Otterhound vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
78% Compatible
Energy Level
Otterhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Otterhound: May be Stubborn0.2
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Otterhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Otterhound3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Otterhound3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Otterhound4/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Otterhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint condition
Glaucoma: Eye pressure issue
CTP: Blood clotting disorder
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
Otterhound
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Friendly temperament
Good with families
Strong tracking abilities
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires lots of exercise
Can be stubborn
Rare and expensive
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
Otterhound Fun Fact
Otterhounds have one of the strongest noses in the dog world, able to track scents underwater and up to 72 hours old.
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Otterhound
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 12th century, these robust hounds were bred specifically for hunting otters in rivers and streams, using their powerful swimming abilities and keen sense of smell.
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
Otterhound
Regular coat maintenance needed to prevent matting. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Health screening for genetic conditions essential before breeding.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
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