Icelandic Sheepdog vs Norwegian Elkhound
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Norwegian Elkhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Norwegian Elkhound: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Norwegian Elkhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Norwegian Elkhound3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Norwegian Elkhound4/5
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
Norwegian Elkhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive eye condition
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Sebaceous Cysts: Skin growths
Fanconi Syndrome: Kidney disorder
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
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
Norwegian Elkhound
Pros
Loyal and dependable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Heavy shedding
Strong hunting instincts
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Norwegian Elkhound Fun Fact
Norwegian Elkhounds can track moose for several days through deep snow, earning them the nickname 'gray ghost of the North.'
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.
Norwegian Elkhound
Origin:
Nordic hunters relied on these dogs during the Viking Age to track and hunt moose and other large game across Scandinavia's challenging terrain. Their endurance and tracking abilities proved 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.
Norwegian Elkhound
Regular brushing during shedding seasons, consistent exercise routine, and early socialization are essential. Monitor weight and provide mental stimulation through tracking activities.
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