Icelandic Sheepdog vs Borzoi
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Borzoi: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Borzoi: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Borzoi: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Borzoi3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Borzoi3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Borzoi3/5
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
Borzoi
Bloat: Serious stomach condition
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Vision disorders
Osteochondrosis: Joint disease
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
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
Borzoi
Pros
Elegant and graceful appearance
Gentle and calm indoors
Low barking tendency
Good with other dogs
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Requires secure fencing
Regular grooming needed
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Borzoi Fun Fact
Despite their large size, Borzois were historically allowed to sleep in Russian nobles' bedrooms as bed warmers.
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.
Borzoi
Origin:
Russian aristocrats bred these hounds during the 16th century for hunting wolves and other game across vast open terrain. Their speed and sight-hunting abilities were prized among nobility.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Borzoi
Requires secure fencing due to prey drive and speed. Weekly grooming sessions needed for coat maintenance. Exercise must be controlled during growth to protect joints.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Welsh Terrier →