Old English Sheepdog vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
91% Compatible
Energy Level
Old English Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Old English Sheepdog: Independent0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Old English Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Old English Sheepdog5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Old English Sheepdog3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Old English Sheepdog3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Old English Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: PRA and cataracts
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia
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
Old English Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Intelligent and trainable
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Heavy shedding
High grooming requirements
Can be stubborn
Requires significant exercise
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
Old English Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their shaggy coat earned them the nickname 'Bobtail,' despite actually having a naturally long tail!
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Old English Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in western England during the 1800s, these dogs expertly drove cattle and sheep to market across the countryside, earning their reputation as skilled herding companions.
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
Old English Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions essential to prevent matting. Needs consistent exercise routine and early socialization. Monitor for signs of overheating in warm weather.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Related Comparisons
Similar Size
Old English Sheepdog vs Borzoi →