Icelandic Sheepdog vs. West Highland White Terrier: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

3 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdog has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Icelandic Sheepdogs or West Highland White Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Icelandic Sheepdog is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, West Highland White Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Agile
Cheerful
Alert
Energetic
Inquisitive

Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Shedding Level

Do Icelandic Sheepdogs shed more than West Highland White Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Icelandic Sheepdogs or West Highland White Terriers?

3 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

1 / 5

West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

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The Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

What is the origin of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier dog breeds?

Iceland

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

nordic spitz

scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier?

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

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier breeds first developed?

874 - 930 AD

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier?

Herding (AKC:2010 & UKC)

Terrier (AKC:1908)(UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Brindle
Pied
Silver
Fawn
Black
Gray
Brown
Cream

White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier?

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.

A West Highland White Terrier can have a litter of 12-16 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

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

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.

5 / 5

The West Highland White Terrier breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Distichiasis
Hip Dysplasia

Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier?

Cataracts
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism

Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Icelandic Sheepdogs and West Highland White Terriers compare?

4 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier breeds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, these breeds may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

Icelandic Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier social needs comparison

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Icelandic Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

2 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier 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.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

1 / 5

The Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Icelandic Sheepdogs or West Highland White Terriers bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier a better guard dog?

3 / 5

While Icelandic Sheepdog dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

5 / 5

West Highland White Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Icelandic Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Icelandic Sheepdog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier entertained?

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

Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Icelandic Sheepdogs or West Highland White Terriers?

Both Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

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2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier walk each week?

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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For West Highland White Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Icelandic Sheepdogs or West Highland White Terriers require more exercise?

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.

In general most West Highland White Terriers usually need at least 30 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, Icelandic Sheepdogs or West Highland White Terriers?

3 / 5

The Icelandic Sheepdog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier 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 Icelandic Sheepdogs and West Highland White Terriers?

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier in cups?

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.

For an average 15-21 pound (7 - 10 kg) West Highland White Terrier feed 1.8 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, Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

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

The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

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.

The average per month expenses of a West Highland White Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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: Icelandic Sheepdogs vs West Highland White Terriers

2 / 5

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

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier compare in sensitivity?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Icelandic Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

2 / 5

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

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Icelandic Sheepdogs or West Highland White Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdogs and West Highland White Terriers 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: Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Icelandic Sheepdog or West Highland White Terrier?

4 / 5

Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier 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 Icelandic Sheepdog and West Highland White Terrier?

5 / 5

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Icelandic Sheepdogs and West Highland White Terriers compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.