Shiba Inu
VS
Icelandic Sheepdog
Shiba Inu vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Compare Shiba Inu 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
Shiba Inu
Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
36 – 42 cm
41 – 46 cm
Weight
7 – 11 kg
10 – 14 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 15 years
13 – 17 years
Child friendly
3/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
2/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
3/5
Shedding
5/5
3/5
Barking level
3/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
2/5
Characteristics
Shiba Inu
Stubborn
Small
Icelandic Sheepdog
High energy
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Shiba Inu
Ancient Japanese spitz-type hunting dog, small yet muscular with foxlike face, curled tail and plush double coat in red, black and tan or sesame with urajiro. Independent, catlike, loyal but reserved, strong-willed, high prey drive, needs early socialisation, firm positive training and regular exercise.
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
More breeds
