Parson Russell Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Parson Russell Terrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Parson Russell Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Parson Russell Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Parson Russell Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Parson Russell Terrier5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Parson Russell Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Parson Russell Terrier
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Ataxia: Neurological coordination issue
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Primary lens luxation: Eye 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
Parson Russell Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent exercise companion
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be vocal
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
Parson Russell Terrier Fun Fact
These terriers can jump up to five times their own height, making them exceptional athletes in dog sports!
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Parson Russell Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s as a skilled fox hunting terrier, these dogs excelled at following quarry underground and maintaining steady pursuit during hunts.
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
Parson Russell Terrier
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming needed to maintain coat. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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