Icelandic Sheepdog vs Belgian Malinois
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Belgian Malinois: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Belgian Malinois: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Belgian Malinois: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Belgian Malinois3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Belgian Malinois3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Belgian Malinois3/5
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
Belgian Malinois
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Pannus: Eye inflammation condition
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
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
Belgian Malinois
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent working ability
Athletic
Loyal
Protective
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense drive requires management
Can be too protective
Needs experienced handler
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Belgian Malinois Fun Fact
Belgian Malinois can detect scents 40x better than humans and jump over 8 feet high!
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.
Belgian Malinois
Origin:
Developed in Belgium during the 1800s as versatile herding dogs and guardians. Malinois served alongside military and police forces, excelling in protection work.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Belgian Malinois
Requires extensive socialization, high-level exercise commitment, and experienced handling. Regular grooming and mental stimulation essential for balanced behavior.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Welsh Terrier →