Icelandic Sheepdog vs Miniature Bull Terrier

Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 18–28 lbs for the Miniature Bull Terrier.
  • The Icelandic Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Miniature Bull Terrier sheds less.
  • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIcelandic SheepdogMiniature Bull Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
IcelandEngland
Height (male)
17.5–18"10–14"
Height (female)
16.5–17"10–14"
Weight (male)
25–30 lbs18–28 lbs
Weight (female)
25–30 lbs18–28 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Miniature Bull Terrier

The Miniature Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous mini version of the Bull Terrier — same egg-head, smaller package. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 18–28 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.

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Icelandic Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders

Miniature Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart issues
  • Skin problems