Bloodhound vs Icelandic Sheepdog

Hound · Large vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Bloodhound is the larger breed at 90–110 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
  • The Icelandic Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Bloodhound sheds less.
  • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBloodhoundIcelandic Sheepdog
Group
HoundHerding
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumIceland
Height (male)
25–27"17.5–18"
Height (female)
23–25"16.5–17"
Weight (male)
90–110 lbs25–30 lbs
Weight (female)
80–100 lbs25–30 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–14 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.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is a friendly, independent, inquisitive scenthound — the world's premier nose, used in police tracking. Originally from Belgium, this large hound breed typically weighs 90–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, inquisitive.

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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Bloodhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections

Icelandic Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders