Broholmer vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Broholmer and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds

Broholmer
Calm, loyal, and gentle, this large Danish breed thrives as a devoted family guardian. Imposing in size yet affectionate, it forms deep bonds with its people.

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
50–70 kg
Short, dense
8–10 years
40–60 kg
Moderately active
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.
Broholmer
Calm and gentle with family and children
Learns commands quickly, responds to training
Moderate activity needs, enjoys daily walks
Enjoys interactive play but not hyperactive
Adjusts well to calm home 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
Broholmer
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Broholmer
Needs experience
Their large size and guarding instincts can challenge inexperienced owners
Not suitable
Broholmers need space and may become restless in small apartments
Moderately suitable
They enjoy activity but are not overly energetic or demanding
Very family-friendly
Gentle and protective nature makes them good with young children
Generally compatible
Early socialization is needed for smooth multi-pet interactions
Not recommended
They dislike being left alone and may develop 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
Broholmer
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Calm and balanced temperament
- Good natural watchdog instincts
- Generally gentle with children
- Low grooming maintenance required
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
Broholmer
- Needs extensive socialization early
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- Can be stubborn during training
- Requires ample daily exercise
- May be wary of unfamiliar dogs
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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