy shedding
Stubborn streak
Needs space
Independent nature
Barking tendency
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
Great Pyrenees Fun Fact
Great Pyrenees were once appointed as official guard dogs for the French royal court in medieval times.
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Great Pyrenees
Origin:
Mountain guardians in the Pyrenees range between France and Spain, protecting sheep from wolves and bears since medieval times. Valued for their independence and protective instincts.
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
Great Pyrenees
Regular grooming needed for heavy coat. Requires secure fencing due to roaming instincts. Early socialization essential 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.
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