Icelandic Sheepdog vs German Shepherd Dog
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
German Shepherd Dog: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
German Shepherd Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
German Shepherd Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
German Shepherd Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
German Shepherd Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
German Shepherd Dog3/5
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
German Shepherd Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DM: Degenerative myelopathy
EPI: Digestive enzyme deficiency
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
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
German Shepherd Dog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Loyal
Versatile
Protective
Trainable
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be overprotective
Health issues
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
German Shepherd Dog Fun Fact
German Shepherds have starred in numerous films and were among the first dogs trained as guide dogs for the blind.
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.
German Shepherd Dog
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the late 1800s as a herding and working dog. Max von Stephanitz standardized the breed for military and police work, emphasizing utility and intelligence.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
German Shepherd Dog
Regular brushing needed during heavy shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Hip and joint health monitoring essential throughout life.
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