Icelandic Sheepdog vs Tornjak
Breed Compatibility
68% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Tornjak: N/A
Less Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Tornjak: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Tornjak: N/A
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Tornjak3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Tornjak1/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Tornjak3/5
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
Tornjak
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow dysplasia: Joint issues
Eye problems: Various conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Heart issues: Cardiac concerns
Skin allergies: Dermatitis
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
Tornjak
Pros
Excellent guardian
Loyal family companion
Weather-resistant coat
Intelligent
Good with children
Cons
Needs extensive space
Heavy shedding
Strong-willed nature
High exercise needs
Requires early socialization
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Tornjak Fun Fact
Tornjaks can distinguish between welcome guests and intruders without specific training, showing remarkable judgment.
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.
Tornjak
Origin:
Developed in the mountainous regions of Bosnia and Croatia as livestock guardians during medieval times. Protected flocks from predators while displaying exceptional loyalty to their charges.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Tornjak
Requires regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise needs must be met daily. Health monitoring important due to size-related concerns.
Shedding
SeasonalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Welsh Terrier →