Old German Shepherd vs English Bulldog
Discover the differences between Old German Shepherd and English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Old German Shepherd
Loyal, intelligent, and steady, this breed thrives as both a capable working dog and a devoted companion. Renowned for their balanced nature and impressive endurance.
English Bulldog
Stocky, courageous, and affectionate, this breed charms with its wrinkled face and calm nature. Loyal and gentle, it thrives as a loving family companion.
Quick comparison
Large
30–40 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
10–13 years
25–35 kg
High energy
Medium
23–25 kg
Short, smooth
8–10 years
18–23 kg
Low activity needs
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Old German Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Learns commands and tasks very quickly
Needs daily exercise and mental activity
Enjoys games, but not overly excitable
Adjusts well to routine or environment changes
English Bulldog
Affectionate and gentle with family and children
Learns basic commands with some patience
Prefers lounging over vigorous physical activity
Enjoys play but tires fairly quickly
Adjusts well to most living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Old German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
English Bulldog
Brachycephalic syndrome, skin fold infections
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Old German Shepherd
Challenging for beginners
Requires experienced handling and consistent training
Not ideal
Needs space and regular exercise, not suited to confined spaces
Excellent match
Thrives with active owners who can provide daily physical activity
Good with supervision
Tolerant but may be too energetic for very young children without supervision
Usually compatible
Can adapt to other pets with proper socialization and training
Prone to separation anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods, may develop behavioral issues
English Bulldog
Good option
Easygoing, low-maintenance nature suits owners with limited dog experience
Excellent fit
Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor work well in small living spaces
Not ideal
Low stamina and breathing issues make them unsuited for high-activity lifestyles
Very suitable
Gentle, patient, and tolerant with young children when properly socialized
Usually compatible
Generally sociable but may need guidance with other pets, especially dogs
Not recommended
They struggle with long periods alone and are prone to separation anxiety
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Old German Shepherd
- Highly loyal to family members
- Strong protective instincts and natural guardians
- Excellent working and herding abilities
- Adaptable to various environments and tasks
- High intelligence and trainability
English Bulldog
- Affectionate with family members
- Generally good with children
- Low exercise requirements
- Minimal grooming needs
- Adaptable to apartment living
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Old German Shepherd
- Needs significant daily physical exercise
- Can be wary of unfamiliar people
- Thick coat requires regular grooming
- Prone to hip and joint issues
- May develop separation anxiety if left alone
English Bulldog
- Prone to respiratory problems
- High risk of overheating
- Susceptible to skin infections
- Can be stubborn during training
- Tends to drool frequently
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