German Shepherd Dog vs Hovawart

German Shepherd Dog vs Hovawart: full comparison

Key differences at a glance

• The German Shepherd Dog has noticeably higher shedding than the Hovawart.

Size and living space

The German Shepherd Dog is a big, substantial dog that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. By comparison, the Hovawart is a big, substantial dog that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The German Shepherd Dog demands substantial daily activity, from long walks to hard play. The Hovawart demands substantial daily activity, from long walks to hard play. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The German Shepherd Dog requires frequent brushing and regular professional trims and sheds constantly and keeps the vacuum busy all year. The Hovawart wants brushing on a regular schedule to stay tidy and sheds moderately, with heavier blowouts as the seasons turn. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The German Shepherd Dog is highly intelligent and learns new commands remarkably fast, gives voice moderately, typically when something warrants it and is very good with children and makes a dependable family dog. The Hovawart is quick to learn and a pleasure to train, gives voice moderately, typically when something warrants it and is very good with children and makes a dependable family dog. On guarding instinct, German Shepherd Dog is a formidable natural guardian with a strong protective drive, whereas Hovawart is a formidable natural guardian with a strong protective drive.

Which is better for…

• For apartment or apartment living, German Shepherd Dog and Hovawart are an even match — either can work well.
• For families with young children, German Shepherd Dog and Hovawart are an even match — either can work well.
• For first-time dog owners, German Shepherd Dog has the edge, as it is easier to train and more forgiving of beginner mistakes.
• For being left alone during the workday, German Shepherd Dog and Hovawart are an even match — either can work well.
• For allergy sufferers, Hovawart has the edge, as it sheds less dander around the home.

Which should you choose?

Choose the German Shepherd Dog if you want an easier dog to train or you want a more adaptable dog.

Choose the Hovawart if you want less shedding around the home, you prefer lower grooming upkeep, or you want a longer-lived breed.

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