Icelandic Sheepdog vs Bergamasco Sheepdog
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Herding Group
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Herding Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Icelandic Sheepdog Overview
Icelandic Sheepdogs are sturdy, agile herding dogs with distinctive spitz-like features, including a thick double coat that comes in various colors. Their alert, pointed ears and curled tail complement a well-proportioned frame built for endurance. Known for their cheerful expression and medium size, these dogs exhibit remarkable agility and stamina suited to their herding heritage.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Overview
Bergamasco Sheepdogs feature distinctive matted coat flocks that naturally form to protect them while herding. Their robust build combines strength with agility, standing 23.5 inches at the shoulder. The unique three-layered coat consists of fine, goat-like hair, woolly hair, and outer guard hair that merge to form the characteristic flocks. Their intelligent eyes and alert expression reflect their keen herding instincts and watchful nature.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Icelandic Sheepdogs are more energetic than Bergamasco Sheepdogs, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Icelandic Sheepdogs require more grooming attention compared to Bergamasco Sheepdogs.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Icelandic Sheepdogs tend to be more reserved with strangers than Bergamasco Sheepdogs.
- Trainability: Bergamasco Sheepdogs may be slightly easier to train due to their Bergamasco Sheepdog's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Bergamasco Sheepdogs adapt better to apartment living, while Icelandic Sheepdogs typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Icelandic Sheepdog and Bergamasco Sheepdog, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Bergamasco Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 13-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Herding Group | Herding Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Bergamasco Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-18 inches 42-46 cm | 22-24 inches 56-60 cm |
| Weight | 25-30 lbs 11-14 kg | 57-84 lbs 26-38 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Infrequent |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Bergamasco Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Playful, Inquisitive | Independent, Sociable, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Bergamasco Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Icelandic Sheepdog Temperament
The Icelandic Sheepdog is known for being friendly, playful, inquisitive, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Temperament
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is characterized by being independent, sociable, intelligent, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Icelandic Sheepdog and Bergamasco Sheepdog, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 5/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 4/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 4/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 2/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 1/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 2/5
Care & Maintenance
Icelandic Sheepdog Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Icelandic Sheepdogs require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Icelandic Sheepdogs require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Bergamasco Sheepdogs need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Bergamasco Sheepdogs require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Icelandic Sheepdog Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Cataracts
- PRA
- Distichiasis
- Cryptorchidism
Bergamasco Sheepdog Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Bloat
- Elbow dysplasia
- Allergies
Pros & Cons
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
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Pros
- Excellent guardian instincts
- Low-shedding coat
- Intelligent and trainable
- Good with families
Cons
- Complex grooming needs
- Strong-willed nature
- Requires experienced owner
- Needs regular exercise
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Icelandic Sheepdog and Bergamasco Sheepdog, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.