Old German Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Old German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever 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.
Labrador Retriever
Eager, friendly, and intelligent, this breed loves being part of an active family. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them outstanding companions for all ages.
Quick comparison
Large
30–40 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
10–13 years
25–35 kg
High energy
Large
29–36 kg
Short double coat, water-resistant
10–12 years
25–32 kg
High energy
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
Labrador Retriever
Warm and sociable with people and animals
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts easily to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Old German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Labrador Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
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
Labrador Retriever
Great choice
Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.
Not ideal
Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.
Perfect fit
High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.
Highly suitable
Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.
Very friendly
Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.
Prone to anxiety
Extended alone time can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors in this breed.
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
Labrador Retriever
- Friendly and sociable with people and dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent with children and families
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
- Generally adaptable to various living situations
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
Labrador Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming
- May develop hip or elbow dysplasia
- Needs significant daily physical activity
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