Icelandic Sheepdog vs Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon5/5
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
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Ear Infections: Due to hairy ear canals
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development concern
Thyroid Issues: Metabolic dysfunction risk
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
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
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Devoted family dog
Highly trainable
Good with children
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Fun Fact
Known as the 'supreme gundog,' these dogs can hunt on both land and water with equal proficiency.
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.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Origin:
Developed in the Netherlands during the late 1800s by Eduard Korthals as a versatile hunting companion capable of pointing and retrieving in various terrains.
Special Considerations
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Regular grooming needed to maintain wire coat. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization and training essential for balanced temperament.
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