Icelandic Sheepdog vs Dutch Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Dutch Shepherd: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Dutch Shepherd: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Dutch Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Dutch Shepherd3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Dutch Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Dutch Shepherd3/5
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
Dutch Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Goniodysplasia: Eye drainage condition
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia risk
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
Dutch Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Versatile working ability
Athletic and agile
Strong protective instincts
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong herding drive
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be territorial
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Dutch Shepherd Fun Fact
Dutch Shepherds were once so common in the Netherlands that they were known simply as 'farm dogs'.
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.
Dutch Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in the Netherlands during the 1800s, these versatile farm dogs excelled at herding sheep and cattle while serving as loyal guardians of rural properties.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Dutch Shepherd
Requires extensive daily exercise, regular mental stimulation, and consistent training. Grooming needs vary by coat type. Health screening essential for breeding.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Welsh Terrier →