Azawakh vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Azawakh and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Azawakh
Lean and elegant, the Azawakh is an alert sighthound known for its loyalty and reserved nature. Agile and affectionate, this breed thrives with active owners who value companionship.
German Shepherd
Confident, loyal, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives as both a devoted family companion and a reliable working partner. Always alert and eager to learn, it adapts to many roles with ease.
Quick comparison
Large
20–25 kg
Short, fine
12–15 years
15–20 kg
High energy
Large
30–40 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
9–13 years
22–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Azawakh
Reserved with strangers, affectionate with family
Learns quickly, responsive to consistent training
High stamina, thrives on daily exercise
Not highly playful, prefers calm activity
Adapts moderately, prefers stable environments
German Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, highly trainable and alert
Needs regular activity and vigorous exercise
Enjoys games, interactive and engaging
Adjusts well to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Azawakh
Autoimmune disorders, bloat
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Azawakh
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced owners for training and socialization
Needs frequent exercise
May become bored or restless in small spaces
Excellent companion
Thrives with active people who enjoy outdoor activities
Not highly recommended
May be aloof or impatient with small children
Mixed compatibility
Can be wary with unfamiliar dogs and pets
Prone to separation anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods
German Shepherd
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced, consistent training and socialization
Not ideal
Needs space and frequent exercise to prevent boredom
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners who can provide daily physical and mental challenges
Highly suitable
Loyal and protective, can be gentle and patient with proper socialization
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if raised together and well socialized
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Azawakh
- Loyal to family members
- Naturally alert and watchful
- Athletic with high endurance levels
- Low grooming requirements
- Tolerates heat and dry climates well
German Shepherd
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent working and service dog abilities
- Protective instincts make them good guardians
- Adaptable to various training activities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Azawakh
- Aloof with strangers and visitors
- Sensitive to cold temperatures
- High prey drive toward small animals
- Needs ample daily exercise
- Can be stubborn during training
German Shepherd
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- High exercise needs require daily activity
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- May be wary of strangers without socialization
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
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