Icelandic Sheepdog vs Basset Hound
Breed Compatibility
90% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Basset Hound: Couch Potato0.2
Less Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Basset Hound: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Basset Hound: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Basset Hound5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Basset Hound5/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Basset Hound3/5
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
Basset Hound
Ear Infections: Prone due to long ears
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Thrombopathy: Blood clotting issue
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
Basset Hound
Pros
Gentle and patient temperament
Great with children and other pets
Low exercise needs
Excellent sense of smell
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Stubborn and challenging to train
Prone to obesity
Regular ear cleaning required
Significant drooling
Can be vocal
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Basset Hound Fun Fact
Their long ears help sweep scent particles toward their nose, making them one of the best tracking breeds!
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.
Basset Hound
Origin:
Developed in medieval France during the 1500s, these scent hounds excelled at tracking rabbits and hares through dense underbrush, their low-set bodies and powerful noses perfectly suited for the task.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Basset Hound
Regular ear cleaning essential due to infection risk. Weight management crucial to prevent joint stress. Moderate exercise needed despite low energy levels.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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