Alaskan Malamute
VS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Alaskan Malamute vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Compare Alaskan Malamute and Icelandic Sheepdog side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Alaskan Malamute
Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
58 – 64 cm
41 – 46 cm
Weight
33 – 39 kg
10 – 14 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 12 years
13 – 17 years
Child friendly
3/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
4/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
3/5
Shedding
3/5
3/5
Barking level
3/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
4/5
2/5
Sponsored Ad
Characteristics
Alaskan Malamute
Super smart
Protective
Large
Icelandic Sheepdog
High energy
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a large, powerful Arctic sled dog bred by the Mahlemut Inuit to pull heavy loads. It has a dense double coat that sheds heavily, a friendly, social nature, strong prey and working drive, high exercise needs, and can be independent and challenging to train.
About Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland’s only native spitz‑type herder, medium‑small, sturdy, and agile with a curled tail and thick double coat in varied colors. Cheerful, social, and vocal, it thrives on daily exercise, close family involvement, gentle training, and regular grooming.
Similar breeds
View more
-fullscreen.jpg)