Great Japanese Dog vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Great Japanese Dog and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Great Japanese Dog
A powerful, loyal breed with a calm presence and protective instincts. Makes a devoted family companion and is known for its dignified, confident demeanor.
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
45–59 kg
Double coat, dense
10–12 years
32–45 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.
Great Japanese Dog
Reserved with strangers, loyal to family members
Learns commands quickly, responds to training
Moderate activity needs, enjoys daily walks
Not highly playful, prefers calm activities
Adjusts to routine changes with some patience
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
Great Japanese Dog
Hip dysplasia, thyroid issues
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Great Japanese Dog
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced handling and firm training for best results
Not ideal
Large size and exercise needs make apartments unsuitable
Highly suitable
Enjoys vigorous activity and benefits from an active lifestyle
Use caution
May be too large and boisterous for small children
Needs supervision
May show dominance toward other pets without careful introduction
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone and can develop separation anxiety or destructive habits
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
Great Japanese Dog
- Loyal to family members
- Strong protective instincts
- Calm and dignified demeanor
- Good tolerance for cold weather
- Generally healthy with proper care
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
Great Japanese Dog
- Can be aloof with strangers
- Requires consistent, firm training
- High prey drive towards small animals
- Prone to dominance behaviors
- Needs ample daily exercise
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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