Dogue de Bordeaux vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Dogue de Bordeaux and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Dogue de Bordeaux
Powerful yet affectionate, this loyal guardian forms deep bonds with family. Calm and steady, the Dogue de Bordeaux thrives as a devoted companion and protector.
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
50–68 kg
Short, fine
5–8 years
45–60 kg
Low activity needs
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.
Dogue de Bordeaux
Affectionate and loyal with family members
Learns commands but can be stubborn
Low activity needs, prefers calm environments
Enjoys gentle play, not overly boisterous
Adjusts moderately to new situations and homes
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
Dogue de Bordeaux
Hip dysplasia, heart disease
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Dogue de Bordeaux
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced handling and training
Not ideal
Large size and drooling make small spaces difficult
Moderately suitable
Enjoys moderate exercise but not highly energetic
Good with supervision
Typically gentle but size can overwhelm small children
Cautious pairing
May be dominant or territorial with other pets
Poor fit
Dislikes being left alone and prone to separation anxiety
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
Dogue de Bordeaux
- Loyal to family members
- Strong protective instincts
- Calm and gentle with children
- Responds well to consistent training
- Low grooming requirements
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
Dogue de Bordeaux
- Prone to drooling and snoring
- Short lifespan compared to other breeds
- Needs careful socialization with strangers
- Sensitive to heat and humidity
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
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
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience