Smooth Fox Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Smooth Fox Terrier: Energetic0.8
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Smooth Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Smooth Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Smooth Fox Terrier
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Cataracts: Vision clouding condition
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Epilepsy: Neurological seizures
Patellar luxation: Kneecap issues
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint problem
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
Smooth Fox Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent
Low maintenance coat
Excellent watchdog
Athletic and agile
Cons
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
Requires firm training
High exercise needs
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
Smooth Fox Terrier Fun Fact
Their distinctive white coat helped hunters distinguish them from foxes during traditional hunts!
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Smooth Fox Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 19th century, these terriers excelled at fox hunting, particularly in driving foxes from their dens. Their smooth coat allowed easy movement through underground burrows.
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
Smooth Fox Terrier
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming maintains coat condition. Regular exercise essential to prevent destructive behavior.
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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