Icelandic Sheepdog vs Smooth Fox Terrier
Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Small
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
Smooth Fox TerrierSmall
A friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox.
Weight: 17–19 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Icelandic Sheepdog | Smooth Fox Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Iceland | England |
Height (male) | 17.5–18" | 15" |
Height (female) | 16.5–17" | 15" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 17–19 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–30 lbs | 15–17 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | 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) | 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) | 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 | short |
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 Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.
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Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
Smooth Fox Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness