Leonberger vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Leonberger and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Leonberger
Massive, gentle, and loyal, the Leonberger stands out for its calm nature and impressive presence. This affectionate giant thrives as a devoted family companion and watchdog.
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
59–77 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
8–9 years
45–61 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.
Leonberger
Affectionate with family and gentle with children
Learns commands quickly and responds to training
Moderate exercise needs, not overly energetic
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to new people and 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
Leonberger
Hip dysplasia, osteosarcoma
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Leonberger
Challenging for beginners
Their size and training needs can overwhelm inexperienced owners
Not apartment suited
Large size and exercise needs make them a poor fit for apartments
Highly suitable
They enjoy regular activity and outdoor adventures with active families
Excellent companion
Gentle, patient temperament makes them reliable around young children
Generally compatible
Usually get along with other pets when socialized early
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
Leonberger
- Gentle with children and family members
- Strong swimming ability and water rescue skills
- Loyal and devoted to owners
- Calm and stable temperament in the home
- Good tolerance for cold weather
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
Leonberger
- Requires extensive grooming to manage shedding
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs significant daily exercise and space
- Shorter average lifespan compared to other breeds
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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