Japanese Chin vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
79% Compatible
Energy Level
Japanese Chin: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Japanese Chin: Independent0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Japanese Chin: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Japanese Chin3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Japanese Chin5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Japanese Chin3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Japanese Chin
Heart murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Patellar luxation: Kneecap issues
Eye problems: Various conditions
Respiratory issues: Due to flat face
Dental problems: Small jaw issues
Heat sensitivity: Temperature control
Icelandic Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cataracts: Vision impairment
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Distichiasis: Abnormal eyelash growth
Cryptorchidism: Retained testicles
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Pros & Cons Comparison
Japanese Chin
Pros
Excellent apartment dog
Gentle disposition
Low exercise needs
Good with other pets
Elegant appearance
Cons
Delicate health
Difficult to housebreak
Temperature sensitive
Regular grooming needed
Can be stubborn
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
Japanese Chin Fun Fact
Japanese Chins are known to perform a unique 'Chin Spin' when excited, spinning in circles with joy!
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Japanese Chin
Origin:
Cherished as companions to Chinese and Japanese nobility since the 6th century, these refined dogs served as prized royal gifts and palace entertainers.
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.
Special Considerations
Japanese Chin
Regular grooming needed for silky coat maintenance. Temperature sensitivity requires climate control. Special attention to dental hygiene due to small jaw structure.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Japanese Chin vs Yorkshire Terrier →Same Group
Japanese Chin vs Toy Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Japanese Chin vs Yorkshire Terrier →Similar Size
Japanese Chin vs Wire Fox Terrier →