Dachshund vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Hound · Small vs Herding · Medium
DachshundSmall
A spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'.
Weight: 16–32 lbsLifespan: 12–16 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
- • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 16–32 lbs for the Dachshund.
- • The Dachshund typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Dachshund sheds less.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Dachshund | Icelandic Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Herding |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Germany | Iceland |
Height (male) | 8–9" | 17.5–18" |
Height (female) | 8–9" | 16.5–17" |
Weight (male) | 16–32 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Weight (female) | 16–32 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–16 years | 12–14 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. | Very High (5/5) | 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 | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Dachshund
The Dachshund is a spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'. Originally from Germany, this small hound breed typically weighs 16–32 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, curious, friendly.
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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Dachshund health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • IVDD (back problems)
- • Obesity
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders