Icelandic Sheepdog vs Swedish Lapphund
Breed Compatibility
78% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Swedish Lapphund: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Swedish Lapphund: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Swedish Lapphund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Swedish Lapphund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Swedish Lapphund3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Swedish Lapphund4/5
Living Requirements
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
Swedish Lapphund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Cataracts: Lens opacity development
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Periodontal disease risk
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
Swedish Lapphund
Pros
Excellent cold weather tolerance
Strong herding instincts
Loyal family companion
Good with children
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong prey drive
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Swedish Lapphund Fun Fact
Swedish Lapphunds can effectively herd reindeer by using their distinctive barking pattern to control the herd.
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.
Swedish Lapphund
Origin:
Developed in Lapland during the 17th century, these dogs served as reindeer herders and watchdogs for the Sami people in northern Scandinavia.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Swedish Lapphund
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
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