Icelandic Sheepdog vs Saluki
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Saluki: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Saluki: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Saluki: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Saluki3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Saluki3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Saluki3/5
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
Saluki
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Cardiac Issues: Heart health concerns
Hemangiosarcoma: Blood vessel cancer
Eye Problems: Various vision issues
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid dysfunction
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
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
Saluki
Pros
Elegant and graceful
Athletic and swift
Low grooming needs
Quiet and clean
Loyal to family
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Needs secure fencing
Challenging to train
Requires extensive exercise
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Saluki Fun Fact
Salukis were so valued in ancient Egypt that they were often mummified like pharaohs upon death.
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.
Saluki
Origin:
Desert hunters in the Fertile Crescent, Salukis served ancient nobility as swift pursuit hounds for gazelle and hare hunting across vast sandy terrains.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Saluki
Requires secure fencing due to prey drive. Regular exercise essential. Gentle grooming needed. Temperature sensitivity demands indoor comfort.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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