Chiweenie vs Icelandic Sheepdog

Miscellaneous · Toy vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 5–12 lbs for the Chiweenie.
  • The Chiweenie typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Chiweenie sheds less.
  • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChiweenieIcelandic Sheepdog
Group
MiscellaneousHerding
Size
ToyMedium
Origin
USAIceland
Height (male)
6–10"17.5–18"
Height (female)
6–10"16.5–17"
Weight (male)
5–12 lbs25–30 lbs
Weight (female)
5–12 lbs25–30 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–16 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.
Moderate (3/5)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 Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Chiweenie

The Chiweenie is a spirited, devoted, big-personality Chihuahua × Dachshund hybrid — toy-sized 'mexican hot dog'. Originally from USA, this toy miscellaneous breed typically weighs 5–12 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, devoted, lively.

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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Chiweenie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Dental issues

Icelandic Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders