Icelandic Sheepdog vs Irish Terrier
Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Medium
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
Irish TerrierMedium
A bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner.
Weight: 27 lbsLifespan: 13–15 years
Quick take
- • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
- • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
- • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Icelandic Sheepdog | Irish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | Iceland | Ireland |
Height (male) | 17.5–18" | 18" |
Height (female) | 16.5–17" | 18" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 27 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–30 lbs | 25 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 13–15 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. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | 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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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.
About the Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is a bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 27 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as bold, dashing, tenderhearted.
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Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
Irish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Hyperkeratosis
- • Eye disorders