Otterhound vs Icelandic Sheepdog Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Otter Dog or Friaar Dog?

Compare the Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Otter Dog or a Friaar Dog? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Otter Dog

Friaar Dog, Iceland Dog, Icelandic Spitz, Islandsk Farehond, Canis Islandicus, Íslenskur Fjárhundur

Weight

What is the average weight of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

92.5 pounds ( 42 kg )

25.0 pounds ( 11 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog

22.5 inches ( 57.2 cm )

17.5 inches ( 44.5 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

The Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds have an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Otterhounds or Icelandic Sheepdogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Otterhound nor Icelandic Sheepdog are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?

Amiable
Outright
Tempered
Boisterous

Agile
Cheerful
Alert
Energetic
Inquisitive

Shedding Level

Do Otterhounds shed more than Icelandic Sheepdogs, or which breed sheds more, Otterhounds or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Otterhounds are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Otterhounds aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog dog breeds?

England

Iceland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

griffon nivernais

nordic spitz

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

American Kennel Club
Australian National Kennel Council
Canadian Kennel Club
Continental Kennel Club
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds first developed?

1300s

874 - 930 AD

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Hound (AKC:1909)
Scenthound (UKC)

Herding (AKC:2010 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?

Hazel
Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

Cream
Brown
Black
White
Fawn
Blue
Gray

Brindle
Pied
Silver
Fawn
Black
Gray
Brown
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

The coat of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Wiry

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

An Otterhound can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

An Icelandic Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Otterhounds have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog are breeds of dogs that are known to have a higher frequency of health issues compared to other breeds. These issues can range from minor to serious, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential in order to identify and address any potential problems as early as possible.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Congenital Heart Defect

Patellar Luxation
Distichiasis
Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Elbow Dysplasia
Thrombopathia

Cataracts
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

Hip
Elbow
Blood
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Otterhounds and Icelandic Sheepdogs compare?

Otterhounds thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Icelandic Sheepdogs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Otterhound vs Icelandic Sheepdog social needs comparison

Otterhound has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Icelandic Sheepdog has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Otterhound vs Icelandic Sheepdog exercise need comparison.

Otterhounds need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Icelandic Sheepdogs need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Otterhounds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Icelandic Sheepdogs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

The Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Otterhounds or Icelandic Sheepdogs bark more/less frequently?

Otterhounds bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Icelandic Sheepdog dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog a better guard dog?

Otterhound dogs are not typically good guard dogs due to their lack of protective nature and weak territorial drive.

While Icelandic Sheepdog dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Otterhound vs Icelandic Sheepdog?

Roaming urge

Otterhound vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog entertained?

Fishing, Go to Beach, Swim

Sleeping, Kissing, Barking, Chasing runners, Cuddling, Eating

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Otterhounds or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Medium

Both Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog walk each week?

7 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Otterhound, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Icelandic Sheepdog, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Otterhounds or Icelandic Sheepdogs require more exercise?

45 minutes

In general most Otterhounds usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

60 minutes

In general most Icelandic Sheepdogs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Otterhounds or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Otterhounds require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

The Icelandic Sheepdog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?

Weekly

Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Otterhounds and Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog in cups?

3 cups

For an average 90-110 pound (41 - 50 kg) Otterhound feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.5 cups

For an average 20-30 pound (9 - 14 kg) Icelandic Sheepdog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of an Otterhound is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an Icelandic Sheepdog is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of an Otterhound is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an Icelandic Sheepdog is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Otterhounds vs Icelandic Sheepdogs

Otterhounds are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Icelandic Sheepdog has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog compare in sensitivity?

Otterhounds are adaptable and resilient, making them ideal for those seeking a less sensitive pet.

Icelandic Sheepdogs have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Otterhound vs Icelandic Sheepdog?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

The Otterhound is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Icelandic Sheepdogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Otterhounds or Icelandic Sheepdogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Otterhounds are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Icelandic Sheepdogs make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Cat Friendly

Do Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Otterhounds and Icelandic Sheepdogs are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

{Otterhounds and Icelandic Sheepdogs are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Otterhound or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Otterhounds are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog are known to be highly playful dogs. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting slightly older Otterhound and Icelandic Sheepdog for a mellower experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Otterhounds and Icelandic Sheepdogs compare?

Otterhounds are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.