Icelandic Sheepdog vs Wire Fox Terrier
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Wire Fox Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Wire Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Wire Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Wire Fox Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
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
Wire Fox Terrier
Cataracts: Progressive eye cloudiness
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint deformity
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Allergies: Skin sensitivities common
Heart murmurs: Cardiac irregularities
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
Wire Fox Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent watchdogs
Low shedding coat
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May be vocal
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Wire Fox Terrier Fun Fact
These terriers were among the first breeds registered with the AKC and have won more Westminster Best in Shows than most breeds!
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.
Wire Fox Terrier
Origin: England
Developed in England during the 1800s, these skilled hunters excelled at flushing foxes from their dens, working alongside mounted hunting parties in pursuit of game.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Wire Fox Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization crucial for managing terrier temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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