Icelandic Sheepdog vs Segugio Italiano
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Herding Group
Segugio Italiano
Foundation Stock Service
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Icelandic Sheepdog Overview
Icelandic Sheepdogs are sturdy, agile herding dogs with distinctive spitz-like features, including a thick double coat that comes in various colors. Their alert, pointed ears and curled tail complement a well-proportioned frame built for endurance. Known for their cheerful expression and medium size, these dogs exhibit remarkable agility and stamina suited to their herding heritage.
Segugio Italiano Overview
Segugio Italiano is a medium-sized scent hound characterized by a lean, athletic build and distinctive long ears. Their short, dense coat comes in solid fawn or black-and-tan. Distinguished by keen intelligence and remarkable stamina, these dogs showcase a balanced temperament combining eagerness to work with gentle companionship. Their refined head structure, deep chest, and powerful legs reflect their heritage as skilled hunting companions.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Icelandic Sheepdogs are more energetic than Segugio Italianos, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Icelandic Sheepdogs require less grooming attention compared to Segugio Italianos.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Icelandic Sheepdogs tend to be more reserved with strangers than Segugio Italianos.
- Trainability: Segugio Italianos may be slightly easier to train due to their Segugio Italiano's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Segugio Italianos adapt better to apartment living, while Icelandic Sheepdogs typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Icelandic Sheepdog and Segugio Italiano, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Segugio Italiano |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 11-13 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Herding Group | Foundation Stock Service |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Segugio Italiano |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-18 inches 42-46 cm | 19-23 inches 48-58 cm |
| Weight | 25-30 lbs 11-14 kg | 40-60 lbs 18-27 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Segugio Italiano |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Playful, Inquisitive | Friendly, Intelligent, Eager to Please |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Segugio Italiano |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Icelandic Sheepdog Temperament
The Icelandic Sheepdog is known for being friendly, playful, inquisitive, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Segugio Italiano Temperament
The Segugio Italiano is characterized by being friendly, intelligent, eager to please, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Icelandic Sheepdog and Segugio Italiano, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 5/5
Segugio Italiano
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 4/5
Segugio Italiano
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 4/5
Segugio Italiano
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 1/5
Segugio Italiano
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 3/5
Segugio Italiano
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Icelandic Sheepdog Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Icelandic Sheepdogs require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Icelandic Sheepdogs require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Segugio Italiano Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Segugio Italianos need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Segugio Italianos require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Icelandic Sheepdog Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Cataracts
- PRA
- Distichiasis
- Cryptorchidism
Segugio Italiano Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Ear Infections
- Bloat
- Skin Allergies
Pros & Cons
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
Segugio Italiano
Pros
- Excellent tracking abilities
- Friendly temperament
- Low grooming needs
- Good with other dogs
Cons
- Strong prey drive
- Requires extensive exercise
- Can be vocal
- May be stubborn
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Icelandic Sheepdog and Segugio Italiano, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.