Icelandic Sheepdog vs Puli
Herding · Medium vs Herding · 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
PuliMedium
A loyal, smart, energetic Hungarian sheepdog with corded dreadlock coat — agile and acrobatic.
Weight: 25–35 lbsLifespan: 10–15 years
Quick take
- • Puli is the larger breed at 25–35 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Puli sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Icelandic Sheepdog | Puli |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Herding |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | Iceland | Hungary |
Height (male) | 17.5–18" | 17" |
Height (female) | 16.5–17" | 16" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 25–35 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–30 lbs | 25–35 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 10–15 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) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | 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 | long | long |
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 Puli
The Puli is a loyal, smart, energetic Hungarian sheepdog with corded dreadlock coat — agile and acrobatic. Originally from Hungary, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–35 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, smart, energetic.
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Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
Puli health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Hearing problems