German Shepherd vs Golden Retriever
Side-by-side comparison of the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever — size, temperament, shedding, trainability, cost, and compatibility ratings.
Quick comparison
Best for families
Golden Retriever
Based on good-with-kids rating
Easier to train
German Shepherd
Based on trainability rating
Less shedding
German Shepherd
Based on shedding level
Better for apartments
German Shepherd
Based on apartment-friendly rating
Lower maintenance
German Shepherd
Based on grooming needs
Longer lifespan
Golden Retriever
Based on average lifespan
Detailed comparison
Physical traits
| Trait | German Shepherd | Golden Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Height | 22–26″ | 21.5–24″ |
| Weight | 50–90 lbs | 55–75 lbs |
| Lifespan | 7–10 yrs | 10–12 yrs |
| Group | Herding | Sporting |
| Coat type | Dense double coat, medium length | Double coat, long and wavy |
Temperament & behavior
| Trait | German Shepherd | Golden Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | Very High | High |
| Trainability | Very High | Very High |
| Barking level | Moderate | Moderate |
Compatibility
| Trait | German Shepherd | Golden Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Good with kids | High | Very High |
| Good with dogs | Moderate | Very High |
| Good with cats | Low | High |
| Apartment friendly | Low | Low |
Care requirements
| Trait | German Shepherd | Golden Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding | Very High | Very High |
| Grooming needs | Low | Moderate |
| Daily exercise | 60–120 min | 60–120 min |
| Daily food | 2.5–3.5 cups | 2–3 cups |
| Annual cost | $1 500–$2 600 | $1 500–$2 800 |
Temperament
German Shepherd
ConfidentCourageousSmart
Golden Retriever
IntelligentFriendlyDevoted
Common health issues
German Shepherd
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Bloat
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Golden Retriever
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Cataracts
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