Blue Spaniel vs. Icelandic Sheepdog: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Blue Spaniels or Icelandic Sheepdogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Blue Spaniel nor Icelandic Sheepdog are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?

Energetic
Protective
Alert
Intelligent
Outgoing
Responsive
Loyal
Outright
Tempered
Merry
Trusting
Joyful
Sociable
Aggressive

Agile
Cheerful
Alert
Energetic
Inquisitive

Shedding Level

Do Blue Spaniels shed more than Icelandic Sheepdogs, or which breed sheds more, Blue Spaniels or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

3 / 5

Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog?

2 / 5

Blue Spaniels aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

3 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

Australian Cattle Dog and Cocker Spaniel

nordic spitz

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds first developed?

Unknown

874 - 930 AD

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?

Hazel
Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

Blue
Black
White

Brindle
Pied
Silver
Fawn
Black
Gray
Brown
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog?

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog?

A Blue Spaniel can have a litter of 4-7 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Icelandic Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

Blue Spaniels are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

5 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

Blue Spaniels typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

2 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

PRA
Hip Dysplasia
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Patellar Luxation
Distichiasis
Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Deafness
Cataracts

Cataracts
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

Hearing
X-Rays
CT Scan
Ophthalmic Exam
Orthopedic
Arthroscopy
Urine and Blood Analysis
Brain Auditory Evoked Response (BAER)

Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Blue Spaniels and Icelandic Sheepdogs compare?

3 / 5

Blue Spaniels are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

4 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Blue Spaniel vs Icelandic Sheepdog social needs comparison

4 / 5

Blue Spaniel has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

5 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdog has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Blue Spaniel vs Icelandic Sheepdog exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

Blue Spaniels require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

3 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog?

2 / 5

Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Blue Spaniels or Icelandic Sheepdogs bark more/less frequently?

2 / 5

Blue Spaniel dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

5 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdog dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Blue Spaniel vs Icelandic Sheepdog?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Blue Spaniel vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

Prey Drive

Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog entertained?

Cuddle, Play, Pool, Car Travel, Swim, Tug-of-war, Fetch, Play with kids, Frisbee

Sleeping, Kissing, Barking, Chasing runners, Cuddling, Eating

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Blue Spaniels or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Blue Spaniels are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Blue Spaniel, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Icelandic Sheepdog, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Blue Spaniels or Icelandic Sheepdogs require more exercise?

In general most Blue Spaniels usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Icelandic Sheepdogs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Blue Spaniels or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

3 / 5

Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?

Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Blue Spaniels and Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog in cups?

For an average 28-45 pound (13 - 20 kg) Blue Spaniel feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 20-30 pound (9 - 14 kg) Icelandic Sheepdog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog?

The average cost of a Blue Spaniel is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

The average cost of an Icelandic Sheepdog is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog?

The average per month expenses of a Blue Spaniel is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an Icelandic Sheepdog is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Blue Spaniels vs Icelandic Sheepdogs

5 / 5

Blue Spaniel is highly intelligent and very trainable.

2 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdog has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

3 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Blue Spaniel vs Icelandic Sheepdog?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog?

3 / 5

Blue Spaniels are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

2 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Blue Spaniels or Icelandic Sheepdogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

The typical characteristics of Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog?

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Blue Spaniels and Icelandic Sheepdogs are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog?

4 / 5

Blue Spaniels are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

3 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Blue Spaniel or Icelandic Sheepdog?

4 / 5

Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog?

5 / 5

Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog are known to be highly playful dogs. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting slightly older Blue Spaniel and Icelandic Sheepdog for a mellower experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Blue Spaniels and Icelandic Sheepdogs compare?

4 / 5

Blue Spaniels are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

3 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.