Icelandic Sheepdog vs Australian Terrier
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Australian Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Australian Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Australian Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Australian Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Australian Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Australian Terrier3/5
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
Australian Terrier
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Luxating Patella: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint degeneration
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Cruciate Ligament: Knee joint problems
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
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
Australian Terrier
Pros
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Loyal companion
Good watchdog
Adaptable
Intelligent
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Strong prey drive
Can be territorial
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Australian Terrier Fun Fact
Australian Terriers were the first native Australian breed to be recognized and shown in their homeland!
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.
Australian Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s, these terriers excelled at controlling rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, proving invaluable to colonial settlers.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Australian Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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