Icelandic Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Icelandic Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonIcelandic Sheepdog is originated from Iceland but Caucasian Shepherd is originated from Russia. Icelandic Sheepdog may grow 30 cm / 11 inches shorter than Caucasian Shepherd. Icelandic Sheepdog may weigh 86 kg / 189 pounds lesser than Caucasian Shepherd. Both Icelandic Sheepdog and Caucasian Shepherd has almost same life span. Both Icelandic Sheepdog and Caucasian Shepherd has almost same litter size. Both Icelandic Sheepdog and Caucasian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance.

History

icelandic sheepdog - historyThere are quite a few different dog breeds that fall under the name of Spitz-type dogs, and in fact they have a number of similar characteristics, one of which is that they have some wolf-like features. They typically have the thick coat with undercoat and the erect, pointed ears and slanted eyes.

There is definitely a strong link between the Spitz type dogs and wild wolves. The tail too is feathery and can curl over the back of the dog.

The Icelandic Sheepdog, a native dog to Iceland, is a Spitz type dog which originates from the dogs brought to Iceland by the Vikings. The dogs have always been used to herd sheep, and they resemble dogs found in graves in Sweden and Denmark.

The dog at one time was facing extinction in the late 20th century, but in 1969, the Icelandic Dog Breeder Association was established to restore and preserve the breed. The Icelandic Sheepdog gained AKC recognition in June 2010.

caucasian shepherd - historyThis working dog is more than 2 000 years old, hailing from the Caucasus Mountains near the Georgian Republic, Russia.

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed, always having been used to guard livestock in the mountains. Some believe they came from domesticated wolves, while others believe their ancestry includes Mastiffs and other breeds.

It was in the 1960s that the dog was used in Germany for patrol along the Berlin Wall. This dog is also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka and he is large and powerful, always being ready to take on anyone who threatens him or the livestock he is guarding.

His origins can be traced far back and eventually the dog found its ways to the USA where dog clubs were formed.The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is one of the oldest Molosser breeds, and today they are mostly appreciated for being wonderful family companions and watchdogs.

Description

icelandic sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe Icelandic Sheepdog is a smallish to medium sized dog standing at 40 to 45cm in height and he can weigh anything between 9 and 14kg.

His double coat can be short or long, straight or wavy and in a mix of colors such as grey and white or tan and white, black, tan and white, cream or chocolate. Even though they come in a number of predominant colors, these colors are always accompanied by white markings.

He has a longish muzzle, much like the wolf, giving him an alert, foxy appearance. He has a muscular, rectangular body with strong, straight legs with dewclaws on both the front and hind legs.

Temperament:

Your social, energetic dog will require socialization and training which does him the world of good, turning him into a well-adjusted, obedient dog.

He is an intelligent dog, and training him won't be difficult as he is eager to please. These are social dogs which love being part of the family and they don't like being left outside day after day with little human intervention. He is a lively, confident breed, gentle and not at all aggressive.

caucasian shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Caucasian Shepherd is a large, impressive looking dog standing at between 64 – 75cm in height and weighing between 45 – 70 kg. He has an almost bear-like appearance. His coat can be shortish or even fairly long, and in different colors such as white, tan, brindle, grey and cream with a black mask.

The puppies are born black and then lighten as they grow up. He has a large head with the muzzle being smaller than the skull, narrowing slightly. The nose is black and the ears are set high and are floppy with dark eyes. The tail is set high and is long.

Temperament:

The Caucasian Shepherd is an intelligent breed but he must be properly trained and socialized as he can be stubborn and want to go his own way.

He is a balanced dog and he won’t deliberately hurt whom he regards as family, but he shows distrust towards strangers. While socialization and training relax and calm a dog, the Caucasian Shepherd isn’t regarded as the best dog to have with children around. This is because he comes from a lineage of guard dogs, bred to fight and guard.

He is a dog breed that will require a firm, strong owner and if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, the Caucasian can be difficult to manage and perhaps isn’t the best choice for a first-time dog owner.

Characteristics

icelandic sheepdog dog - characteristicsThe Icelandic Sheepdog is such a good all-round family pet. He is alert, intelligent, social, playful, loyal, loving and brave.

He is friendly too, getting on well with children and any pets you have in the home. He is essentially a working dog, so you shouldn’t think of owning him as a pet if your lifestyle is centered around the TV and the couch for the best part of the day.

This is an energetic dog who wants lots of action during the day. He is a dog that badly wants to be part of the family and in exchange for looking after him well, he’ll promise to be an exceptional pet.

caucasian shepherd dog - characteristicsLoyal, strong, and brave, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog does an excellent job protecting his human family. He is a territorial dog and in the past he has always been ready to take on wolves and bear to protect his sheep. He isn't the best choice for first time dog-owners and where there are small children in the home.

He will do well to be trained and socialized as he becomes an obedient, patient, gentle, loving pet that becomes an excellent companion and protector.

Health Problems

icelandic sheepdog puppies - health problemsYour pet will reach 12 to 14 years of age with good care and is regarded as a generally healthy dog breed. However, they can be prone to a few health conditions, and these include hip dysplasia and diabetes.

Diabetes:

Mercifully for your pet, diabetes is considered a manageable disorder. When your pet doesn’t produce insulin or can’t utilize it normally, his blood sugar levels rise, resulting in hyperglycemia.

If left untreated, your pet can land up with a host of complicated health problems. Diabetes can be classified as either Type 1 or Type II, with the more common form in dogs being Type 1.

caucasian shepherd puppies - health problemsLike all breeds there may be some health issues, even though the Caucasian Shepherd is generally a healthy dog. There are some common illnesses that every dog can get and which every responsible dog owner should be aware of -

Diarrhea:

One or two episodes of diarrhea isn’t an emergency, but ongoing diarrhea can lead to dehydration. If your dog is vomiting, he is lethargic and constantly emptying his bowels, see your vet if the diarrhea persists.

Parasites:

Parasites such as fleas and ticks and even internal parasites such as intestinal worms can drain the life from your pet. It is wise to find out about different parasites so that you can protect your dog. Find out what your vet’s treatment options are for parasites.

Caring The Pet

Diet:

icelandic sheepdog dogs - caringFeed your energetic Icelandic Sheepdog a diet which is appropriate for his age and activity level. Don't just feed him the best commercially manufactured dog food, but give him some cooked chicken, brown rice and vegetables mixed into his kibble as a tasty treat. Also, dogs are carnivores, so include some raw meat into his diet from time to time. Clean, cool water should always be available.

Grooming:

The Icelandic Sheepdog has a thick double coat, with the outer coat being longer and the hair being shiny and glossy. These dogs shed quite a bit with seasonal shedding too so twice-weekly brushing will be necessary to keep the fur free of loose hair. His nails should also be checked regularly and his teeth should be brushed a couple of times a week too.

Exercise:

Icelandic Sheepdogs are athletic, active dogs that require a lot of exercise to keep them in good physical shape.

He loves all kinds of games and outdoor activities, one of which will be going with you for a walk every day. He makes a wonderful companion for those people going on long hikes.

caucasian shepherd dogs - caringThe Caucasian Shepherd Dog has a thick double coat that will certainly require brushing twice a week. The coat comes in different lengths – short, medium and long. The hair is mostly long and the long tail is also feathery. The best way to groom your large, furry pet is to invest in some good grooming tools such as a good brush to keep your pet’s hair in tip-top condition.

His nails will need to be trimmed regularly, his ears will also need to be checked to avoid wax build-up and the accumulation of grime. This can lead to an ear infection. His teeth should be brushed 2 or 3 times a week with special dog toothbrush and toothpaste.

Exercise:

The Caucasian Shepherd isn’t going to do well in a small home with tiny garden in the city. He is a big dog that will require a large yard even though he is a fairly low-energy dog. He will be suited to a family that is active, that will take him on daily walks, hikes and include some ball games.

Diet:

You will need to change your Caucasian Shepherd Dog’s food as he goes through the different phases of his life, from puppy to adulthood. Speak to your veterinarian about a commercially produced dog food is you’re unable to give him home-made food. These foods are available in breed-specific and age-specific formulas.

Reputable breeders will also help you ensure that you know how to start feeding your puppy. Caucasian Shepherds are a large breed and apart from their kibble, you’ll want to include rice, vegetables and cooked chicken from time to time in his kibble and also include raw meat occasionally.

If you're unsure, ask your veterinarian or breeder about the best diet to ensure his longevity. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Molosser dogs
Origin:
Iceland
Russia
Height Male:
40 - 45 cm
15 - 18 inches
70 - 75 cm
27 - 30 inches
Height Female:
40 - 45 cm
15 - 18 inches
67 - 72 cm
26 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
9 - 14 kg
19 - 31 pounds
50 - 100 kg
110 - 221 pounds
Weight Female:
9 - 14 kg
19 - 31 pounds
45 - 90 kg
99 - 199 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Iceland Dog, Icelandic Spitz
Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog
Colors Available:
black, cream or chocolate., tan and white, Grey and white or tan and white
Fawn, brownish to dark grey, black - bi-colored
Coat:
Short or long, straight or wavy
Long haired, dense
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Perro de Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cane Corso - Breed Comparison
  4. Caucasian Shepherd vs Bakharwal Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cabecudo Boiadeiro - Breed Comparison
  6. Caucasian Shepherd vs Canis Panther - Breed Comparison
  7. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Castro Laboreiro - Breed Comparison
  8. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  9. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Molossus vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Danish Broholmer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Sage Koochee vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Cordoba Fighting Dog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Perro Cimarron vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Perro de Toro vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Gran Mastin de Borinquen vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Korean Mastiff vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Samoyed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Labradoodle vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Mixed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Great Pyrenees vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Old English Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Sakhalin Husky vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  26. Portuguese Water Dog vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  27. Puli vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  28. McNab vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  29. Porcelaine vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  30. Hokkaido vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  31. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  32. Pumi vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  33. Istrian Sheepdog vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  34. Jamthund vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  35. Karelian Bear Dog vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  36. Karelo-Finnish Laika vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  37. Kintamani vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  38. Osterreichischer Kurzhaariger Pinscher vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  39. Russo-European Laika vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  40. Ryukyu Inu vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  41. Seppala Siberian Sleddog vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  42. Serbian Mountain Hound vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  43. Shiba Inu vs Icelandic Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  44. Icelandic Sheepdog vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  45. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  46. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  47. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  48. Icelandic Sheepdog vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  49. Icelandic Sheepdog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds