Icelandic Sheepdog vs Tibetan Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
91% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Tibetan Spaniel: Calm0.4
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Tibetan Spaniel: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Tibetan Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Tibetan Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Tibetan Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Tibetan Spaniel4/5
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
Tibetan Spaniel
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Portosystemic Shunt: Liver condition
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid disorder
Entropion: Inward rolling eyelids
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
Tibetan Spaniel
Pros
Adaptable to various living situations
Low exercise requirements
Affectionate with family
Good watchdog capabilities
Cons
Can be stubborn during training
Moderate grooming needs
May be reserved with strangers
Prone to barking
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Tibetan Spaniel Fun Fact
Known as 'Little Lions' in Tibet due to their practice of perching on monastery walls as lookouts.
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.
Tibetan Spaniel
Origin:
Serving as companion and watchdog in Tibetan monasteries since ancient times, these alert dogs were valued for their keen vision and warning abilities in the Himalayan region.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Tibetan Spaniel
Regular grooming needed for double coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements and early socialization important. Watch for eye-related health issues.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Welsh Terrier →