Icelandic SheepdogVSNorwegian Buhund
The Icelandic Sheepdog and the Norwegian Buhund are both ancient Scandinavian herding spitz breeds with thick double coats, erect ears, and curled tails — extremely similar in appearance and heritage. Both are cheerful, energetic, and affectionate, but they are distinct breeds with slightly different traits. Here is a complete comparison of these two rare Nordic herding dogs.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Icelandic Sheepdog | Norwegian Buhund |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 25–30 lbs, 16.5–18 in | 26–40 lbs, 16–18.5 in |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Trainability | Very Good | Very Good |
| Shedding | Heavy (seasonal) | Heavy (seasonal) |
| Good With Kids | ✓Excellent | Very Good |
| Good With Other Dogs | Very Good | Very Good |
| Barking | High | ✓Moderate to High |
| Life Expectancy | 12–14 years | ✓13–15 years |
| Apartment Living | Fair (vocal) | Fair (vocal) |
| Price Range | ✓$1,000–$2,500 | $1,200–$2,500 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Icelandic Sheepdog if…
Choose an Icelandic Sheepdog if you want the most people-friendly, enthusiastic, and openly affectionate of the two Scandinavian herding breeds who is outstanding with children.
Choose a Norwegian Buhund if…
Choose a Norwegian Buhund if you want a slightly calmer, longer-lived Scandinavian herding dog with somewhat lower barking intensity and strong herding or agility potential.
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How are Icelandic Sheepdogs and Norwegian Buhunds different?
Despite their very similar appearance, the two breeds have distinct origins and subtle temperament differences. Icelandic Sheepdogs came to Iceland with Norse settlers over 1,000 years ago and developed in isolation, making them uniquely friendly and people-oriented — they are known for their enthusiasm for human interaction. Norwegian Buhunds remained on the Norwegian mainland and were used for both herding and guarding farms, giving them a slightly more independent temperament.
Are these breeds good for first-time owners?
Both breeds are more manageable than many other spitz breeds for first-time owners due to their eager-to-please personalities and trainability. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are not as stubbornly independent as breeds like Shiba Inus or Chow Chows. However, both require significant daily exercise and may develop problem behaviors without adequate stimulation. Their heavy shedding can also surprise unprepared first-time owners.
How rare are these breeds?
Both breeds are quite rare outside their native Scandinavian countries. The Icelandic Sheepdog ranks outside the top 150 in AKC registrations, and the Norwegian Buhund is even rarer. Finding reputable breeders in North America may require significant research and possibly importing from Europe. Both breeds have dedicated enthusiast communities despite their small numbers.
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