Bedlington Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Terrier · Small vs Herding · Medium
Bedlington TerrierSmall
A spirited, demonstrative, mild lamb-shaped terrier — looks like a sheep, fights like a tiger.
Weight: 17–23 lbsLifespan: 11–16 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
- • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 17–23 lbs for the Bedlington Terrier.
- • The Bedlington Terrier typically lives longer (11–16 years).
- • The Bedlington Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Bedlington Terrier | Icelandic Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Herding |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | England | Iceland |
Height (male) | 16–17.5" | 17.5–18" |
Height (female) | 15–16.5" | 16.5–17" |
Weight (male) | 17–23 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Weight (female) | 17–23 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–16 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a spirited, demonstrative, mild lamb-shaped terrier — looks like a sheep, fights like a tiger. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–23 lbs and lives 11–16 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, demonstrative, mild.
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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Bedlington Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Copper toxicosis
- • Eye disorders
- • Patellar luxation
Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders