Bullmastiff vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Working · Large vs Herding · Medium
BullmastiffLarge
An affectionate, loyal, brave gamekeeper's night dog — Mastiff-Bulldog cross bred to subdue poachers.
Weight: 110–130 lbsLifespan: 7–9 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
- • Bullmastiff is the larger breed at 110–130 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Bullmastiff sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Bullmastiff | Icelandic Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Herding |
Size | Large | Medium |
Origin | England | Iceland |
Height (male) | 25–27" | 17.5–18" |
Height (female) | 24–26" | 16.5–17" |
Weight (male) | 110–130 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Weight (female) | 100–120 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 7–9 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very High (5/5) | 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 | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is an affectionate, loyal, brave gamekeeper's night dog — Mastiff-Bulldog cross bred to subdue poachers. Originally from England, this large working breed typically weighs 110–130 lbs and lives 7–9 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, brave.
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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Bullmastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Cancer
- • Heart problems
Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders