Icelandic Sheepdog
VS
Shih Tzu
Icelandic Sheepdog vs Shih Tzu
Compare Icelandic Sheepdog and Shih Tzu 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
Icelandic Sheepdog
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
41 – 46 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
10 – 14 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 15 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
3/5
4/5
Energy level
4/5
2/5
Intelligence
4/5
2/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
2/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
1/5
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Characteristics
Icelandic Sheepdog
High energy
Super smart
Easy to train
Small
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a cheerful, medium spitz herder from Iceland, with prick ears, curled tail, and a thick weatherproof coat. Friendly, vocal, and people oriented, it thrives on companionship, regular exercise, training, and varied activities like herding and agility.
About Shih Tzu
Small, sturdy companion dog from Tibetan and Chinese palaces, 4.5–8 kg with a long, flowing coat and chrysanthemum-like face. Affectionate, cheerful, and confident, it suits many homes. Needs moderate exercise, intensive grooming, and patient, reward-based training.
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