Icelandic Sheepdog vs Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Breed Compatibility
79% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Dandie Dinmont Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Dandie Dinmont Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Dandie Dinmont Terrier4/5
Living Requirements
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
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure
Disc Disease: Spinal complications
Hip Issues: Joint deterioration
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Cushings: Hormone imbalance
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
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
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Pros
Loyal companion
Good with families
Adaptable
Low shedding
Cons
Independent nature
Grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Limited exercise tolerance
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier Fun Fact
Only breed named after a fictional character - Dandie Dinmont from 'Guy Mannering'!
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.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Scottish Borders during the 1700s for hunting badgers and otters. These terriers earned fame through Sir Walter Scott's novel featuring the character Dandie Dinmont.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Daily grooming required to maintain coat condition. Moderate exercise needs must be met consistently. Regular veterinary check-ups important for spinal health monitoring.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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