Icelandic Sheepdog vs Russell Terrier
Breed Compatibility
45% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Russell Terrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Russell Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Russell Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Russell Terrier/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Russell Terrier/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Russell Terrier/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
Russell Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Lens Luxation: Eye lens dislocation
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Dental Issues: Tooth/gum problems
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
Russell Terrier
Pros
Highly energetic and playful
Compact size suits various homes
Intelligent and trainable
Low grooming requirements
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be vocal
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Russell Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Russell Terriers can jump up to five times their own height!
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.
Russell Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s for fox hunting and vermin control. These small terriers excelled at pursuing quarry underground, demonstrating remarkable courage and tenacity.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Russell Terrier
Regular exercise crucial to prevent boredom. Weekly brushing maintains coat condition. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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