Pyrenean Mastiff vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Pyrenean Mastiff and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Pyrenean Mastiff
Gentle, loyal, and calm, this massive guardian thrives in family settings. Known for patience and devotion, the Pyrenean Mastiff forms strong bonds with loved ones.
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
70–100 kg
Dense double coat, straight
8–12 years
60–90 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.
Pyrenean Mastiff
Gentle and affectionate with family and children
Learns commands and routines with consistency
Calm, prefers lounging over vigorous activity
Enjoys gentle play but not overly rambunctious
Adjusts to change with patience and calmness
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
Pyrenean Mastiff
Hip dysplasia, entropion
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Pyrenean Mastiff
Challenging for novices
Their size and independence can overwhelm inexperienced owners
Not suitable
Large size and need for space make apartments uncomfortable
Moderately suitable
Enjoy outdoor activities but not extremely energetic
Great with children
Gentle and patient nature suits families with young kids
Usually compatible
Typically calm and can coexist with other pets when socialized early
Not recommended
Dislike being alone and may 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
Pyrenean Mastiff
- Gentle with children and family members
- Strong protective instincts against threats
- Tolerant of other household animals
- Calm and patient indoor temperament
- Adaptable to cold weather conditions
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
Pyrenean Mastiff
- Requires extensive space due to size
- Prone to stubborn or independent behavior
- Heavy seasonal shedding and grooming needs
- High food and maintenance costs
- May be wary of unfamiliar people
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