Icelandic Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Icelandic Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonAustralian Shepherd is originated from United States but Icelandic Sheepdog is originated from Iceland. Australian Shepherd may grow 13 cm / 6 inches higher than Icelandic Sheepdog. Australian Shepherd may weigh 18 kg / 40 pounds more than Icelandic Sheepdog. Both Australian Shepherd and Icelandic Sheepdog has almost same life span. Both Australian Shepherd and Icelandic Sheepdog has almost same litter size. Both Australian Shepherd and Icelandic Sheepdog requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Working dog
undefined
United States
Iceland
Height Male:
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
40 - 45 cm
15 - 18 inches
Height Female:
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
40 - 45 cm
15 - 18 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
9 - 14 kg
19 - 31 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
9 - 14 kg
19 - 31 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 9
4 - 8
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Aussie
Iceland Dog, Icelandic Spitz
Colors Available:
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
black, cream or chocolate., tan and white, Grey and white or tan and white
Coat:
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Short or long, straight or wavy
Shedding:
Constant
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

australian shepherdThe Australian Shepherd, known fondly as ‘Aussies’, is actually an American breed, with the first official registry being in the 1950s. Basque Shepherds from Spain settled in Australia at the end of the 19th century, later moving to the United Stated with their dogs in tow. It is from these dogs that the breed originated. In the UK too, this breed of dog has many enthusiastic followers.

For many years, the Australian Shepherd has been recognized for their wonderful abilities as stock- or herding dogs, and today in Australia they continue to work as stock dogs and often take part in herding trials.

More recently, this working dog breed has been selectively bred to develop both Toy- and Miniature Aussies, and the American Stock Dog Registry actually recognizes 3 sizes today.The Australian Shepherd Club of America was also founded in 1957 to promote the breed.

icelandic sheepdogThere are quite a few different dog breeds that fall under the name of Spitz-type dogs, and in fact they have a number of similar characteristics, one of which is that they have some wolf-like features. They typically have the thick coat with undercoat and the erect, pointed ears and slanted eyes.

There is definitely a strong link between the Spitz type dogs and wild wolves. The tail too is feathery and can curl over the back of the dog.

The Icelandic Sheepdog, a native dog to Iceland, is a Spitz type dog which originates from the dogs brought to Iceland by the Vikings. The dogs have always been used to herd sheep, and they resemble dogs found in graves in Sweden and Denmark.

The dog at one time was facing extinction in the late 20th century, but in 1969, the Icelandic Dog Breeder Association was established to restore and preserve the breed. The Icelandic Sheepdog gained AKC recognition in June 2010.

Description

Coat

australian shepherd puppy - descriptionSimilar in appearance to the Border Collie, the Australian Shepherd is a medium sized dog and has a medium length coat which is straight to wavy with a weather resistant undercoat. The range of coat colours is amazing, and you’ll find blue, blue merle, black and red merle and all of these are with or without tan points. The Australian Shepherd is a drop-eared breed where prick ears are sometimes seen. Some Aussies are born with naturally bobbed tails while most have full, long tails.

Different Eye Colour Combinations

There is variety in the eye colour too, and they are often heterochromatic, which means that they can have two different coloured eyes or the one eye can even be bi-coloured. Most times the eyes are brown, but they can be blue too.

icelandic sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe Icelandic Sheepdog is a smallish to medium sized dog standing at 40 to 45cm in height and he can weigh anything between 9 and 14kg.

His double coat can be short or long, straight or wavy and in a mix of colors such as grey and white or tan and white, black, tan and white, cream or chocolate. Even though they come in a number of predominant colors, these colors are always accompanied by white markings.

He has a longish muzzle, much like the wolf, giving him an alert, foxy appearance. He has a muscular, rectangular body with strong, straight legs with dewclaws on both the front and hind legs.

Temperament:

Your social, energetic dog will require socialization and training which does him the world of good, turning him into a well-adjusted, obedient dog.

He is an intelligent dog, and training him won't be difficult as he is eager to please. These are social dogs which love being part of the family and they don't like being left outside day after day with little human intervention. He is a lively, confident breed, gentle and not at all aggressive.

Characteristics

australian shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, learning quickly. As a herding dog, he also has strong guarding instincts and will make a good watch dog. The dog has a balanced, even disposition, and even though he may show some reserve, he is certainly not a shy dog and isn’t aggressive.

He Craves Human Companionship

Your Aussie is a kind, loving, and devoted pet. He loves his human family and wants to spend lots of time with them. Don’t leave him without human companionship as he craves it and forms strong bonds with his family. Provide him with good care and with lots of fun and games and you’ve got an exceptional friend for life.

icelandic sheepdog dog - characteristicsThe Icelandic Sheepdog is such a good all-round family pet. He is alert, intelligent, social, playful, loyal, loving and brave.

He is friendly too, getting on well with children and any pets you have in the home. He is essentially a working dog, so you shouldn’t think of owning him as a pet if your lifestyle is centered around the TV and the couch for the best part of the day.

This is an energetic dog who wants lots of action during the day. He is a dog that badly wants to be part of the family and in exchange for looking after him well, he’ll promise to be an exceptional pet.

Health Problems

australian shepherd puppies - health problemsAussies are a healthy breed and won’t cost you a fortune at the vet. However, like every other breed, they are also prone to certain health conditions such as cancer. When choosing a puppy, always look for a good, reputable breeder who can show you health clearances.

We look at some common health ailments to be alert about

Hip Dysplasia

This is a dog ailment that can be inherited. It is where the femur doesn't fit properly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Also, as the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy an hereditary disorder where the seizures your dog gets can be treated and controlled.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans, commonly known as OCD is an orthopedic condition which comes about because of improper growth of cartilage in the joints. It can cause painful stiffening of the elbow joint for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that can finally lead to blindness. Reputable Aussie dog breeders have their dogs' eyes certified regularly by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Your Aussie Puppy Needs Vaccinations

Your newborn Australian Shepherd may well be strong and healthy, but he isn’t immune from life-threatening illnesses. Vaccinations are imperative for your Aussie puppy, with vets usually recommending that puppies be vaccinated for the first time from 6 to 8 weeks of age.

These vaccinations will include the 5-in-one and includes Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. Later on the puppy will get his first rabies shot and he will also require booster vaccinations.

icelandic sheepdog puppies - health problemsYour pet will reach 12 to 14 years of age with good care and is regarded as a generally healthy dog breed. However, they can be prone to a few health conditions, and these include hip dysplasia and diabetes.

Diabetes:

Mercifully for your pet, diabetes is considered a manageable disorder. When your pet doesn’t produce insulin or can’t utilize it normally, his blood sugar levels rise, resulting in hyperglycemia.

If left untreated, your pet can land up with a host of complicated health problems. Diabetes can be classified as either Type 1 or Type II, with the more common form in dogs being Type 1.

Caring The Pet

General Grooming

australian shepherd dogs - caringWith his medium length coat, the Australian Shepherd sheds. In fact this particular breed sheds his hair the entire year round, but you’ll notice that with the arrival of Spring, he sheds more as this is when he is losing his Winter coat. You will most certainly need to brush his coat at least 2x a week to get rid of all those tufts of hair and to also prevent matting.

Feeding

A puppy will need 4 bowls of vet-recommended food a day. How much your adult Australian Shepherd gets will depend on his age, size and activity levels.The quality of food you buy will make a difference as it will keep your Aussie in good shape. Remember to include raw or cooked meat into his diet once a week or so. For more on feeding your Aussie, speak to your vet. Always ensure a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Training and Socialization

The Australian Shepherd is a strong willed dog, used to playing the dominant role with the herding of livestock. He’ll need firm training and socialization if you want to make him an amicable family pet.

Like many herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are loyal to their family and don’t easily take to strangers. Aussies make awesome companions for families with kids who have been taught how to treat dogs and other pets with kindness and gentleness. Just like a dog needs socialization, a child needs to respect a sleeping, feeding dog and to leave him in peace.

Diet:

icelandic sheepdog dogs - caringFeed your energetic Icelandic Sheepdog a diet which is appropriate for his age and activity level. Don't just feed him the best commercially manufactured dog food, but give him some cooked chicken, brown rice and vegetables mixed into his kibble as a tasty treat. Also, dogs are carnivores, so include some raw meat into his diet from time to time. Clean, cool water should always be available.

Grooming:

The Icelandic Sheepdog has a thick double coat, with the outer coat being longer and the hair being shiny and glossy. These dogs shed quite a bit with seasonal shedding too so twice-weekly brushing will be necessary to keep the fur free of loose hair. His nails should also be checked regularly and his teeth should be brushed a couple of times a week too.

Exercise:

Icelandic Sheepdogs are athletic, active dogs that require a lot of exercise to keep them in good physical shape.

He loves all kinds of games and outdoor activities, one of which will be going with you for a walk every day. He makes a wonderful companion for those people going on long hikes.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Icelandic Sheepdog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Icelandic Sheepdog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Icelandic Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Icelandic Sheepdog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Icelandic Sheepdog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Icelandic Sheepdog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Australian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Australian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Australian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Australian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Australian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Australian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Australian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Australian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Australian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Australian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Australian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Australian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Australian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Australian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Australian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Australian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Australian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Australian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Australian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Australian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Australian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Australian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Australian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Australian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Australian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison