German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are two of the most popular dog breeds.
In this short guide, we look to provide some differences between the two breeds for you to consider.
(NOTE: this is a general information guide only, and is not professional advice, or a substitute for professional advice. A qualified vet or animal expert is the only person qualified to give you expert advice in regards to your pet/s)
Should I Get A German Shepherd Or A Golden Retriever?
Summary
Overall, both breeds are popular for good reasons.
Golden Retrievers are probably a better dog for people who want a ‘people’s dog’ because of their friendliness and tendency to show love and affection/enthusiasm to basically everyone they meet.
German Shepherds can also make great family dogs and can also be very loving and loyal, but some may also have a tendency for aloofness with strangers and other dogs (they can make good guard dogs for this reason).
German Shepherds also come in the high drive East DDR and other lines that can make fantastic working dogs for different applications.
German Shepherds are therefore probably a more versatile breed.
It’s worth noting, even though each breed has a stereotype of what they are like, ultimately, each dog will offer something different based on their genetics, their parents, their individual personality and characteristics, and so on.
It’s very important to know as much as you can about the breeder, parents, and other littermates (as well as medical and other history and information) if buying from a breeder.
When adopting or rescuing, the shelter should have information on the general nature of the dog and any other information you need to be aware of. You might take the dog home for a test period (if the shelter or rescue allows it) to see if the dog is a fit for you and your lifestyle.
See a dog in person before you buy or adopt if you can.
Understand that a dog is usually a 10 to 15 year commitment – don’t bring one into your life unless you can give them the necessary care and they fit your living arrangement and lifestyle.
Types/Lines
German Shepherds
The reality is that the different lines of German Shepherds have diluted a fair bit throughout time – there are far less professional and serious breeders left in the world that actively look to breed for line based traits and features (although there are some very good ones).
Read more about the different German Shepherd lines in this guide.
Golden Retrievers
There are Canadian, British and US line Golden Retrievers.
Each one traditionally has small differences in their body structure/composition and coats (color and texture).
Appearance & Coat Colors
German Shepherds
Traditionally have a gold, black and cream coat. But, there are other colors such as black, white, sable and more.
German Shepherds are known by their ears that stand up and their athletic looking bodies, with a curved back (although some lines have a straighter back).
Golden Retrievers
Generally come in a gold/creamy color, but some goldens are darker (almost a browny color).
They tend to have floppy ears and curly tufts of fur on their chest and stomach in particular.
Size & Physical Traits
German Shepherds
A large sized dog
Can be anywhere from 1 foot 10 inches, to 2 foot 2 inches in height
Can be 75 to 95 lbs in weight
Can live 10 to 14 years
Source: https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/german-shepherd-dog#/slide/1
Golden Retrievers
A medium sized dog
Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally 21.5 to 22.5 inches tall and 55 to 65 pounds
Lifespan is generally 10 to 12 years
Source: https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/golden-retriever#/slide/1
Temperament
German Shepherds
German Shepherds can be wary of strangers, but tend to be incredibly loyal and obedient to their owner.
Having said that, some German Shepherds are incredibly loving and don’t have any of that aloof or standoffish nature that harder drive GSDs might have.
GSDs with more working drive can be very focussed, disciplined and obedient.
Golden Retrievers
Goldens tend to have an unbridled friendliness about them – essentially showering everyone they meet with love and affection.
Trainability
German Shepherds
Generally one of the smartest and most trainable dog breeds.
The working line GSDs are arguably the most obedient and trainable dogs in the world.
Golden Retrievers
One of the smarter breeds – should have no issues training and teaching obedience to.
Daily Care, Grooming & Exercise
German Shepherds
German Shepherds tend to shed a lot – particularly when they are blowing their coat.
Be ready for a lot of hair in your house if you don’t brush them regularly and vacuum.
German Shepherds do well with at least half hour to an hour’s worth of exercise a day.
Golden Retrievers
Very similar to German Shepherds – can shed a lot. So, be ready to brush and vacuum.
Also need half an hour to an hour’s worth of exercise a day.
Suitability As A Family Dog
German Shepherds
Can make fantastic family dogs that are very loyal and protective.
ALthough, make sure you get a GSD with a stable and not skittish or unstable temperament.
Golden Retrievers
Generally seen as one of the best family dogs along with Labradors.
Health Problems, Conditions & Concerns
German Shepherds
Hip and elbow dysplasia can be a common health problem to look for in GSDs – it’s why good breeders offer hip certifications.
Degenerative myelopathy can be another condition that occurs.
Read more on GSD health problems at http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/german-shepherd-dog#health
Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers might put on weight easily as they age or if they are fed too much – so this is something to watch out for.
Read more on Golden Retriever health problems at https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_golden_retriever
Cost To Buy Or Adopt
German Shepherds
Will be looking at anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars to buy.
The East DDR and other high pedigree GSDs can be very expensive when bought from the best breeders.
Golden Retrievers
One of the most expensive dog breeds in general.
Will generally cost at least in the hundreds, if not thousands of dollars for a healthy puppy.
With both breeds, when adopting, shelters or rescues need to charge a fee to cover their time and expenses, and also to screen out unsuitable owners.
Some guides for buying and adopting in general that might help you are:
Things To Consider When Adopting or Rescuing A German Shepherd
Where To Find A German Shepherd Rescue or Shelter Near You
What To Look For When Buying A German Shepherd Puppy: Ethical Step By Step Guide
Where To Find The Best German Shepherd Breeders Near You
Vet Costs & Ongoing Care Costs
Generally a similar cost for annual vet care, food, and other supplies.
German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
Read more in this guide about GSD Golden Retriever mixes.
Friendly Disclaimers
TheDailyShep.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.
Additionally, TheDailyShep.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links.
TheDailyShep.com are not veterinarians, or animal professionals/experts. Information provided is for informational purposes only – it is not a substitute for professional or qualified advice.
The information is based on either our own thorough research, and/or own experiences, as a means of free speech.
By consuming this information, you accept that TheDailyShep.com do not have client or patient relationship with you, and TheDailyShep.com are not advising you to act on anything you read.
You should always consult your own veterinarian, animal expert, or health care professional and follow their advice before making decisions on all matters.
You can find our full set of disclaimers and T & C’s in the footer of this site.
Enjoy your reading, and thank you for being here
','' ); } ?>