Icelandic Sheepdog vs Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Breed Compatibility
79% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Anatolian Shepherd Dog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Anatolian Shepherd Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Anatolian Shepherd Dog1/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Icelandic Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cataracts: Vision impairment
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Distichiasis: Abnormal eyelash growth
Cryptorchidism: Retained testicles
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward condition
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Bloat: Gastric dilatation risk
Cardiomyopathy: Heart muscle disease
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Independent nature
Weather-resistant coat
Low grooming needs
Loyal to family
Cons
Strong-willed and challenging to train
Requires extensive socialization
Not suitable for small spaces
Can be territorial
Independent decision-making
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Fun Fact
Anatolian Shepherds can sprint at speeds up to 35 mph, making them formidable defenders against wolves.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Origin: Turkey
Developed in ancient Anatolia (modern Turkey) as a livestock guardian, protecting flocks from predators across vast mountainous regions. Valued for independence and protective instincts.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular exercise essential. Health monitoring important, especially for joint issues and bloat risk.
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