Icelandic Sheepdog vs English Foxhound
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
English Foxhound: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
English Foxhound: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
English Foxhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
English Foxhound5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
English Foxhound5/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
English Foxhound4/5
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
English Foxhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Renal Disease: Kidney function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Thrombocytopathy: Blood clotting issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular concerns
Ear Infections: Chronic inflammation
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
English Foxhound
Pros
Excellent endurance
Good with other dogs
Gentle temperament
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong hunting instincts
Not apartment suitable
Can be vocal
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
English Foxhound Fun Fact
English Foxhounds are so rarely kept as pets that they're one of the rarest AKC-registered breeds!
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.
English Foxhound
Origin:
Developed in England during the 16th century, these hounds excelled in fox hunting across vast territories. Their remarkable stamina and tracking abilities made them essential to traditional British foxhunts.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
English Foxhound
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Regular exercise essential. Moderate grooming needs but vocal nature may not suit close neighbors.
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