Dachshund vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Dachshund and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Dachshund
Lively, clever, and bold, the Dachshund stands out with its unique long body and spirited personality. Loyal and playful, this breed thrives as a devoted family companion.
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
Small
7–15 kg
Smooth or wirehaired, dense
12–16 years
7–13 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.
Dachshund
Generally sociable, bonds well with family
Quick learner, responds well to training
Moderate activity, enjoys walks and play
Likes games, often entertains itself
Adjusts fairly well 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
Dachshund
Intervertebral disc disease, obesity
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Dachshund
Good option
Generally easy to train but may be stubborn at times
Excellent fit
Small size and moderate exercise needs suit apartment spaces
Not ideal
May tire quickly and is prone to back injuries with intense activity
Use caution
Can be snappy or impatient if mishandled by young children
Mixed results
May get along with pets but has a strong prey drive
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone and may develop separation anxiety
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
Dachshund
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Alert and makes a good watchdog
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Playful and entertaining personality
- Low grooming needs for smooth coats
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
Dachshund
- Prone to back injuries due to long spine
- Can be stubborn during training
- May bark excessively if not managed
- Requires careful handling to prevent injury
- Can be wary of strangers and other dogs
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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