Collie (Rough) vs Icelandic Sheepdog

Herding · Large vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Collie (Rough) is the larger breed at 60–75 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
  • The Collie (Rough) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCollie (Rough)Icelandic Sheepdog
Group
HerdingHerding
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
ScotlandIceland
Height (male)
24–26"17.5–18"
Height (female)
22–24"16.5–17"
Weight (male)
60–75 lbs25–30 lbs
Weight (female)
50–65 lbs25–30 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)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
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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Collie (Rough)

The Collie (Rough) is a devoted, graceful, proud Scottish herder — Lassie, the world's most famous fictional dog. Originally from Scotland, this large herding breed typically weighs 60–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as devoted, graceful, proud.

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.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Collie (Rough) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Collie eye anomaly
  • MDR1 gene mutation
  • Hip dysplasia

Icelandic Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders