IDOG vs VYM
ALPS International Sector Dividend Dogs ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. IDOG delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IDOG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $539M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.54% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +15.40% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.19% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.54% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.05% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ALPS Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 27, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IDOG vs VYM Performance
ALPS International Sector Dividend Dogs ETF (IDOG) is a ETF from ALPS Advisors and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IDOG returned +29.19% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, IDOG is up 15.40% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, IDOG compounded at +21.54% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +14.05% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +6.39%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IDOG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.5% compared with 14.6% for VYM. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -46.9% for IDOG and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IDOG charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IDOG currently yields 4.54% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IDOG and VYM share 0 holdings out of 608 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IDOG or VYM?
IDOG has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IDOG or VYM?
Over the past year IDOG returned +29.19% vs +25.03% for VYM, so IDOG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), IDOG annualized +6.39% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IDOG or VYM?
IDOG has been the more volatile fund at 15.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IDOG -46.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IDOG and VYM?
IDOG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IDOG and VYM?
IDOG and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 608 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IDOG or VYM?
IDOG yields 4.54% while VYM yields 2.86%, so IDOG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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