Italian-Bichon vs. Alaskan Shepherd: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Italian-Bichons or Alaskan Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Italian-Bichons are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Alaskan Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd dogs?

Playful
Agile
Sensitive
Intelligent
Affectionate
Gentle
Companionable
Cheerful
Athletic
Mischievous

Curious
Playful
Dignified
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Affectionate
Obedient
Loyal
Devoted
Watchful

Shedding Level

Do Italian-Bichons shed more than Alaskan Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Italian-Bichons or Alaskan Shepherds?

2 / 5

Italian-Bichons are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

5 / 5

Alaskan Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd breeds?

Bichon Frise and Italian Greyhound

Alaskan Malamute, German Shepherd

Date of Birth

When were Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd breeds first developed?

2000's

Early 1900s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd dogs?

Brown

Blue
Hazel
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd breeds?

Cream
Fawn
Sable
White

Cream
Brown
Black
White
Sable
Silver
Blue
Red
Gray

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd breeds?

1 / 5

Italian-Bichons have short coats.

3 / 5

Alaskan Shepherds have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd?

1 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd?

An Italian-Bichon can have a litter of 2-5 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.

An Alaskan Shepherd can have a litter of 4-10 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

5 / 5

Italian-Bichons are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Alaskan Shepherds are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Alaskan Shepherds typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd breeds?

Urolithiasis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Canine Hip Dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia (Chd)
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd?

Cataracts
Shaker Dog Syndrome

Cataract
Panosteitis
Glaucoma
Pannus
Perianal Fistulas
Skin Problems
Hemophilia
Diabetes
Von Willebrand's Disease
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd breeds?

Urinalysis
Blood Count
Ophthalmologic Examination
Blood Chemistry

Cardiac
Hip
Blood
Dna For Vwd
Chd Clear Rating
Eye Examination
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Full Body Physical Examination

Social Needs

Italian-Bichon vs Alaskan Shepherd social needs comparison

4 / 5

Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd?

3 / 5

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

1 / 5

Alaskan Shepherds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Italian-Bichon vs Alaskan Shepherd?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Italian-Bichon vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Italian-Bichons or Alaskan Shepherds?

Italian-Bichons 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.

Alaskan Shepherds 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.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Italian-Bichon, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Alaskan Shepherd, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Italian-Bichons or Alaskan Shepherds require more exercise?

In general most Italian-Bichons 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.

In general most Alaskan Shepherds 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, Italian-Bichons or Alaskan Shepherds?

3 / 5

Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd dogs?

Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd 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 Italian-Bichons and Alaskan Shepherds?

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd in cups?

For an average 12-18 pound (5 - 8 kg) Italian-Bichon 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.

For an average 65-85 pound (29 - 39 kg) Alaskan Shepherd 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, Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd?

The average cost of an Italian-Bichon is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

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

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd?

The average per month expenses of an Italian-Bichon 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.

The average per month expenses of an Alaskan Shepherd 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

These dog breeds are particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, unfamiliar people, or animals. This dog breed is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd?

4 / 5

The Italian-Bichon is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

2 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Italian-Bichons or Alaskan Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

3 / 5

Italian-Bichons have an average level of friendliness towards children.

5 / 5

Alaskan Shepherds 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 - Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

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

2 / 5

Alaskan Shepherds are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd?

4 / 5

Italian-Bichons and Alaskan Shepherds are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Italian-Bichon or Alaskan Shepherd?

4 / 5

Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd?

4 / 5

Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Italian-Bichon and Alaskan Shepherd is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Italian-Bichons and Alaskan Shepherds compare?

3 / 5

Italian-Bichons are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

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