Norwegian Elkhound vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Norwegian Elkhound and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Norwegian Elkhound
Energetic and loyal, this spitz breed thrives on adventure and close companionship. Bold yet affectionate, it makes a spirited watchdog and a loving family friend.
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
23–27 kg
Double coat, dense
12–15 years
20–25 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 Elkhound
Outgoing with family, reserved around strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, needs regular activity
Enjoys games and interactive playtime
Adjusts moderately to new 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
Norwegian Elkhound
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Norwegian Elkhound
Challenging for novices
Needs consistent training and firm guidance to thrive
Not ideal
Requires ample space and regular exercise to prevent restlessness
Highly suitable
Energetic and enjoys active outdoor lifestyles with involved owners
Good companion
Playful and tolerant but supervision is needed with very young children
Usually compatible
Can coexist with other pets if socialized early and consistently
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop problem behaviors
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 Elkhound
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Excellent watchdog instincts
- High stamina for outdoor activities
- Good with children and other pets
- Thick coat provides weather resistance
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 Elkhound
- Strong prey drive can lead to chasing
- Can be independent and stubborn
- Needs consistent daily physical exercise
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
- May bark excessively without proper training
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