Cocker Spaniel vs Icelandic Sheepdog

Sporting · Small vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Cocker Spaniel.
  • The Icelandic Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Cocker Spaniel sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCocker SpanielIcelandic Sheepdog
Group
SportingHerding
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
USAIceland
Height (male)
14.5–15.5"17.5–18"
Height (female)
13.5–14.5"16.5–17"
Weight (male)
25–30 lbs25–30 lbs
Weight (female)
20–25 lbs25–30 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–14 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.
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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is a gentle, smart, happy gundog — Disney's Lady, with the gorgeous flowing coat and merry tail. Originally from USA, this small sporting breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, smart, happy.

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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Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease

Icelandic Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders