Alaskan Malamute vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Working · Large vs Herding · Medium
Alaskan MalamuteLarge
An affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy.
Weight: 85 lbsLifespan: 10–14 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
- • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog sheds less.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Alaskan Malamute | Icelandic Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Herding |
Size | Large | Medium |
Origin | USA | Iceland |
Height (male) | 25" | 17.5–18" |
Height (female) | 23" | 16.5–17" |
Weight (male) | 85 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Weight (female) | 75 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | 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 | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, playful.
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.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Alaskan Malamute health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Bloat
Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders