Icelandic Sheepdog vs Papillon
Herding · Medium vs Toy · Toy
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
PapillonToy
A friendly, alert, happy butterfly-eared toy — the most trainable toy breed, fixture in agility podiums.
Weight: 5–10 lbsLifespan: 14–16 years
Quick take
- • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 5–10 lbs for the Papillon.
- • The Papillon typically lives longer (14–16 years).
- • The Papillon sheds less.
- • The Papillon is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Icelandic Sheepdog | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Toy |
Size | Medium | Toy |
Origin | Iceland | France |
Height (male) | 17.5–18" | 8–11" |
Height (female) | 16.5–17" | 8–11" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 5–10 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–30 lbs | 5–10 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 14–16 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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 Papillon
The Papillon is a friendly, alert, happy butterfly-eared toy — the most trainable toy breed, fixture in agility podiums. Originally from France, this toy toy breed typically weighs 5–10 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, alert, happy.
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Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
Papillon health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Dental issues
- • Progressive retinal atrophy