Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
99% Compatible
Energy Level
Welsh Springer Spaniel: Energetic0.8
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Welsh Springer Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Welsh Springer Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Welsh Springer Spaniel5/5
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Welsh Springer Spaniel4/5
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Good with Strangers
Welsh Springer Spaniel1/5
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure issue
Entropion: Inward rolling of eyelids
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance risks
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
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Trainable
Athletic
Affectionate
Cons
Needs regular exercise
Regular grooming required
Can be reserved with strangers
Moderate shedding
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
Welsh Springer Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive red and white coat pattern has remained unchanged for centuries in Welsh hunting circles.
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Heritage & Purpose
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in Wales during the 1800s as skilled hunting companions, these spaniels excelled at flushing and retrieving game in challenging Welsh 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
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Weekly grooming sessions needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise routine. Regular eye checks and hip evaluations recommended for preventive care.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
Shedding
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