Icelandic Sheepdog vs Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
79% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Polish Lowland Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Polish Lowland Sheepdog: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Polish Lowland Sheepdog: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Polish Lowland Sheepdog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Polish Lowland Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Polish Lowland Sheepdog3/5
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
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Bloat: Digestive emergency concern
Thyroid Issues: Hormonal imbalances
Heart Problems: Cardiac health risks
Allergies: Skin sensitivity issues
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
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent herding instincts
Loyal family companion
Good watchdog
Intelligent
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Requires extensive exercise
May be aloof with strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their shaggy coat naturally forms cords if not regularly brushed, similar to dreadlocks!
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.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in Poland during the 16th century as versatile herding dogs, these sheepdogs excelled at managing flocks and protecting farmsteads across the Polish lowlands.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Daily coat maintenance essential to prevent matting. Requires significant exercise commitment. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Welsh Terrier →