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Shih-Mo vs Icelandic Sheepdog Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Shih-Mo or Friaar Dog?

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

Other names

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

Weight

What is the average weight of Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog?
21.5 pounds ( 10 kg )
25.0 pounds ( 11 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog
16.5 inches ( 41.9 cm )
17.5 inches ( 44.5 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih-Mos or Icelandic Sheepdogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Shih-Mo 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 Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?
Active
Playful
Independent
Happy
Energetic
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle

Agile
Cheerful
Alert
Energetic
Inquisitive

Shedding Level

Do Shih-Mos shed more than Icelandic Sheepdogs, or which breed sheds more, Shih-Mos or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Shih-Mo 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 Shih-Mo 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 Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Shih-Mos 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.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?
American Eskimo, Shih Tzu

nordic spitz

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog?
ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

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 Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds first developed?
Unknown

874 - 930 AD

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog?
Black

Black
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?

Shih-Mos are known for their coat length.

Icelandic Sheepdogs have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog?

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Shih-Mo can have a litter of 4-6 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

Shih-Mos are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

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

Health Issues

Between Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Shih-Mo 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 Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?
Liver Disease
Hip Dysplasia
Eye Problems
Kidney Problems
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
Pateller Luxation
Bladder Stones and Infections

Patellar Luxation
Distichiasis
Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog?
Ear Infections
Allergies
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Cataracts
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds?
Dental Examination
Eye examination
Chest X-rays
Clinical Exam

Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Shih-Mos and Icelandic Sheepdogs compare?

Shih-Mos are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

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

Social Needs

Shih-Mo vs Icelandic Sheepdog social needs comparison

Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Shih-Mo vs Icelandic Sheepdog exercise need comparison.

The Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog breeds require a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pets and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Shih-Mos have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

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

Tendency to Bark

Do Shih-Mos or Icelandic Sheepdogs bark more/less frequently?

Shih-Mos 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.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Shih-Mo vs Icelandic Sheepdog?

Roaming urge

Shih-Mo vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog entertained?
Going for walks, Going to petco

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Shih-Mos or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Medium

Both Shih-Mo 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 Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog walk each week?

5 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shih-Mo, it's at least 5 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 Shih-Mos or Icelandic Sheepdogs require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Shih-Mos or Icelandic Sheepdogs?

Shih-Mos 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 Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog dogs?

Daily

Ideally, Shih-Mo should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Weekly

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 Shih-Mos and Icelandic Sheepdogs?
Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog in cups?

1 cups

For an average 18-25 pound (8 - 11 kg) Shih-Mo 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, Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog?

$1.30 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Shih-Mo 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, Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog?

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Shih-Mo 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: Shih-Mos vs Icelandic Sheepdogs

Shih-Mos 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 Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

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

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Shih-Mo vs Icelandic Sheepdog?

Apartment Friendly

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

Shih-Mos make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

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

Child Friendly

Do Shih-Mos or Icelandic Sheepdogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Shih-Mos have an average level of friendliness towards children.

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 - Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Cat Friendly

Do Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Shih-Mos are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

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: Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Shih-Mos are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

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

Pet friendly

How do Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Shih-Mo or Icelandic Sheepdog?

Shih-Mos 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 Shih-Mo and Icelandic Sheepdog?

Shih-Mos are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Shih-Mos and Icelandic Sheepdogs compare?

Shih-Mos 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.

Common match-ups