Picardy Shepherd vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Picardy Shepherd and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Picardy Shepherd
Alert, loyal, and full of energy, the Picardy Shepherd thrives as an active companion. Its shaggy coat and affectionate spirit make it a standout family dog.
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
Large
28–32 kg
Harsh texture, medium length
10–13 years
23–27 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.
Picardy Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Learns quickly, responds well to training
Needs daily vigorous physical and mental activity
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to changes in environment
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
Picardy Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Picardy Shepherd
Challenging for novices
Needs experienced handler for training and socialization
Not suitable
Needs space and dislikes confinement in small areas
Excellent match
Thrives with active families who provide daily exercise and stimulation
Good fit
Generally gentle, but supervision is needed with very young children
Often compatible
Can coexist with other pets if properly socialized early
Not recommended
Dislikes long periods of isolation and may develop anxiety or destructiveness
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
Picardy Shepherd
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn
- Strong work ethic and stamina
- Excellent natural watchdog instincts
- Adaptable to various living environments
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
Picardy Shepherd
- Needs significant daily mental stimulation
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Requires regular coat grooming and maintenance
- May herd children or other animals
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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