Cairn Terrier
VS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Cairn Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Compare Cairn Terrier 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
Cairn Terrier
Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
41 – 46 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
10 – 14 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
13 – 17 years
Child friendly
5/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
3/5
Shedding
1/5
3/5
Barking level
4/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
2/5
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Characteristics
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Icelandic Sheepdog
High energy
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Cairn Terrier
Small, sturdy Scottish terrier bred to hunt among rocky cairns. Around 28–31 cm tall with a harsh, weatherproof double coat needing regular stripping and brushing. Bold, curious, affectionate, and vocal; enjoys daily walks, mental stimulation, and active family life. Generally hardy and long-lived.
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.
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