Peruvian Hairless Dog vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Peruvian Hairless Dog and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Peruvian Hairless Dog
Elegant, affectionate, and alert, this ancient breed thrives as a loyal companion. Its hairless body and sensitive nature make it both striking and loving in the home.
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
8–12 kg
Hairless, smooth skin
12–14 years
7–11 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.
Peruvian Hairless Dog
Generally sociable but may be reserved with strangers
Learns quickly and responds well to training
Moderate activity needs, enjoys regular exercise
Occasionally playful, but not overly boisterous
Adapts well to various home 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
Peruvian Hairless Dog
Skin problems, dental issues
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Peruvian Hairless Dog
Moderately suitable
Sensitive and intelligent, but may need patient training from inexperienced owners
Good fit
Quiet and clean, adapts well to smaller living spaces with enough exercise
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular physical activity and will keep up with energetic routines
Use caution
Can be gentle but may not tolerate rough handling from very young children
Selective companion
May get along with other pets if socialized early, but can be wary
Not ideal
Strong attachment to people can cause stress when left alone for long periods
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
Peruvian Hairless Dog
- Loyal and strongly bonds with family
- Minimal shedding due to hairless coat
- May be hypoallergenic for some owners
- Intelligent and quick to learn commands
- Generally alert and makes a good watchdog
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
Peruvian Hairless Dog
- Sensitive skin requires sun protection
- Prone to dental issues from missing teeth
- Can be wary of strangers or new situations
- Needs regular moisturizing to prevent dry skin
- Sensitive to cold and temperature changes
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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