Icelandic Sheepdog vs Keeshond
Herding · Medium vs Non-Sporting · 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
KeeshondMedium
A friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face.
Weight: 35–45 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Keeshond is the larger breed at 35–45 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
- • The Keeshond typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Icelandic Sheepdog | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Non-Sporting |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | Iceland | Netherlands |
Height (male) | 17.5–18" | 18" |
Height (female) | 16.5–17" | 17" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 35–45 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–30 lbs | 35–45 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 12–15 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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | 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 | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Keeshond
The Keeshond is a friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face. Originally from Netherlands, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lively, outgoing.
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Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
Keeshond health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues
- • Epilepsy