VS

Parson Russell Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Parson or Friaar Dog?

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

Other names

Jack Russell Terrier, Parson, Parson Jack Russell Terrier
Friaar Dog, Iceland Dog, Icelandic Spitz, Islandsk Farehond, Canis Islandicus, Íslenskur Fjárhundur

Weight

What is the average weight of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog?
15.0 pounds ( 7 kg )
25.0 pounds ( 11 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog
13.5 inches ( 34.3 cm )
17.5 inches ( 44.5 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Parson Russell Terrier has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.

Icelandic Sheepdog has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Parson Russell Terriers or Icelandic Sheepdogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Parson Russell Terrier 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 Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?
Energetic
Eager
Intelligent
Bold
Happy
Obedient

Agile
Cheerful
Alert
Energetic
Inquisitive

Shedding Level

Do Parson Russell Terriers shed more than Icelandic Sheepdogs, or which breed sheds more, Parson Russell Terriers or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

The Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

What is the origin of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog dog breeds?
England

Iceland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?
Jack Russell Terrier

nordic spitz

Date of Birth

When were Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds first developed?
1900s

874 - 930 AD

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog?
Terrier (AKC:1997 & UKC)

Herding (AKC:2010 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog?
Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?
Pied
White

Brindle
Pied
Silver
Fawn
Black
Gray
Brown
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

Parson Russell Terriers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Icelandic Sheepdogs have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog?
Wiry

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog?

13-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Parson Russell Terrier can have a litter of 13-15 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.

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

Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Parson Russell Terrier breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?
Cerebellar Ataxia

Patellar Luxation
Distichiasis
Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog?
Patellar Luxation
Myasthenia Gravis
Eye Conditions (Cataracts, Lens Luxation)

Cataracts
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?
BAER Testing
Neurological Examination
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Eye and Ear Examination

Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Parson Russell Terriers and Icelandic Sheepdogs compare?

Parson Russell Terriers 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

Parson Russell Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog social needs comparison

Parson Russell Terrier 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

Parson Russell Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog exercise need comparison.

Parson Russell Terriers 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: Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Parson Russell Terriers 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, Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Parson Russell Terrier has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

Icelandic Sheepdog minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Parson Russell Terriers or Icelandic Sheepdogs bark more/less frequently?

Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog a better guard dog?

Parson Russell Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

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: Parson Russell Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog?

Roaming urge

Parson Russell Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Parson Russell Terriers or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

High

Parson Russell Terriers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Icelandic Sheepdogs are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog walk each week?

14 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Parson Russell Terrier, it's at least 14 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 Parson Russell Terriers or Icelandic Sheepdogs require more exercise?

75 minutes

In general most Parson Russell Terriers usually need at least 75 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, Parson Russell Terriers or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

The Parson Russell Terrier has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

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

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?

Weekly

Parson Russell Terrier 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 Parson Russell Terriers and Icelandic Sheepdogs?
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog in cups?

1 cups

For an average 13-17 pound (6 - 8 kg) Parson Russell Terrier feed 1 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, Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

$1.30 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Parson Russell Terrier is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 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, Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Parson Russell Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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: Parson Russell Terriers vs Icelandic Sheepdogs

Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog have below-average obedience intelligence compared to other breeds. However, calling them "dumb dogs" is unjust. While Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog lack obedience and working intelligence, they compensate for it with their remarkable ability to comprehend human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog compare in sensitivity?

Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Parson Russell Terrier vs Icelandic Sheepdog?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Parson Russell Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

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

Child Friendly

Do Parson Russell Terriers or Icelandic Sheepdogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Parson Russell Terriers 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 - Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Cat Friendly

Do Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Parson Russell Terriers are not cat friendly.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Parson Russell Terriers are not dog-friendly.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Parson Russell Terrier or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Parson Russell Terriers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog?

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Parson Russell Terriers and Icelandic Sheepdogs compare?

Parson Russell Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups