Scottish Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Scottish Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Scottish Terrier: Independent0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Scottish Terrier: 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
Scottish Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Scottish Terrier2/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Scottish Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Scottish Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Scottie Cramp: Movement disorder
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain condition
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
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
Scottish Terrier
Pros
Loyal and protective
Low shedding
Good watchdog
Adaptable to various living spaces
Cons
Stubborn streak
High grooming needs
Can be territorial
Strong prey drive
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
Scottish Terrier Fun Fact
President Franklin D. Roosevelt's beloved Scottie, Fala, became one of the most famous presidential pets.
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Scottish Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1700s, these tenacious terriers excelled at hunting badgers, foxes, and other burrowing prey in challenging terrain.
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
Scottish Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Strong prey drive requires secure fencing. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
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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