Icelandic Sheepdog vs Pointer
Breed Compatibility
46% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Pointer: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Pointer: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Pointer: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Pointer/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Pointer/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Pointer/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
Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal concerns
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Gastric torsion 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
Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Athletic and agile
Low grooming needs
Good with families
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong prey drive
Not suited for apartment living
Can be stubborn
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Pointer Fun Fact
Their characteristic 'pointing' stance was so valued that it was naturally selected for centuries.
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.
Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Europe during the 1600s, these dogs were prized for their ability to locate and point game birds. Their keen nose and statuesque pointing stance revolutionized bird hunting.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Pointer
Weekly brushing maintains coat condition. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular health screening for breed-specific issues is essential.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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