Havanese vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Havanese: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Havanese: Easy Training0.8
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Havanese: 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
Havanese5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Havanese5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Havanese5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Havanese
Chondrodysplasia: Skeletal growth issue
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint problem
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormality
Cataracts: Vision deterioration
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
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
Havanese
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Good with children
Highly adaptable
Low shedding
Intelligent
Social nature
Cons
Regular grooming needed
Separation anxiety prone
Can be vocal
Frequent brushing required
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
Havanese Fun Fact
Havanese are the only native dog breed of Cuba and were once known as 'Blanquitos de la Habana'.
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Havanese
Origin:
Developed in Cuba during the 1800s as companion dogs for aristocratic families, these charming pets became favored among wealthy Europeans and Cuban expatriates.
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
Havanese
Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat. They need consistent companionship and may develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently.
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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