Afghan Hound vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Hound · Large vs Herding · Medium
Afghan HoundLarge
An aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat.
Weight: 60 lbsLifespan: 12–18 years
Icelandic SheepdogMedium
A friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings.
Weight: 25–30 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
- • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Afghan Hound sheds less.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Afghan Hound | Icelandic Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Herding |
Size | Large | Medium |
Origin | Afghanistan | Iceland |
Height (male) | 27" | 17.5–18" |
Height (female) | 25" | 16.5–17" |
Weight (male) | 60 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Weight (female) | 50 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–18 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.
About the Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings. Originally from Iceland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, hardy, cheerful.
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Afghan Hound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders