Icelandic Sheepdog vs Hamiltonstovare
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Hamiltonstovare: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Hamiltonstovare: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Hamiltonstovare: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Hamiltonstovare5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Hamiltonstovare3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Hamiltonstovare5/5
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
Hamiltonstovare
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Regular checks needed
Ear Infections: Due to floppy ears
Bloat: Monitor eating habits
Skin Allergies: Watch for irritation
Joint Issues: Regular exercise needed
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
Hamiltonstovare
Pros
Excellent tracking abilities
Good with families
Low grooming needs
Athletic and agile
Cons
Strong prey drive
Needs lots of exercise
Can be stubborn
Not apartment suitable
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Hamiltonstovare Fun Fact
Named after Swedish Count Adolf Hamilton, who developed the breed for hunting in Nordic terrain.
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.
Hamiltonstovare
Origin:
Developed in Sweden during the 1800s by Count Adolf Hamilton, these dogs excelled at hunting hare and fox across challenging Nordic terrain. Their exceptional scenting ability and endurance made them invaluable.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Hamiltonstovare
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular ear cleaning required. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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