English Bulldog vs Icelandic Sheepdog

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • English Bulldog is the larger breed at 50 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 English Bulldog sheds less.
  • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish BulldogIcelandic Sheepdog
Group
Non-SportingHerding
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
EnglandIceland
Height (male)
14–15"17.5–18"
Height (female)
14–15"16.5–17"
Weight (male)
50 lbs25–30 lbs
Weight (female)
40 lbs25–30 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
8–10 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)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.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)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
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is a calm, courageous, friendly English breed — wrinkly-faced, jowly mascot of universities and the Marines. Originally from England, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 50 lbs and lives 8–10 years. Breeders describe them as calm, courageous, 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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English Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin fold dermatitis

Icelandic Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders