Is ALPS International Sector Dividend Dogs ETF (IDOG) a Strong ETF Right Now?

Core Viewpoint - The ALPS International Sector Dividend Dogs ETF (IDOG) is a smart beta ETF launched to provide broad exposure to the Foreign Large Value ETF category, with a focus on high-yield securities [1][5]. Fund Overview - IDOG was launched on June 28, 2013, and is designed to match the performance of the S-Network International Sector Dividend Dogs Index, which identifies five high-yield securities in each of the ten Global Industry Classification Standard sectors [1][5]. - The fund is sponsored by Alps and has accumulated over $355.3 million in assets, categorizing it as an average-sized ETF in its segment [5]. Cost Structure - IDOG has an annual operating expense ratio of 0.50%, which is competitive with most peer products in the Foreign Large Value ETF space [6]. - The fund's 12-month trailing dividend yield is reported at 4.19% [6]. Holdings and Sector Exposure - The fund's top holdings include Neste Oyj (2.41% of total assets), Singapore Telecommunications Ltd., and Enel Spa, with the top 10 holdings accounting for approximately 22.48% of total assets [7][8]. - IDOG offers diversified exposure, minimizing single stock risk, and discloses its holdings daily [7]. Performance Metrics - Year-to-date, IDOG has increased by approximately 20.86%, and it has risen about 15.87% over the last 12 months as of July 21, 2025 [9]. - The fund has traded between $28.25 and $34.63 in the past 52 weeks, with a beta of 0.71 and a standard deviation of 15.74% over the trailing three-year period, indicating a medium risk profile [9][10]. Alternatives - IDOG may not be suitable for investors seeking to outperform the Foreign Large Value ETF segment, with alternatives such as the Vanguard International High Dividend Yield ETF (VYMI) and Schwab Fundamental International Equity ETF (FNDF) available [11][12]. - VYMI has $10.93 billion in assets and an expense ratio of 0.17%, while FNDF has $16.39 billion in assets with a 0.25% expense ratio [12].