Norwegian Buhund vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Norwegian Buhund and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Norwegian Buhund
Energetic, intelligent, and affectionate, this spitz breed thrives on companionship and activity. Always eager to please, it brings cheer and loyalty to any household.
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
Medium
14–18 kg
Double coat, weather-resistant
12–15 years
12–16 kg
High energy
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.
Norwegian Buhund
Affectionate with family and approachable with strangers
Quick learner and responds well to training
Very active and requires regular exercise
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various environments and routines
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
Norwegian Buhund
Hip dysplasia, cataracts
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Norwegian Buhund
Good option
Intelligent and eager, but may challenge inexperienced owners with their independence
Needs space
High energy and vocal nature can make small apartments challenging
Perfect match
Thrives with regular exercise and plenty of activities
Very suitable
Gentle and playful, usually patient with young children
Gets along well
Tends to be sociable with other pets if properly introduced
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone, prone to boredom and destructive behavior
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
Norwegian Buhund
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn
- Very energetic and playful
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Good watchdog with alert nature
- Generally healthy and robust breed
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
Norwegian Buhund
- Needs extensive daily physical exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Can be vocal and bark frequently
- May herd children or other pets
- Requires regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom
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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