Icelandic Sheepdog vs Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
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
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
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.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Overview
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers possess a distinctive rough-textured coat and athletic build, standing 24.5 to 26.5 inches at the shoulder. Their muscular frame supports an agile, powerful hunting companion with a keen sense of smell. The breed exhibits a balanced temperament, combining determination in the field with gentleness at home. Their wire-haired coat provides protection in rough terrain while their expressive eyes convey intelligence and alertness.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Icelandic Sheepdogs are less energetic than Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Icelandic Sheepdogs require more grooming attention compared to Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Icelandic Sheepdogs tend to be more reserved with strangers than Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers.
- Trainability: Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers may be slightly easier to train due to their Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Icelandic Sheepdogs adapt better to apartment living, while Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Icelandic Sheepdog and Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Herding Group | Foundation Stock Service |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-18 inches 42-46 cm | 23-27 inches 57-67 cm |
| Weight | 25-30 lbs 11-14 kg | 50-65 lbs 23-29 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Playful, Inquisitive | |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Icelandic Sheepdog | Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Temperament
The Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer is characterized by being , which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Icelandic Sheepdog and Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer, 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
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 4/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 4/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 4/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 1/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Rating: 3/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Rating: 2/5
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.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers 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
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Bloat
- Ear Infections
- 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
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Pros
- Excellent hunting abilities
- Strong work ethic
- Loyal family companion
- Weather-resistant coat
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Independent nature
- Regular grooming required
- Strong prey drive
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Icelandic Sheepdog and Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.