Icelandic Sheepdog vs Saluki
Herding · Medium vs Hound · Large
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
SalukiLarge
A graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs.
Weight: 40–65 lbsLifespan: 10–17 years
Quick take
- • Saluki is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
- • The Saluki typically lives longer (10–17 years).
- • The Saluki sheds less.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Icelandic Sheepdog | Saluki |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Hound |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | Iceland | Egypt |
Height (male) | 17.5–18" | 23–28" |
Height (female) | 16.5–17" | 23–28" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 40–65 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–30 lbs | 40–65 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 10–17 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) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | medium |
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 Saluki
The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.
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Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
Saluki health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer
- • Anesthesia sensitivity