Japanese Spitz
VS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Japanese Spitz vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Compare Japanese Spitz 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
Japanese Spitz
Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
29 – 38 cm
41 – 46 cm
Weight
5 – 7 kg
10 – 14 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 15 years
13 – 17 years
Child friendly
5/5
3/5
Energy level
5/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
3/5
Shedding
3/5
3/5
Barking level
4/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
2/5
Characteristics
Japanese Spitz
Great with kids
High energy
Easy to train
Tiny
Icelandic Sheepdog
High energy
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Japanese Spitz
The Japanese Spitz is a small to medium, people‑oriented companion with a pure white double coat that’s easy to maintain with regular brushing. Lively, intelligent, and trainable, it suits apartments with daily exercise. Naturally alert and vocal, it is usually friendly once introduced.
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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